4 Foods That Fight Seasonal Allergies
People who suffer from seasonal allergies are often forced to experience the beautiful change of seasons indoors where they can be far away from allergens. Over-the-counter medications are available to treat symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, scratchy throats, and a runny nose, but many of them contain harsh ingredients that cause adverse reactions. Instead of hiding indoors, try beating seasonal allergies the natural way by adding the following foods to the weekly grocery list.
Pineapple
Pineapple contains an enzyme known as bromelain that has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory benefits, which are beneficial for reducing allergic reactions. According to a 2017 study published by the University Of Connecticut School Of Medicine, bromelain contains anti-allergic, antithrombotic, antiedematous, and anti-inflammatory properties that are used by naturopaths and conventional doctors alike to reduce inflammatory responses to stimuli. Bromelain can be taken in supplement form but is better absorbed by the body when eaten in whole food form.
Onions
Onions are a prebiotic, meaning they are needed to fuel the “good” bacteria in the gut. It is important to keep the digestive tract happy as it houses seventy-five percent of the immune system and controls how the body reacts to allergens. Quercetin is the active ingredient found in onions. It is responsible for fighting inflammation, boosting the immune system, and inhibiting the release of histamines, or chemical substances that induce allergic reactions. Other good sources of quercetin include broccoli, berries, and apples.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most potent anti-inflammatory herbs on earth with thousands of studies to back this claim. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that is responsible for its healing benefits. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that supplementing with curcumin capsules improved bronchial asthma symptoms in seventy-seven patients. Its anti-inflammatory benefits also help protect the body against allergic reactions. Aim for five to eight hundred milligrams of curcumin daily in supplement form.
Brussels Sprouts
A 2014 study published in Food and Function investigated the allergic response of twenty-nine adults who were exposed to exhaust particles and then given a Brussels sprouts supplement for four days. Results indicated that after the participants had taken the supplement, their white blood cell response decreased by fifty-four percent. Authors of the study reported that Brussels sprouts contain an ingredient called sulforaphane that may help people with allergies and asthma symptoms by detoxing allergens out of the body.