- Written by Lia Threat
- Published in Wellness
Addressing Spring Allergies Naturally
Addressing Spring Allergies Naturally
By Lia Threat
Click aqui para español- > Tratar las alergias primaverales de forma natural
Spring is here. Now is time to enjoy the beautiful, breezy weather minus the humidity, but what about those with allergies? Time outside can be far from enjoyable for those with a susceptibility to seasonal allergies, especially when pollen is abundant. If that sounds like you, below are a few natural ways to counteract a flare-up.
Antihistamines are effective because they calm our body’s inflammatory histamine response. If one encounters an allergen such as pollen, it will cause the body to trigger the release of immune cells known as mast cells. Mast cells are responsible for initiating an inflammatory response and triggering the release of histamine. Sinus-related issues like itching, runny nose, sneezing, mucous secretions, and headaches will soon follow.
Thankfully, there are multiple ways to lower histamine levels in the body. A few are related to food and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
1. Lower the number of histamine-rich foods that you are consuming daily. Often, histamine-rich foods are also aged or fermented. Think alcohol, pickled foods, sauerkraut, aged cheeses, cured meats, and highly processed foods. As these foods age, histamine levels increase. Also, different levels of naturally occurring molds are present, which can also cause similar inflammatory responses in the body. Instead, opt for fresh fruits, meats, cheese, and be cautious of alcohol intake during periods when pollen counts are high.
2. If you are taking probiotics, consider one that does not contain histamine-producing bacteria, adding to your body’s histamine levels. Check out your probiotic label for strains such as Lactobacillus gasseri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium longum. Recent studies have shown these strains to help those with seasonal allergies.
3. Help screen what is getting in. Opt for a natural saline rinse to loosen mucous in the nasal passages. It is generally safe for adults and children to use without side effects and may even help prevent the adhesion of bacteria and viral pathogens.
4 Most weather stations issue high pollen counts, so check these out before venturing outdoors!
* As always, check with your doctor before adding anything to your routine, especially if you are taking medication.