In the United States, allergies are considered the sixth leading cause of chronic illness. This is a condition that more than 50 million Americans suffer from.
If you suffer from allergies, even seasonal allergies, there’s no question they can make you miserable. While there are all types of over-the-counter and prescription medications available, there are some foods that can fight allergies, too.
Are you ready to find out what foods for allergies work? If so, keep reading.
1. Citrus Fruits
The essential oils that are found in citrus fruits, such as lemons, tangerines, and oranges, offer an antihistamine effect. Eating these can help to relax your nasal passages.
Keep in mind, in many cases, your nose is stuffed due to inflammation. If this is the case, then citrus may not be too effective.
2. Fish
There is some evidence that the omega-3 fatty acids found in tuna, salmon, and other types of fix can help reduce the chances you develop allergies, to begin with. If you already suffer from allergies, then it can also help to alleviate your symptoms.
3. Broccoli
Considered one of the healthiest foods for people who run, broccoli is full of vitamin C. This helps clear up your sinuses if they are blocked.
It has been proven that 500 mg of vitamin C per day can help to ease your allergy symptoms. Eating a cup of broccoli gives you approximately 80 mg.
4. Yogurt
You may not believe that your digestive tract has much to do with a stuffy or runny nose. However, it can.
The “good” bacteria, also called probiotics present in your intestines may help to alleviate your allergy symptoms including congestion and a running nose. Yogurt is a great, natural source of probiotics, but it is best to purchase a brand that has live cultures in it.
5. Green Tea
Green tea may be able to stop your body from producing an immune response to several different allergens. Some of the ones it is most effective against include dust, pet dander, and pollen.
By steeping a few cups a day, you can enhance your body’s defenses.
6. Cocoa
Here is a great excuse for you to load up on all the dark chocolate you want. When you eat cocoa regularly, the levels of the allergy-causing IgE are reduced than if you did not eat cocoa at all.
7. Almonds
If you opt to eat nuts three times per week, then you will experience fewer wheezing symptoms during allergy season than individuals who don’t.
Why?
Because almonds (along with other nuts) are full of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant. This serves as a natural anti-inflammatory for your airways.
8. Turmeric
If you don’t mind a bit of spice, then turmeric can help with allergic reactions. Curcumin the active ingredient not only gives turmeric it’s color, but it also has antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
It is also an anti-inflammatory. As a result, it’s useful in fighting off many of the symptoms associated with allergies.
Foods for Allergies that Work
Are you ready to minimize your allergy symptoms? If so, try some of the foods for allergies found here.
You will be surprised about how effective eating these foods can be, and how much better you can feel just by eating them.
If you found the information here helpful, then be sure to check out some of our other blogs. For example, we offer information on how to care for your heart.