If you’re looking for a more natural solution to your seasonal allergies, take a look in your kitchen! Some of the most common foods contain natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Over time, these may help you manage your allergy symptoms naturally…
Which foods fight allergies?
Allergy fighting foods are often the foods we already know are good for us! Fresh fruit and vegetables full of vitamins and antioxidants, healthy fats and the rising star of nutrition - bioflavonoids.
Which specific foods, and how do they help?
- Citrus Fruits – Citrus fruits are super allergy fighters because they contain Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, which are both natural antihistamines that may reduce allergic response. In combination, bioflavonoids are said to enhance the health benefits of Vitamin C including stronger immunity, detoxification, eye and skin and health, making citrus fruits a powerhouse health as well as allergies.
- Onions – Onions have a surprising range of health benefits including antibacterial activity, immune support, detoxification and promoting healthy blood. Onions help with allergies because in addition to containing Vitamin C, they are one of the best food sources of a natural antihistamine called quercetin. Quercetin is thought to reduce seasonal allergy symptoms by blocking the release histamine to prevent a reaction. Onions also demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties that may help ease the uncomfortable symptoms of an allergic reaction.
- Oily Fish – Oily fish like sardines, mackerel and salmon are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. As noted above, anti-inflammatory foods may assist to reduce allergic symptoms by managing the inflammation that causes discomfort, itchiness and swelling in an allergic reaction.
- Bee Pollen – Not convinced it’s a food? Bee Pollen is actually one of the most nutritious foods on earth! It’s rich in bioflavonoids, vitamins and minerals, and the combination of these help defend against allergies. In particular, bee pollen contains the powerful bioflavonoid quercetin, which as we’ve already discovered, is a natural antihistamine.
- Carotenoids - Caretenoids include a range of brightly coloured fruits and vegetables like pumpkin, spinach, broccoli, kale, red peppers and sweet potatoes. Aside from being abundant in health-promoting antioxidants and Vitamin C some studies* link carotenoids to a positive impact on the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
It’s easy to consume some or all of these foods every day and vitamin or bioflavonoid supplements are also available. If you’re looking for a more natural way to manage seasonal allergies, try adding some of these natural antihistamines and anti-inflammatory allergy fighters to your day!
