TPP 508: Dr. Zachary Rubin on What Every Parent Should Understand About Allergies

Today we’re diving into the complex and often overwhelming world of allergies, asthma, and related conditions—and what it really takes to support kids (and families) living with them. My guest is Dr. Zachary Rubin, a double board-certified pediatrician and allergist/immunologist who’s known for making allergy science accessible and understandable to millions. He’s also the author of the new book, All About Allergies, which is a clear, compassionate guide to managing allergic diseases. In our conversation, Dr. Rubin breaks down how the immune system responds in different allergic scenarios, what’s behind the rise in things like pollen counts and food allergies, and how conditions like asthma fit into the bigger picture. We also talk about practical strategies for managing symptoms, supporting kids in everyday life, and reducing some of the stress and uncertainty that can come with allergies.   About Dr. Zachary Rubin Dr. Zachary Rubin is a double board-certified pediatrician and allergist/immunologist who practices at Oak Brook Allergists in the Chicago area. A nationally recognized medical educator and public health advocate, he shares evidence-based, accessible information on allergies, asthma, and public health with over 3 million followers under the handle @rubin_allergy. Dr. Rubin earned his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University, completed his pediatrics residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, and his allergy/immunology fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis. Outside of medicine, he enjoys swimming, hiking, golfing, hula hooping, and spending time with his wife, daughter, and three German Shepherds. All About Allergies is his first book, offering a clear, compassionate guide to managing allergic diseases.   Things you'll learn from this episode How allergies work in the body and how the immune system responds across different triggers and scenarios Why the connection between allergies and neurodivergence is gaining attention, despite ongoing research gaps How environmental changes, including climate factors, are contributing to rising allergy prevalence Why understanding diagnosis, prevention, and emergency planning is essential for managing food allergies How asthma functions as an allergic lung condition and what that means for long-term health Why addressing the emotional, social, and practical realities of living with allergies is key forsupporting kids and families Resources mentioned Dr. Zachary Rubin’s Substack All About Allergies: Everything You Need to Know About Asthma, Food Allergies, Hay Fever, and More by Zachary Rubin, MD Dr. Zachary Rubin on Instagram Dr. Zachary Rubin on Threads Dr. Zachary Rubin on Facebook Dr. Zachary Rubin on YouTube   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices