The grass is growing and trees are budding. If you are sneezing, wheezing, coughing, and have red itchy eyes you could have seasonal allergies.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, seasonal allergies affect more than 50 million Americans.
Seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) occur when the body’s immune system reacts to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. It can also be triggered by undetected food allergies or sensitivities. This is called Oral Allergy Syndrome. Researchers identified proteins in certain foods that are similar to the allergy-provoking protein in the pollen.
These food proteins trigger histamine release just like the pollen, resulting in allergy symptoms. Depending on the pollen you are allergic to, you may need to avoid certain foods during allergy season.
Allergic rhinitis is a sign of a malfunctioning immune system, so you need to build the immune system by eating a healthy diet. Avoid inflammatory foods including sugar and sweets, processed foods, alcohol, and dairy foods if you are sensitive to dairy.
There are also foods that reduce histamine, inflammation or mucus production.
Here are some food, liquids, and supplements that can help.
Water – drink at least eight glasses daily during allergy season. If the body is well-hydrated less histamine will be released.
Green tea – anti-inflammatory and reduces allergic reactions. Drink 3-4 cups.
Local honey – andomized controlled study Inter Archives of Allergy & Immunology found local honey reduces allergies because it de-sensitizes immune system to the pollen. 1-2 Tbsp. daily.
Broth (soup) – chicken, beef, lamb, eases respiratory symptoms & mucus, reduces inflammation and boosts immunity, drink daily.
Plain kefir or yogurt – University of California Davis found people who ate yogurt with live active cultures every day had significantly less hay fever. The bacteria boosts production of gamma interferon to fight allergic reactions (it may take 3 months to build up cultures).
Probiotic – build strong immune system, reduce inflammation. e.g. kimchi, sauerkraut
Apple Cider Vinegar – boost immune system, reduce mucus, lymph drainage. 3 Tbsp. daily (best to mix 1 T ACV + 1 T lemon juice + 1/2 T local honey)
Fish – eat fatty fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, trout since omega-3 fat reduces inflammation or take fish oil.
Capsaicin – hot peppers reduce inflammation, nasal allergy symptoms & clear mucus.
Tumeric – Natively found in many Indian food dishes. Or, pills can also help reduce inflammation.
