I hear many people remarking about allergies this year. Did you know eating certain foods can help our bodies fight offending allergens? Our gut health is tied to our reaction to allergens. Some foods can help desensitize our bodies so we aren’t as susceptible to allergens.
Foods can even go one step further by helping our bodies heal from the effects of these allergens. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, consider grabbing these at the local farmer’s market or putting them in your grocery cart on your next trip!
Apples, Berries, Red Grapes: These contain quercetin which can reduce allergic reactions by having an antihistamine effect and decreasing inflammation. Quercetin is also found in red onions, capers, and black tea, and in high-quality supplements. Ask us! We have one!
Carrots, Apricots, Sweet Potato, Spinach: Carotenoids are in these veggies and fruits, and are helpful in fighting inflammation in your airways. Other good sources of carotenoids include pumpkin, butternut squash, kale and collard greens.
Omega-3s: Omega-3 essential fatty acids help to quell inflammation in our airways. Good natural sources include flaxseed oil, salmon, and other cold-water fish, like sardines and herring. You can get omega-3 supplements, too – just be sure they are high quality. Ask us! We have them!
Yogurt: Helps to ease environmental allergic systems, according to a study from UC San Diego School of Medicine. Of course, this is good quality, preferably organic, plain yogurt – not the ubiquitous pre-flavored, sugar laden yogurt found in most grocery stores. Add your own fruit, raisins, nuts, and a natural sweetener, like stevia or a small amount of honey.
Fiber: Again, back to a healthy gut, if your colon is healthy and active, it helps your immune system perform, and this can reduce the impact of seasonal allergies. The simplest way to increase the function of your colon is to increase the fiber in your diet. Eat more fruits and veggies, and consider supplementing with a fiber powder or capsule – especially during allergy season. Ask us! We have these!
Ginger: Ginger is a natural antihistamine and decongestant. Use an organic powdered form and sprinkle it on your foods, or buy ginger root, peel it, and add pieces to tea, brown rice, soups, etc.
To Your Vitality….and not Your Sneezing! Call us if you need some of the supplements mentioned here. Happy to help.
Source: Batbayar Damdin, Dipl. Ac., L.Ac. If you’d like to learn more about how acupuncture can help with your seasonal allergies, contact Batbayar Damdin at www.harrisburgacupuncture.com or 717-545-2544.
