We could not be happier that summer is here, but our sinuses are not thrilled. If you’re suffering from sneezing or itchy eyes, editor Trudi Brewer says you’re not alone. Read on to find out how to support summer allergen wellness - naturally.
Image Instagram
The thrill of summer weather can be stifled by itching, sneezing and nasal congestion. Naturopath Jane Cronin from Clinicians believes “Normally harmless pollen, when inhaled, leads to unbalanced histamine levels in susceptible people. This can lead to all the irritations we associate with allergen reactions that make it hard to breathe easy in summer and affect many people and families. Here’s how to support those symptoms and allergen issues naturally.
Increase vitamin C
You may think boosting your vitamin C intake is a winter ritual, but Cronin says, “Studies have shown that vitamin C can support the body to maintain balanced histamine levels, which can be helpful in the summer months too.” According to Cronin, vitamin C works by supporting the cell walls, so that the histamine is not so readily released. Since vitamin C cannot be made in the body, maintaining healthy levels requires us to consume it all year, including summer. As far as your diet goes, nature has provided us with some great vitamin c sources in fruits, such as berries and kiwifruit.
Clinicians Hi-Dose Vit C Sachets, RRP $34.99
Avoid irritating foods
“Certain foods can lead to the immune system being out of balance making individuals more susceptible to allergens,” Cronin says the common culprits are gluten and dairy. Who knew? Try excluding one food at a time for a week and see if symptoms improve. Improving the strength of the digestive system can also be helpful when doing this.” Cronin says, taking probiotics may also be helpful.
Clinicians MultiFlora Capsules 60s, RRP $49.99
Boost your body with turmeric and omega-3 oils
Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, combined with omega-3 oils can help get your skin, glowing and Cronin says both these ingredients can also help with allergen reactions. “They work by supporting the immune system balance and would be best taken on a daily basis. They can support the tissues in the upper respiratory area encouraging the body’s natural defences for normal clear nasal passages.” Cram your diet with good sources of omega-3, such as fish and seafood or flaxseeds for vegetarians. “These diet and lifestyle changes are great to try and manage the body’s natural response to allergens.” However, Cronin says there may be times when we’re caught out and need some immediate support for allergen reactions with supplements.
