Are you experiencing the familiar symptoms of a runny nose, itchy & watery eyes, irritated throat & skin and asthma? Did you know most of these symptoms are due to an overactive immune system releasing a host of chemicals, most commonly called histamines, to try and fight off those pesky grasses, pollens, dust, dust mite etc.

There are many nutrients that can help reduce an overactive immune system. By integration these into your diet, you will prepare your body for the effects of pesky hayfever! 

HERE ARE MY TOP TIPS FOR NATURAL REMEDIES FOR HAYFEVER:

ProbioticsProbiotics have received a lot of praise over the last few years, and with good reason. Did you know that each specific strain of probiotic is specific for a different condition?

I like to explain it like this: we need to look at probiotics the same way we look at vitamins, nutrients and supplements. We all know that vitamin C is good for the immune system, but it wouldn’t be the first thing recommended when you have a sore tooth. Probiotics are the same. Each strain plays a certain role in the gut and research is now finding that probiotics are strain-specific for a huge range of disorders, including hay fever, which on a surface level, doesn’t appear to be linked to the gut.

The probiotic most specific for hay fever is nicknamed LGG, or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. LGG helps to moderate an overactive immune response and restore immune control.

1. Zinc

Zinc is a natural anti-histamine. Good doses of zinc can be found in foods such as pecans, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, split peas, greens peas, buckwheat and black pepper.

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is another anti-histamine and great for your immune system. Look out for red foods as these tend to be highest in Vit C: red capsicum, red cabbage, strawberries and persimmons. You can also find a good dose of zinc in green, leafy foods: parsley, kale, broccoli, brussel sprouts, spinach, green onions and kiwi fruit.

1. Quercetin

A potent flavonoid (phytonutrients that give fruit and vegetables their colour), quercetin inhibits the release of histamine and supports the immune system. Increase the following foods to increase your quercetin intake: onions, broccoli, apples, blueberries, green tea and kale.

Other foods that can help decongest the nose are garlic, onion and horseradish. I recommended adding these to your cooked meals to assist during your hay fever symptoms.

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My other recommendation? A naturopathy consult with me! Let’s look at all the factors that are effecting your health and your body’s wellbeing to get you bright and feeling good, no matter the season.