By Jane Cronin, Naturopath
Warmer summer weather is fast approaching, but your enjoyment may be ruined by airborne allergens. This commences in early spring, triggered by new blossom and high pollen-bearing plants like pine, birch, privet and olive trees, to name a few common culprits. When inhaled, normally harmless pollen creates unbalanced histamine levels in susceptible people that can lead to unpleasant reactions.
Allergens affect many families. Is there anything you can do with your diet and lifestyle to manage this overreaction?
Increase vitamin C
Studies show that vitamin C can support your body to maintain balanced histamine levels, which can be helpful in the summer months. Vitamin C works by strengthening cell walls so the histamine is not so readily released. Since vitamin C cannot be made in your body, maintaining healthy levels requires you to consume it. In summer, nature has provided some great vitamin C sources in fruits such as berries and kiwifruit.
Avoid irritating foods
Certain foods can lead to your immune system being out of balance, making individuals more susceptible to allergens. Common culprits are gluten and dairy, so try excluding one food at a time for a week and see if symptoms improve. Improving the strength of your digestive system can also be helpful when doing this, so taking probiotics may be helpful.
Turmeric and omega 3 oils
These substances are shown to support reactions to allergens. They work by supporting your immune system balance, and are best taken on a daily basis. They support the tissues in your upper respiratory area which encourages your body’s natural defences for normal, clear nasal passages. Good sources of omega 3 include fish and seafood or flaxseeds for vegetarians.
These diet and lifestyle changes are great to try and manage your body’s natural response to allergens. However, there may be times when you are caught out and need immediate support.
This is where Clinicians AllerStop can help. AllerStop are pleasant-tasting, chewable tablets that can be taken at the first sign of irritation, with no water required. They are naturally made of quail egg proteins that are shown to form a barrier in your nasal membranes to stop allergens from affecting your tissues when inhaled.
AllerStop tablets provide a fast-acting response, generally within 15 minutes of chewing two tablets. They are suitable to take when pregnant or breastfeeding, and for children three years and over.
Always read the label and take as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Douglas Pharmaceuticals Limited, Auckland.
