About 25 percent of Canadians suffer from allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as seasonal allergies or hay fever. Environmental triggers that bring about seasonal allergies are grass, pollen and mold. Seasonal allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to something (i.e. grass, pollen and mold) that would typically not effect the average person. This immune response causes symptoms like nasal congestion, burning/itching eyes and excessive sneezing. Keeping your immune system strong and robust is a key factor in surviving allergy season; luckily there are many ways to do this. We'll provide diet, supplementation and lifestyle related tips to help you thrive throughout the whole year!

 

Try these supplements

 

Quercetin

Histamine is produced during an allergic response and causes inflammation. Quercetin is a powerful natural antihistamine that can reduce inflammation and symptoms associated with seasonal allergies.

Vitamin C

We have all heard that vitamin C is important when suffering with a cold or flu, and that is because this vitamin promotes immune health. Like quercetin it is also a natural antihistamine.

Astragalus

Astragalus is known for its ability to protect and support the immune system. It has been shown to reduce symptoms in people who suffer from seasonal allergies.

Probiotics

The beneficial bacteria in probiotic supplements help to support digestion. As humans we are more bacteria than we are human cells, making friendly gut bacteria a crucial aspects of living a healthy life. Our gut bacteria is also directly linked to our immune function.

 

Eat and drink more of this

 

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is one of the best sources of vitamin C, a vitamin that we mentioned earlier is important for promoting immune health. Add lemon juice to water and enjoy first thing in the morning.

Turmeric

Turmeric is also referred to as curcumin, the active ingredient extracted from turmeric root. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory that sooths inflammation throughout the body that can worsen allergy symptoms.

Bee Pollen + Raw Honey

The key to this tip is to purchase locally produced honey or pollen. There is some evidence to support that the consumption of raw honey can improve symptoms of seasonal allergies in some people(source). Raw honey is also anti-bacterial and therefore can help to protect the immune system. To learn more about this super-food, see our previous post on the benefits of raw honey.

Water

This one is simple, drink more water! When we are properly hydrated our air passages stay moist. When we are not, more mucus is produced to protect these areas, leaving us more prone to congestion. 

Kimchi

Consuming more of this fermented cabbage dish will not only liven up you dinner plate but also provides beneficial bacteria, like those found in probiotics. Kimchi contains chili pepper, making it fantastic for blood circulation, which will support healthy immune function by allowing nutrients and white blood cells to travel efficiently.

 

Make a few lifestyle changes 

 

Nasal Irrigation

Using a Neti Pot and salt solution to flush nasal passages will help to clear sinuses and decrease congestion. It can also help to flush allergens from the nostrils and sinuses before you immune system has the opportunity to react. 

Essential Oils

Breathing in essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus can help to open sinuses and improve circulation. Add a few drops to an oil diffuser within your home. 

Air Purification

Using an air purifier in your home will help to remove pollen from the air and improve your breathing quality while reducing overall symptoms.