Allergy season is here again and from what I am seeing in the office it appears to be a bad time for many. If you are one of the many who suffers from a stuffy or runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing you can follow some easy at home steps that will reduce the severity of your reaction.
1) Add more essential fatty acids to your diet
Things such as fish and or fish oil, flax seeds, walnuts, almonds are great sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an oil that will fight inflammation.
2) Minimize your food sensitivities and mucus-producing foods
It is thought that some foods such as dairy, wheat, and sugar will both increase the inflammatory response and stress an already taxed immune system.
3) Water, Water, Water
Drinking 1/2 of your body weight in ounces will help thin mucus and hydrate your tissue.
4) Change your clothes when you get home
Pollen stays on our hair, skin and clothing, so, it is wise to take a shower and change your clothes immediately upon coming home.
5) Use a Netti pot
Most health food stores carry this little pot. It allows you to wash out the allergens trapped in the nasal passages and encourages mucus release. The Netti pot comes with directions and may take a little practice to get the hang of it.
Alison Finger, ND
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