I don’t know about you, but I love this time of year! The flowers are blooming and the blistery cold of the winter is finally behind us. But Spring does have one downfall… allergies!
The flowers may be pretty to look at but that yellow pollen you see on your car can cause stuffy noses, itchy eyes, and other symptoms of seasonal allergies.
While you may not to be able to rely solely on natural remedies, try incorporating the following foods into your diet on a regular basis to help ease the pain of seasonal allergies and allow yourself to enjoy this lovely time of year!
Pineapple is a great source of bromelain, an enzyme that has anti-inflammatory effects. This helps to reduce nasal swelling, making it easier to breathe
Onions are rich in quercetin, a flavonoid that acts as a natural antihistamine. This blocks the production and release of histamines, compounds involved in the body’s allergic response, as well as inhibiting other allergic and inflammatory compounds.
Tumeric contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound that inhibits the release of histamine and inhibits allergic response, while also decreasing oxidative stress. Curcumin has also been shown to increase nasal airflow and support immune response in people with allergies. Combining turmeric with fat and black pepper increases its absorption and availability.
Kefir, a fermented milk product, contains probiotics that have been shown to treat seasonal allergies and enhance immune response. Other sources of probiotics include: yogurt, tempeh, natto, miso, dairy-free coconut kefir, and naturally processed sauerkraut.
Oranges are rich in Vitamin C which is a natural anti-histamine.
Don’t let allergies stop you from getting outside and enjoying all that Spring has to offer!
Submitted by Gretchen Skwer, RD, LDN, Athens Nutritionist
