By Schuyler Corrigan

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May 22, 2023

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Spring can be a challenging season for those suffering from seasonal allergies. The onset of environmental allergies is high as flowers, trees, and grasses are coming back to life, and we are also getting outside more and more as the weather warms. It is not uncommon for adults to develop seasonal allergies to pollen, grasses, or other environmental triggers throughout their lifetime, often changing from location to location. Some cities are far less prone to heavy seasonal allergies than others, and some seasons even in moderate climates may be unpredictably rough for spring allergies. In fact, Richmond, VA has been named one of the top 5 most challenging cities to live in for seasonal allergies. 

 

Allergies are essentially the response of a reactive and unbalanced immune system which, sensing an “invader,” goes into overdrive trying to destroy it. The reason we end up with allergy symptoms, like a runny nose and itchy watery eyes is usually due to high levels of histamine in the body. Histamine is released from immune cells that try to protect the body from foreign invaders. When our allergy response is high, our immune system is also operating on a heightened level which is fatiguing for the body to deal with on a daily basis. 

 

To improve our response to allergies, we must first “stabilize” these immune cells so they are not so quick to release histamine. In addition, we can work to balance the immune system as a whole, so the body is less reactive and more able to tolerate exposure to allergens without having a negative response

 

While these responses are heightened, we want to actively try to reduce excess inflammation or stress in our bodies. One way to do this is by paying attention to our daily diets. Avoid your known food sensitivities to reduce inflammation especially during the high pollen season. Some common aggravating foods when it comes to allergies include dairy, wheat, chocolate, egg, soy, citrus, peanut, pork, trans-fats, and chemical additives. Aim to eat whole, fresh foods like organic produce and high-quality proteins and fats each day. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water as well.

 

Read More: Benefits of Air Purifiers in Spring

Thinking Ahead: Practicing Allergy Prevention

Prevention is one of the foundational principles of Naturopathic Medicine. We work with nutrition, lifestyle, stress management, and mindfulness to predict and address certain health challenges. When it comes to allergy prevention, your naturopathic doctor may suggest some of these options:

 

Include an air purifier in your home, office, and/or bedroom. These can make a dramatic difference in your response to spring allergies when your home is a refuge from the outdoors during peak allergy times. 

 

Add flavonoid-rich foods (known as ‘bioflavonoids’), such as quercetin, which are the compounds rich in color that are found in certain fruits and vegetables. They act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in the body, helping to both mitigate damage from chronic inflammation and also preventing further inflammation. Quercetin also works as a stabilizer of cells that release histamine (i.e. it can reduce histamine released in the body), so for particularly helpful with seasonal allergies. For some people they may benefit from quercetin-rich foods include onions, apples, green tea, parsley, sage, grapes, dark berries (blueberry, blackberry), and dark cherries. You can also supplement with quercetin – usually, 1500mg/day for adults is adequate.

 

Some individuals may also want to consider taking 1 teaspoon of raw, local honey every day throughout the year and/or a good amount of the herb nettles (as a tea or freeze-dried in capsules) during problem months, or for at least 1 month prior to allergy season to prevent or reduce the onset of allergic symptoms. Each person is different and thus the approach may need to be even more person specific. 

 

Read More: Top 4 Herbs for Allergy Relief 

Recipe: Overnight Nettle Infusion

Take a 1-pint mason jar and add 4 tablespoons of dried nettle leaves. Cover with room temperature filtered water and fill to the brim of the jar. Seal with a tight-fitting lid and give it a good shake. Let sit overnight to infuse. In the morning, strain out the nettle and sip throughout the day for allergy support. Add a squeeze of lemon or a bit of honey to taste.

To get personalized recommendations for your seasonal allergies, request an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors. There is no single way to support allergies, find out what your body needs to get through peak allergy season. Call our office for more information or if you have questions, (804) 977-2634.

 

https://www.nbc12.com/2022/03/06/richmond-ranked-4th-most-challenging-city-live-seasonal-allergy-sufferers