Supplements May Be One Answer to Your Raging Allergies
Allergies can come on suddenly for any number of reasons, whether it’s the weather, the season, or another common cause. People who experience allergies often turn to over-the-counter medications, shots and antihistamines, and much of the time they either don’t work – or the body becomes used to such remedies and the allergy response persists. Some medications also come with side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and mood swings, and can make many people feel unwell.
Fortunately, there are natural approaches for allergies, as well as supplements for allergies that can help to relieve symptoms, no matter the cause. This guide will help those who suffer with allergies understand the causes and symptoms to look out for, as well as supplements, home remedies and other lifestyle changes that can help deliver effective relief.
7 Causes of Allergies
There are many different things that can contribute to allergies, and certain allergens can affect people in various ways, so it may sometimes be difficult to determine the true cause. Common causes include:
- Pet dander
- Foods
- Drugs
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Insects
Allergies are caused by the immune system’s reaction to specific allergens such as these. These triggers cause inflammation and symptoms that can be anything from a minor irritation to a serious, life-threatening emergency, and they can affect your airways, sinuses and nasal passages, as well as the skin and digestive system.
It is important to take note of not only the allergy symptoms, but also when they occur, to determine what the cause might be. Note: people who are experiencing severe allergy symptoms should consult with a medical professional.
5 Effective Supplements for Allergies
There are many ways to address allergies, including using supplements. Avoiding triggers will limit the possibility of experiencing allergies, but certain allergens are unavoidable, and supplements can help. Some effective options for allergies include:
1. Allercide
This antihistamine supplement contains powerful ingredients to help allergy sufferers build up their defense systems. The natural ingredients also act as antihistamines to help prevent or eliminate allergy symptoms. This supplement includes:
- Vitamin C – helps boost the immune system and helps to dry up the nasal passages
- Stinging nettle – helps moderate the allergic response and acts as an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine
- Quercetin – helps inhibit histamine release and reduce allergy symptoms
- Bromelain – an enzyme extracted from pineapple that helps reduce swelling and promote healthy respiratory function
- NAC (N-Acetyl L-Cysteine) – an amino acid that helps to thin mucus
2. Allergy Support Plus
This comprehensive formula contains vitamins, minerals, herbs and other supportive nutrients, including turmeric. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help reduce the swelling and irritation brought on by allergies. All of these natural ingredients can be effective for minor to severe allergies, including for those who suffer during hay fever season.
3. Herbal Nasal Spray
A nasal spray is a great way to provide moisture and soothing relief for nasal passages. It can help with allergy symptoms, as well as discomfort from exposure to pollution, pollen, smoke, dry air and chronic irritation. This nasal spray contains Himalayan salt, which works to relieve inflammation in the mucus membrane, and aso has aloe vera, saline and berberis aquifolium.
4. Probiotic
Adding a daily probiotic can help support gut health, which is directly related to the immune responses that cause inflammation due to allergens. Restoring a proper balance of bacteria in the GI tract with probiotics can not only help with allergy symptoms, but it can also help promote overall health and wellness for your gut and the other functions of the body.
5. Vitamin D
Research studies have shown that vitamin D supplements can help reduce allergy symptoms and promote immune function. Vitamin D may also help prevent certain inflammatory conditions, such as asthma and eczema. Researchers have found that 41% of the American population suffers from a vitamin D deficiency. Adding a supplement to your diet can help with allergy relief and has many other benefits.
Taking some of these supplements for allergies at the onset of symptoms can help provide relief. Supplements can help reduce inflammation and irritation brought on by allergens, as well as support immune and respiratory health. Remember to consult with a medical professional before starting new supplements.
Diet, Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Allergies
Some lifestyle factors and home remedies can also help to provide relief for allergy symptoms. Those who experience allergic reactions can try these suggestions, in addition to supplements:
1. Diet
In general, eating an anti-inflammatory and whole foods diet is beneficial to most people, although dietary choices may be very individualized, depending on needs. That said, certain foods can promote wellness and allergy relief by having effects such as boosting immune function and reducing inflammation. Some of these include:
- Ginger – Ginger is antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and reduces the production of pro-inflammatory proteins that can lead to allergy symptoms.
- Bee pollen and local honey – Bee pollen and honey have anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent allergic reactions. Eating locally-sourced bee pollen and honey can help combat pollen-related allergies over time by introducing the body in small daily doses to what is causing the allergy issues to begin with.
- Citrus fruits and tomatoes – The high amount of vitamin C in citrus and tomatoes can help to support the immune system and decrease allergy symptoms, particularly irritation in the upper respiratory tract. Tomatoes also contain antioxidant compounds that help to reduce systemic inflammation, which can contribute to allergy symptoms.
- Salmon and other oily fish – The fatty acids and omega-3s found in oily fish can help decrease the narrowed airways that occur in asthma and seasonal allergies.
- Onions – Onions contain quercetin, a natural antihistamine, which can help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. Onions also contain additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, as well as prebiotics that promote gut health and immunity.
2. Essential Oils and Steam
Using steam and essential oils can help flush out mucus and provide moisture to dry nasal passages. Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and frankincense, provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that work to reduce allergy symptoms, particularly when added to hot steam or diffused.
3. HEPA Filters
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can trap allergens and airborne irritants, like pet dander and dust, that can contribute to allergic reactions. HEPA filters can easily be installed in your heating, ventilation or AC systems, and they work throughout the day and night to help keep your air clean.
4. Hypoallergenic Bedding
Bedding can be the perfect home for dust mites, mold and pet dander. It’s important to regularly wash your bedding, preferably in hot water on a weekly basis, but you can take further precautions by investing in hypoallergenic bedding that can help prevent these allergens from accumulating. Hypoallergenic bedding is less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it a good solution for people who are sensitive and allergy-prone.
These tips and home remedies for allergies can help you manage uncomfortable allergy symptoms. Working with environmental and lifestyle factors can make a difference for your allergies, as well as promote proper immune function and respiratory health.
Experts Can Help You Tackle Your Allergies With Supplements
The Village Green Apothecary team of pharmacists, naturopathic doctors, clinical herbalists and nutritionists is available to discuss natural approaches to address your allergy symptoms. We are here to help you meet your health and wellness goals! To learn more, contact Village Green Apothecary to speak with an expert regarding diet, supplements and lifestyle support for allergies.Categories
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