There are a lot of things you have to avoid when you have hay fever. These include pollen, dust, dust mites, smoke, pet dander, and molds.
There are certain foods and beverages you have to avoid as well. Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, chocolates, and even most types of nuts contain histamines – chemicals that cause various symptoms of different types of allergies, including hay fever. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and tickly throat.
But if you are suffering from hay fever, you have to know that there are a number of foods and beverages that you can consume to relieve the symptoms. Using one’s diet to alleviate discomfort is one of the least known
Aside from taking your anti-allergy medication and avoiding the usual allergy triggers, you can beat hay fever and its annoying symptoms by increasing your intake of the following:
1. Apples
Apples are not only packed with vitamin C and fiber; they are also loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols which include quercetin.
Studies show that people who regularly eat apples have better protection against allergies and even asthma. This is because quercetin has anti-allergen properties that will support your fight against hay fever and its irritating symptoms.
And when eating this fruit, make sure to eat the skin since this is where most of its key nutrients are stored.
2. Pineapples
The pineapple is another fruit that you should start eating more during hay fever season.
Pineapples are rich in bromelain, a natural protein-digesting enzyme which enhances the efficacy of quercetin.
Additionally, bromelain is a powerful anti-inflammatory substance which, on its own, can reduce inflammation of the nose and sinuses. And this will help you avoid that annoying runny nose and all the frequent sneezing.
3. Onions
To boost your intake of quercetin, add more onions to your diet. Include it in all the dishes you will prepare at home.
Whether they are cooked or raw, onions will help you battle those annoying hay fever symptoms.
However, make sure to eat only fresh onions since they can lose a quarter of their quercetin content after being stored for a week or more.
4. Garlic
If you are suffering from frequent sneezing and runny nose, eat more garlic. It is a natural decongestant that will help ease your sneezes and sniffles.
In addition, garlic has been proven effective in strengthening the immune system. This will help your body become more resistant to colds and allergens.
To boost your intake of this bulb, add it to soups, stews, pasta, and rice. You can also add dried flaked or powdered garlic as a flavoring to your favorite dishes. Another option would be to take a garlic supplement in capsule form.
5. Broccoli
To ease allergy symptoms, you need to consume 500mg of vitamin C every day. You can get about 80mg of this nutrient by eating a cup of raw broccoli.
By eating a cup of this vegetable daily, you’re off to a good start in terms of getting the amount you need to fight off the symptoms of hay fever. Add more tomatoes, kiwi, oranges, and lemons in your daily diet and you will reach the recommended intake of vitamin C.
Additionally, this superfood is a member of the cruciferous family and, as such, can help clear blocked-up sinuses.
6. Turmeric
This superfood (in its natural state as well as in powder form) contains curcumin, a substance which has natural antihistamine effects. It also has anti-inflammatory substances, which means it can ease and fight allergy symptoms from the onset.
Turmeric is a great spice to add to curries, stews, soups, and egg dishes. You can also drink organic turmeric tea which you can buy from the supermarket.
Another option would be to add turmeric powder to your favorite herbal tea or even to a glass of water.
7. Oily fish
Various studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can help soothe allergy symptoms. This particular type of healthy fat can also reduce inflammation.
To get relief from your hay fever, eat more tuna, salmon, mackerel, and herring. Try to eat at least two portions of these fatty fish each week to calm the usual symptoms of hay fever.
8. Seeds
Flax and chia seeds are excellent sources of alpha-linolenic acid or ALA, the plant-based version of omega-3 fatty acids. These superfoods will give you relief from the irksome symptoms of hay fever and other types of allergies.
To get the most benefits from flax and chia seeds, grind them and add to your dishes. Your body will be able to absorb the seeds’ fatty acids better when they are ground.
Flax and chia seeds are also rich in protein, so sprinkle them over your favorite homemade snacks for an instant energy boost.
Making a few changes to your diet will allow you to manage your hay fever better. And by increasing your intake of these nutrient-packed foods, you will boost your overall health as well.