Can seasonal allergies improve?
Seasonal allergies affect many of us and unfortunately they appear to be on the rise. The classic symptoms like sneezing and watery eyes are just the beginning - fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mood disorders can also be attributed to underlying allergens. It seems that our immune systems may not be as healthy as they once were. So what’s really the deal with allergies and can we keep them at bay?
Where allergies come from
Allergic reactions occur when your immune system identifies a substance that you have ingested or touched as dangerous. This causes the body to release a compound called histamine to defend against the potential allergen and it in turn produces allergy symptoms. If you deal with allergies, you know all too well the impact such symptoms can have on your life. Yet, it’s simply the body’s way of removing or obstructing substances that are deemed irritating or toxic.
There are several factors that contribute to the prevalence of allergens and reduced immune function. A connection has been made between many of the conditions listed and the gut. After all, nearly 70% of the immune system is located in the gut and it’s greatly affected by a person’s environment, diet and lifestyle. The Western diet in particular is often cited as a huge contributor to the rise of these conditions because it disrupts the balance of healthy gut bacteria.
Alcohol consumption, antibiotic use and stress levels play a huge role in depleting the beneficial bacteria in our gut. Fast food which is high in sugar and unhealthy fats can also make us more vulnerable. Gluten consumption is said to result in damage to the intestinal lining, even if you aren’t coeliac or have a gluten sensitivity. It’s the mixture of different proteins found in gluten which can wreak havoc. Then there’s the other major dietary allergens: dairy, soy, wheat, fish, peanuts and artificial colours and flavourings. Not to mention the increase of toxins being used in personal care, clothing, cleaning products and food. We may not be aware of it but we’re increasingly being exposed to synthetic fragrances and toxins such as formaldehyde. Those toxins alongside the pesticides and herbicides used in food can all make us more susceptible to developing allergies and each has a major impact on the allergy epidemic.
Overcoming seasonal allergies
Removing toxic chemicals from your home, choosing clothing of organic and natural fibres, and eating the right foods can all play a part. There are many foods that are said to improve seasonal allergies such as nuts and seeds (if you aren’t allergic of course!). Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant known as a flavonoid. When taken before allergy season, it can assist with reducing your symptoms and repairing the mucosal lining. It helps to regulate your body’s histamine response which can reduce inflammation. You can introduce anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, ginger, chia seeds, brassicas, strawberries and green tea. Fermented foods and probiotics are also beneficial for creating a healthy gut in order to make you less vulnerable to allergies.
Addressing the root causes of any allergy will help you make the necessary lifestyle changes to potentially improve your symptoms. Always seek the advice of a nutritionist, doctor or healthcare professional to help you in your path.