MAILBAG: Ease Annoying Allergy Symptoms
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 28, 2023
“My allergies have been so terrible the last few weeks and my allergy medicine isn’t really doing anything. What can I do?”
– Darlene from Chesapeake, Virginia
Hi Darlene,
There are two steps I typically recommend to tackle troublesome allergies.
The first is to focus on nutrients.
Begin by getting enough magnesium, folic acid, and carotenoids (yellow, orange, or red antioxidant pigments found in plants).
- Magnesium is a natural antihistamine.
- Folic acid can suppress allergic reactions and ease symptoms.
- Carotenoids protect against hay fever.
Dark leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and beans are good sources of magnesium and folic acid. And carrots, bell peppers, grapefruit, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes are just a few of the MANY foods that are rich in carotenoids.
Next, take a good probiotic since gut health is closely tied to the immune system and inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids target inflammation as well. You’ll find them in cold-water fatty fish (like salmon and tuna) and fish oil supplements.
The second step is to lower your overall allergy exposure.
Imagine a cup that’s filled to the brim with water. If you add MORE, it will spill over. Now picture a half-filled one instead. Adding a bit more water won’t cause it to overflow.
If you’re exposed to allergy triggers and battling the resulting inflammation the rest of the year (the full cup), you’re far more likely to get slammed with major allergy symptoms (the overflowing cup) by the time spring rolls around.
But if you limit your exposure to common allergens and lower your inflammation levels (the half-full cup) you can dodge most of those misery-making symptoms when spring arrives.
Avoid processed foods that promote inflammation and can contain hidden allergens. Ditch added sugars which raise inflammation levels and can intensify hay fever symptoms. And consider avoiding wheat, peanuts, and alcohol, all of which can worsen seasonal allergies.
P.S. Have a health concern that’s worrying you? CLICK HERE to submit your questions and get featured in the weekly mailbag.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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