courtesy of Spence’s Pharmacy
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic inflammatory condition of the nasal passages that affects a large portion of Americans. For some individuals, allergies are a seasonal manifestation. For others, allergies are a year-round challenge.
The term “hay fever” originated in the early 1800s when individuals seemed to suffer allergy symptoms during the hay growing season. The symptoms commonly seen with hay fever and seasonal allergies are watery, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, excessive mucous production, and sneezing. Histamine, which is produced by the mast cells, creates a cascade of events that are meant to flush out the offending substance from the body. That’s why antihistamines are commonly used to address the symptoms of histamine release. However, antihistamines come with a number of adverse side effects. Fortunately, there are several natural substances that may help manage allergy challenges without the side effects found in traditional antihistamine products.
Vitamin C, specifically Esterified Vitamin C 500 mg, taken two to three times daily has been shown to be beneficial against allergies by expediting the elimination of inflammatory histamine from the body. Quercetin, another natural substance, can serve as a mast cell stabilizer, blocking the release of histamine. Quercetin has also demonstrated a bronchodilator effect, helping to open the airways of individuals with asthma.
Medical studies are indicating that, for many individuals, allergic reactions can be caused by permeability in the gut, commonly known as leaky gut syndrome. Since most allergens are protein based, low stomach acid and the inability to digest offending proteins can create issues when those proteins cross over from the gut into the serum. For individuals
with chronic allergic problems, taking a quality probiotic can help maintain gut health.
Omega-3 essential fatty acids, like those found in Omega-3 Fish Oil, have been shown to be beneficial in managing inflammatory allergic and asthmatic symptoms.
Seventy percent of our immune function and our ability to resist allergens is found in our gut. So, maintaining good gut health on a daily basis can be essential for the management of allergy issues, regardless of the source.
