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Allergy Relief for All!
The prime allergy season is quickly advancing, and for many of us, we’re already in the thick of things. Itchy eyes, runny nose, congestion, and sometimes headaches are the result of our immune systems overreacting to what would otherwise be harmless fluffy plant pollen that floats in the breeze. Grass, tree, and ragweed pollen pose no danger to us, so why do our immune systems insist otherwise?
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Our bodies view these substances as virulent germ invaders, and mount an immune response in the same manner that it would if you had inhaled a cold virus or harmful bacteria. Needless to say, somewhere along the line, something went haywire, and the body was misinformed that pollen is not on the most wanted list.
So what are we to do? We need to re-train the body to recognize friend from foe, and we do so by introducing proper nutrients into the body that re-establish the lines of communication within the immune system. This enables our white blood cells the opportunity to focus on the real bad guys, and forget about those fluffy little pollen particles that emerge from our favourite willow tree in the backyard.
Omega 3 essential fatty acids and plant sterols are likely to be the most specific anti-allergy nutrients available in the diet. These two sets of nutrients have an incredible body of research to support their role in regulating the immune response, and have tremendous anti-inflammatory benefits. As an allergy sufferer since the age of 7, I can personally attest to the incredible benefits of these nutrients. Fish, flax, walnuts, soy and 8-10 servings of vegetables can ensure that these nutrient needs are met. Luckily they are also available in supplement form for convenience. Plant sterols are sold under the brand name Moducare, Immuno-Care and others.
Other factors can include limiting or eliminating foods in the diet that can cause “hypersensitivity” and exacerbate allergy symptoms. Often reducing or cutting out gluten and dairy from the diet can drastically change the degree of congestion we might face.
Finally, a number of products exist such as Quercetin, Aller-7 and Allermin, that naturally inhibit histamine production (the substances secreted by the body that create the allergic response) and in essence work in the same vein as over-the-counter prescription medication, without the side-effects.
With a little help from a healthy diet, omega 3 fatty acids, and plant sterols, we can spend a lot less time next to the box of tissue, and a lot more in the great outdoors this summer.
Tyler Arsenault, B.Sc(Nutr)
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