Seasonal allergies or hayfever otherwise known as allergic rhinitis causes cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy and watering eyes, sinus congestion and pressure, headaches and sneezing.
Melbourne feels like the capital of the world when it comes to hayfever and allergy symptoms due to our wind patterns and the types of grasses that grow in and around Melbourne.
However, not all of us experience hayfever symptoms and why is that?
Allergies come from overactivity of the immune system and the immune system is controlled by the bacteria, otherwise known as our gut microbiome that live within the large intestine, so it makes sense that the healthier your digestive system is and in particular your microbiome, the healthier your immune system is!
So what do we use to reduce allergy symptoms?
Vitamin D - Vitamin D supports the immune function and also the digestive system. Vitamin D supports the gut microbiota, improves the function of intestinal and gut barrier and improves immune responses.
Heal the gut - This is very individualised aspect as everyone is a little bit different. However with professional guidance, we aim to reduce inflammatory foods, and increase anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, oily fish, fruits and vegetables. Nutritional supplementation and herbal support is also important here as a part of the healing of the mucosal lining of the intestine.
Quercetin - Quercetin is a phytonutrient found in a range of fruit and vegetables that is a natural antihistamine that is often used to reduce allergy symptoms. Foods that are naturally higher include: grapefruit, onions, apples, black tea, leafy green vegetables and beans.
Anti-allergy herbs - sometimes we need to give the immune system some extra support to down regulate mast cells (immune cells that release histamine) and other cells involved in the allergy response. These herbs are usually used in combination with immune regulating herbs and herbs to support the gut healing process.
Zinc - zinc is a nutrient that not only works within the digestive system but also the immune system. Zinc supports intestinal lining healing and support immune function. Zinc rich foods include: grass-fed bee, oysters, pumpkin seeds, lentils and cashews.
Probiotics - probiotics can alter the gut microbiota temporarily to address the imbalances and to reduce immune system symptoms. Certain strains of probiotics can also assist in supporting the gut healing process.
Reducing seasonal allergy symptoms can be challenging and a little overwhelming and involves working on multiple symptoms at the same time.
Interested in being allergy free through spring? Book a FREE 15 minute chat to discuss how your symptoms can be supported HERE otherwise if you are feeling confident that we need to get on with it - Bookings can be made HERE!