Hay-fever is a relatively common ailment afflicting many people each spring and summer.
It is an allergic reaction most commonly triggered by grass or tree pollen. When the allergen is inhaled, the immune system produces a histamine response resulting in some unfavourable physical symptoms. These include: runny nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, fatigue, cough, and sinus congestion.
Follow these nutritional tips to help strengthen your immune system and reduce your hay-fever symptoms:
Increase your intake of green tea and apples
They contain plant sterols, which are known to regulate the immune system and stabilise a histamine reaction.
Eat 2-4 portions of omega-3 rich fish weekly
A diet rich in omega 3 will be less prone to inflammation. Wild caught salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring are great sources. Almonds, flax and chia seeds are also good sources, but you will need to eat them in larger amounts.
Enhance your vitamin D levels Vitamin D helps to keep the immune system balanced and also has anti-inflammatory properties. If you aren’t exposed to sun, you might want to consider a good supplement.
Support your gut
As most of your immune system is located in the gut, make sure yours is in balance by taking a good quality probiotic.
By Naturopathic Nutritionist, Claire Clerkin for the College of Naturopathic Medicine
