The Best Foods to Eat During Allergy Season

And those to avoid

As the cold winter slowly melts away and the days slip into balmy spring, something else fills the air. Tiny pollen particles produced by several distinct forces converge to make trees, grasses, weeds, and other allergy producers thrive longer during the growing season. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a twofold pollutant — it’s the main factor in global warming, but it also supplies carbon to plants through photosynthesis. When temperatures rise, these plants feed off more CO2 in the air and become more vigorous, releasing more pollen, which floats on the breeze and makes its way into your nose and eyes. Achoo, oh, the misery… Sadly, you are not alone.

Studies show that 10 to 30 percent of the population worldwide suffers from allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever. Doctors and scientists predict the number will continue to rise due to global warming. The effects of airborne pollen are sneezing, watery eyes, a runny nose, headache, loss of appetite, and inability to sleep. Fortunately, you can take steps to lessen allergic reactions. A powerful remedy is found in food.

Certain foods are found to reduce the effects of allergies, helping make springtime more bearable for allergy sufferers. These foods are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and other nutrients that can help strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Onions are a rich source of quercetin, a flavonoid found to help reduce the symptoms of allergies. Quercetin works by blocking your body’s production and release of histamines. In addition to its anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin is also thought to have antioxidant effects, helping reduce oxidative stress in cells, which can help protect against other chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Overall, onions are an excellent source of quercetin, an effective natural allergy remedy.

Mackerel, Tuna, Salmon, Mussels: and other seafood are rich sources of DHA and EPA, healthy omega-3 fatty acids that are incredibly beneficial to the human body — they help reduce internal inflammation, support your immune system, reduce allergic reactions, and provide heart health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential in maintaining your health during allergy season.