1. Vitamin C
The body produces histamine in reaction to certain allergens, this is responsible for symptoms like tearing, excess mucus and runny noses. While over-the-counter antihistamines medication work by interfering with histamine after it’s produced, Vitamin C actually prevents the formation of histamine by stabilizing the mast cells that produce histamine.
NOTE: Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is safe even at high doses. It may act as a natural laxative in certain individuals, so be sure to increase the dose slowly and spread it throughout the day. Depending on bowel tolerance, one can easily take 2,000 to 6,000 mg per day for stress protection and immune support. Look for a supplement that also contains bioflavanoids.
2. Probiotics
Studies show that the gut microbiota plays a role in the development of seasonal allergies. Allergy sufferers should look for supplements that include the following strains that help to breakdown histamine: B. infantis, B. longum, L. rhamnosus, L. salivarius, L. sporogenes, L. plantarum and L. gasseri
NOTE: To date there are no probiotic formulas on the market specifically formulated for allergies.
3. EPA/DHA fish oils
My favourite natural anti-inflammatories anytime of the year are omega 3’s!
An in vitro, (animal) study showed omega 3’s may also reduce symptoms of allergy symptoms.
Fish oils are also very useful for the treatment and prevention of skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
NOTE: During allergy season take 2,000 to 6,000 mg in divided doses with meals daily.
4. Quercetin
Quercetin, a bioflavonoid found in onions, is an effective inhibitor of histamine, (an anti-histamine).
NOTE: Best taken with vitamin C mixed with bioflavanoids. Take 500 to 1,000 mg two or three times daily during allergy season.
5. Plant Sterols
Allergies are a sign that your immune system is overacting to something innocuous. Fortunately, plant sterols (sterols and sterolins) help to modulate (balance) your immune system.
NOTE: Can be taken on an empty stomach first thing in the morning or before bed. Can also be taken with probiotic supplements.
Keep in mind that eating a healthy diet loaded with organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains and ethically sourced proteins is also VERY important for every aspect of your health, including the management of symptoms related to seasonal allergies.
***PLEASE NOTE: I generally recommend starting with one supplement at a time, and usually at a lower dose than recommended on the bottle. Consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before supplementing especially if you have a pre-existing health condition, take medication or are about to have a medical procedure.
Don’t hesitate to contact me with questions or comments.
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REFERENCES:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5537898/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6129797/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707683/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32507438/
https://aacijournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1710-1492-5-5#:~:text=Probiotics%20have%20been%20shown%20to,well%20as%20a%20therapeutic%20capacity.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10383481/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273625/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4808895/