Four food heroes in the battle against seasonal allergies

Generally referred to as Hayfever, seasonal allergies can cover a number of uncomfortable physical symptoms where the body’s immune system reacts to allergens in the environment.

It is possible to suffer with hayfever type symptoms at other times of the year, not just in the summer.  But the most common allergens from trees, grass and weeds are usually worse for most people during the summer months.

These uncomfortable and often debilitating symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes and throat and ear canal congestion is your body’s way of trying to fight off a substance that your complex immune system identifies as dangerous.  The body tries to tackle the issue by releasing histamines into your system.  Essentially, there is a cycle of inflammation at work .

Reducing inflammation in the body and eating to support the immune system may alleviate the misery of ‘hayfever’ season.

1. Ginger

Throughout history ginger has been used as a natural remedy for various health concerns.  Ginger is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory compounds.  Add to curries and stir-fries and to fruit salad.  Drink ginger tea (either hot or iced) throughout the day.

2. Tomatoes

A major dietary source of antioxidant lycopene which has a number of health benefits, tomatoes are also packed with Vitamin C.  During the allergy season foods with Vitamin C, citrus fruits and tomatoes may slow down the overreaction of your body by decreasing the histamine production in the body.  

3. Turmeric

Turmeric contains the active ingredient Curcumin.  Another powerful anti-inflammatory source with the potential to assist skin and digestive issues.  Adding Turmeric to the diet may help to alleviate hives or other rashes connected to seasonal allergies.

Add Turmeric to curries, rice, scrambled eggs or tofu and soups.  Experiment with Turmeric Tea or Latte or add to a super green smoothie for breakfast. 

4. Oily Fish

 Omega 3 fatty acids found in oily fish could boost allergy resistance and help to decrease the narrowing of airways that occurs with some seasonal allergies.

As with the other foods mentioned, Omega 3 has anti-inflammatory properties.  Vegans and Vegetarians can find the same Omega 3 benefits from foods such as flaxseeds, walnuts, edamame beans, chia seeds and soybean oil.

It is worth adding these food warriors to your daily diet.  Stay fighting fit during the allergy season!