Change of seasons usually means better weather but all the blooms can pose quite a problem for many of us suffering with allergies! There are many different approaches from shots to medications, but for many that are looking for a more natural way, there are several alternatives.
One of the best things to do from a food perspective is to eliminate or significantly lower sugar, dairy and grain carbohydrates. These foods instigate an insulin release which in turn causes production of inflammation and can exacerbate allergies. Unfortunately even fruit and whole complex grains like stone ground whole wheat bread and brown rice can do this to some extent. It is recommended to stick to vegetable sources of carbohydrates as those break down the slowest thus causing the least insulin to be released.
For breakfast, instead of doing an egg sandwich, try making a delicious omelet and stuff in a bell pepper. It will still feel like a sandwich but without the effects of the bread. If you normally have bread with your salad, try adding it lentils or black beans, those carbohydrates are very filling and usually take away the craving for having bread. For dinner, start with a protein (fish, chicken, turkey) and add a non starchy vegetable of your choice. (Corn and carrots do not count as non starchy!) Limit your fruit intake to 1 serving per day of berries or a green apple.
This type of diet has proven very helpful with allergies and while it could be a little challenging if you are not used to it, you don’t have to eat this way forever. Just do it for 4-6 weeks during allergy season to minimize symptoms.
In addition to changing the diet, there are some natural anti-histamines that work as well or even better than medications.
One product that I use the most in the practice is D-Hist which combines natural potent ingredients for allergy relief that is fast acting and does not cause any drowsiness!
The formulation includes:
Quercetin-Naturally found in onions, quercetin stabilizes the cells that produce histamines and has been shown to inhibit compounds that typically affect sinus and respiratory health.
Stinging Nettles Leaf-Studies have shown that stinging nettles have demonstrated both promising mechanisms and clinical results for supporting nasal passageway health.
Bromelain-A strong pineapple enzyme, bromelain supports normal mucosal tissue function and enhances the absorption of quercetin.
N-Aceyl Cysteine (NAC)– An amino acid that reduces the viscosity of mucus.
While each of these nutrients can be effective for allergies, their combination is what makes this formulation such a success.
There is normally a loading dose of 2 capsules 3 times per day in between meals for the first 10 days and recommended right before or as allergy season starts. After the loading dose is complete, 1-2 capsules per day are taken as needed. Because these are pure ingredients, D-Hist can be used long term and there are no side effects and no interactions with other nutrients or medications.