How to Reduce the Dreaded Austin Allergy Symptoms – Part 2

How to Reduce the Dreaded Austin Allergy Symptoms – Part 2

How to Reduce the Dreaded Austin Allergy Symptoms – Part 2

Other ways to naturally reduce and/or eliminate allergy symptoms

An integrative and holistic approach to allergy treatment includes supporting and improving the immune, adrenal, and digestive symptoms with proper nutrition, sleep, specific supplements, and herbal medicine. Medications may be necessary, but should be used for the most severe cases and under direct supervision by your healthcare provider.

  1. Avoid dairy. Dairy thickens mucus and for many people worsens congestion and asthma symptoms. I would absolutely avoid dairy if you suffer from asthma or allergy induced asthma.
  2. Avoid wheat. More and more data is coming out on the negative effects of wheat on the body. Grain Brainand Wheat Bellyare written by two different medical doctors stating the inflammatory effects wheat has on the body, and it all starts in the gut. Try eliminating it for 30 days and see how you feel.
  1. Avoid sugar and grains. Choose a wide variety of fresh vegetables, pasture raised protein and healthy fats.
  2. Get enough sleep. Inadequate sleep weakens your immune system and makes you more susceptible to viruses, allergens and illness. You should get 8-10 hours of sleep nightly.
  3. Manage emotional stressors. Stress can worsen symptoms of allergies and predispose you to infection. Find ways to relieve stress including exercise, breathing exercises, stretching, and meditation.
  4. Have your vitamin D level checked. Vitamin D deficiency can weaken your immune system. Ensure your level is adequate or supplement if necessary.
  5. Vitamin C. Take 1-3 grams 2-3 times daily or to bowel tolerance.
  6. Probiotics. 1-2 times daily. Buy a quality product that has 3-5 billion organisms per capsule.
  7. Take zinc. Zinc is a trace element essential for cells of the immune system. Foods high in Zinc include red meat, mushrooms, oysters, pumpkin, flax & sesame seeds, and dark chocolate.

Herbals, Homeopathic therapies and misc. therapies

If you are eating clean, sleeping well, and managing stress and still suffer from allergy symptoms, you may want to try the following natural therapies.

  1. Butterbur. A derivative from a common weed in Europe, butterbur has been shown to be just as effective as the drug cetirizine, the active ingredient in Zyrtec. [Caution to those allergic to ragweed, butterbur is in the same family.]
  2. Quercetin. Natural plant derived compound that helps stabilize mast cells and prevent them from releasing histamine. Also, a natural antioxidant. Recommended dose 1,000mg daily and best if started 6 weeks before allergy season.
  3. Raw local honey. Can build immunity through gradual exposure of local allergens. Also, helps thin mucus.
  4. Local Bee Pollen. Natural antioxidant and anti-microbial action, but is also a remedy for hay fever and allergies. Should be taken at least six weeks before the season begins. Can be found in many grocery stores as well as a natural pharmacy.
  5. Combination allergy supplements. Many “natural antihistamines” (e.g. D-hist) contain a blend of botanicals and seem to be effective and well-tolerated. These can be found at your local natural pharmacy or grocery.
  6. Homeopathic drops. There are specific seasonal allergy formulas that can help reduce the body’s negative reaction to allergens. There are specific Grass, Weed and Tree blends. These can be found at a natural pharmacy.

To say it simply, the best defense against allergy season is to eat clean, sleep well and manage stressors. Identifying food allergens and sensitivities can greatly reduce symptoms. Starting on bee pollen and a combination allergy supplement that includes Butterbur and Quercetin may be helpful, but start early (at least 6 weeks before allergens start). It may be necessary in severe cases, especially in those who suffer from asthma, frequent sinusitis and bronchitis. we recommend discussing with your healthcare provider.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on pharmaceutical medications regularly, you should consult your healthcare provider before starting on any supplement or herbal treatments.