Yay, winter is over! Spring brings with it warmer weather, budding flowers and unfortunately, seasonal allergies. Allergies are a nuisance but, if we cannot beat them then what are the best ways to remedy them?
Fortify Against Allergies:
1. Liquids
A well hydrated body helps to keep your organs functional and assists in removing toxin build-up in the body. Drinking water is especially effective in reducing inflammation caused by harmful pathogens entering the body.
Start your day off by rehydrating with a cool glass of water or a mug of warm, lemon-infused water. It is advisable to take in liquids at least an hour before meals as drinking with meals can interfere with digestion. Liquids assist with flushing out toxins so be sure to keep hydrated throughout the day.
End the day off with a warm drink of herbal tea, such as peppermint, Rooibos or our personal favourite, Stametta Tea. Herbal teas offer immune boosting qualities that assist with remedying allergy symptoms.
2. Spices and Herbal Supplements
Allergy symptoms such as congestion, stuffiness and post-nasal drip can be alleviated with the very herbs and spices found in your pantry! The chemical properties found in turmeric, ginger, cayenne pepper, garlic, and cinnamon assist with reducing inflammation caused by histamine entering the body.
Sprinkle over salads, add to cooked meals or brew in boiling water to enjoy as an immune boosting tea.
Moringa powder is another superfood/ herbal supplement that contains significant amounts of vitamins and minerals (including Vitamin C). It is an absolute essential in your pantry! Add to green smoothies or sprinkle over fruit and cereals.
3. Nuts and Seeds
Omega-3 rich nuts and seeds are excellent brain food, and they help to remedy inflammation. Seasonal allergies are generally caused by an inflammatory reaction of the mucus membranes to environmental stimulants. For a plant-based source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, stir in flax seeds, chia seeds or walnuts to your porridge, salads, and smoothies.
4. Fruits
Nature has provided us with exactly what we need to consume to best support our bodies as the season changes. Vitamin C rich fruits such as berries and grapefruits are high in antioxidants which help to reduce the growth of toxins and pathogens in the body.
5. Leafy Greens
Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and lettuce leaves assist in mitigating the natural immune response of histamine release in response to external irritants such as pollen. In general, we should be consuming as much leafy greens as possible for optimal gut health. Remember, holistic health starts in the gut.
As convenient as allergy medication may be, our bodies are organic organisms and function optimally when fed the like. A balanced plant-based lifestyle can transform our health at a cellular level. Our fundamental building blocks undergo significant stress in our fast-paced, convenient living lifestyles.
Although spring is making space for summer to take centre stage, poor health choices may carry allergies over well into summer. This spring let us make a conscious effort to support our bodies as we transition into seasons. You can make small changes now to help you to look and, most importantly, FEEL your best this summer season! Live consciously to improve your longevity.
