We are in for a lovely summer, however, since it is season for allergens, there are some of us who cannot enjoy this time as much as other people.
Allergy is an indication of the body’s immune system trying to fight something foreign, called an ‘allergen’, such as pollen. Allergy is caused by the immune system producing antibodies – a sort of antidote against the allergen – which cause other cells to release ‘histamine’, among other things.
These substances are the triggering factors for the allergic reaction, as they cause:
- Blood vessels to expand, fluids to leak, which then causes the mucus membranes to swell up.
- Slime-producing glands to become stimulated in the nose and airways.
- Muscles within the airways to contract, causing the airways to constrict, thereby resulting in shortness of breath or asthma attacks.
- Itching
The allergen is harmless to non-allergists, whereas the immune system in allergists mistakenly detects the allergen as something harmful to be combated. This hypersensitivity will return every time the allergist is exposed to the allergen.
6 types of food that help allergists:
There are various different foods you can eat to help relieve your body’s reaction to these allergens, which are anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants or contain probiotics (elaborated below).
Apples:
They are rich in quercetin – a natural antihistamine also found in onions, cabbage, berries and cauliflower, and which also helps prevent the body’s immune system from releasing histamine. This puts an end to the release of histamine, and thereby reduces your symptoms.
Strawberries:
Contains large amounts of vitamin C. Vitamin C will not only strengthen your immune system, but it will also help stop the release of histamines. A study has shown that vitamin C supplementation can lower histamine with 38 percent, while other studies have shown that a lack of vitamin C can increase the blood’s level of histamine to sky-high levels.
Yogurt made from coconut milk:
Probiotika, which is beneficial intestinal bacteria, is not only good for your digestive system but they can also destroy allergic reactions.
Turmeric:
This Indian spice has long been praised for its anti-inflammatory abilities, and research has shown that curcumin – the active substance in turmeric – can block the release of histamine.
Pumpkin seeds:
These delicious seeds are filled with magnesium, which is a mineral with a relaxing effect on the body’s muscles and which helps open the airways, allowing you to breathe more easily. Animal experiments have shown that magnesium deficiency can increase the histamine levels. Almonds, sunflower seeds, oats, broccoli, greens and dark chocolate also contain a lot of magnesium and therefore have the same effect.
Salmon:
This fish is one of the best ways of increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce the allergic reaction by lowering inflammation. A German study observed that a high level of omega-3 fatty acids within the red blood corpuscles or in the diet was connected to a reduced risk of hay fever. Omega-3 fatty acids are also associated with stronger hearts, better mood and increased memory.
