Spring’s finally here. As amazing as the warmer weather feels, for allergy sufferers like me, it’s not always fun. The sneezing, watery eyes and runny nose that come along with Spring is no joke. But it doesn’t mean you have to live in mucous-filled misery.
These four allergy-fighters will help improve your body’s allergic response naturally, so you can venture outdoors and actually enjoy the season.
I moved to Nashville, allergy-free. But after a year of living in Tennessee, a trip to the allergist confirmed that my stubborn ‘cold’ symptoms were actually allergies.
AT 34, I DEVELOPED SEASONAL ALLERGIES
And apparently, I hit the allergy jackpot. It turns out I had a major allergy for every season of the year.
At first, I did what most do. I headed to the allergy aisle at my pharmacy and grabbed one of everything.
BUT I HATED THE SIDE-EFFECTS
That some allergy medicines have. Plus, I knew the more often I turned to allergy meds, the more my body would depend on them. I started testing natural options, found the combination that works like a charm and haven’t wanted (or needed) to look back.
I love these
L. Rhamnosus
The healthy bacterial strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus helps improve gut health but it also helps reduce allergy symptoms. I can develop allergy-induced rhinitis so this strain is my BFF.
Vitamin C
Just 2000 mg of the antioxidant vitamin C can reduce the histamine levels in our body by 40%. Keep in mind our body can only use 1,000 mg of vitamin C at a time so I like to split the amount I take throughout the day.
Quercetin
One gram of the plant flavonol quercetin helps to restrict the amount of histamine that our cells are able to release – making it a natural anti-histamine. And on a side note: it also helps protect our bodies against that bad (LDL) cholesterol.
Apple Cider Vinegar
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in warm water 1-3 times a day helps boost our immune system, lower mucous production and clear our lymphatic system.
Remember
Pollen is a super fine, allergy-inducing powder. And once you step outside, that pesky powder gets everywhere.
That’s why I make sure to get out of my clothes and hit the shower as soon as my day is done. It helps to get the pollen off of me and stop it from traveling throughout my home.