If seasonal sneezes, sniffles and itches are making you miserable there may be some foods that help to ease the pain. Though they can’t take the place of medication in severe cases, there are certain ingredients that contain nutrients that can help boost your immune system and work on symptoms of allergies.
Itchiness, hives and discomfort associated with allergies are due to histamine. Vitamin C inhibits inflammatory cells from releasing histamine and helps it break down faster, providing relief from allergies. Vitamin C-rich food also eases symptoms by reducing inflammation and so counteracting the allergic response. Oranges, strawberries, kiwi, red peppers and watermelon are great foods to include.
Quercetin acts on mast cells that produce histamine, decreasing the amount of cells reacting to an allergen. It is particularly potent at fighting inflammation and providing allergy relief. Good sources include green tea, onions, apples, berries, cabbage and cauliflower.
The omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA found in mackerel, salmon, trout, tuna and sardines have been shown to reduce allergy symptoms. Walnuts and flaxseeds are great vegetarian sources of the anti-inflammatory Omega 3s.
Other important nutrients include Vitamins A and E, Enzymes, Magnesium and Selenium. Fermented foods rich in probiotics like bio-live yoghurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut and kimchi are great to include in your daily meal plan to help prevent seasonal allergies. Similarly, enzyme-rich raw unpasteurised apple cider vinegar should be taken daily to boost your immunity and keep symptoms at bay.