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Allergy: Nutritional Approaches
Medical advances can help allergy sufferers to better understand and treat their allergic reactions, particularly the body�s inflammatory response. In order to counter the effects of inflammation we need to understand this
process. White blood cells, the production of which is stimulated by allergic reactions, secrete inflammation-producing substances, including C-reactive Protein (CRP) and free radicals. To find out if you have unhealthy inflammation, blood tests can check for CRP levels, which will show the degree of inflammation in the body. Fortunately, dietary changes can greatly reduce allergic reactions due to inflammation.
Many people are mildly allergic to wheat and dairy products, and therefore eliminating them from the diet often help with allergy symptoms. Refined carbohydrates - including white flour, sugar and potatoes - increase inflammation, so reducing and avoiding these types of foods can often help as well.
Vitamin supplements improve overall health and can specifically target inflammation. Some of the best supplements to add for helping with your allergies are the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish or flaxseed oils. Adding more fish and other seafood to your diet at least 3 times each week can make a tremendous difference as well.
Grape-seed extract is another helpful supplement, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and can be bought in capsule form as a supplement. Quercetin is a flavonoid, which is found in apples, onions, broccoli and citrus fruits. It inhibits the production and release of histamines and is also an antioxidant, which inhibits free radicals. Adding these delicious foods to your regular eating habits will help ensure you're getting plenty of the right nutrition for helping reduce allergy symptoms.
Green and black tea both contain many natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. Try drinking a cup or two of green tea daily, or if you don�t like drinking green tea, extracts are also available in capsule form. You can also mix green and black tea together to create a different taste.
Note: Some statements in this article may not be
approved by the FDA. This article is for informational purposes only and
should not be taken as professional medical advice.
