I think Spring has finally made its way to Dallas for good, and the warm temperatures and beautiful flowers sure are refreshing after an unusually long and cold winter! Unfortunately for many of us, however, spring also means seasonal allergies are in full effect. In this vlog, Dr. Brown explains just what an allergy is and gives some natural tips on how to combat them! I’ve included all the tips in written form below as well.
Seasonal Allergies
1. An allergy is an inappropriate immune response in the body. The immune system is reacting to something that it should not normally react to causing symptoms of a cold without the presence of a virus or bacteria.
2. Undiagnosed food allergies can be an underlying cause of seasonal allergies. Common food allergies include these four pro-inflammatory foods: wheat, soy, corn, and cow dairy.
3. Inflammation is the #1 modifiable risk factor to aging, which is associated with more plaque in the arteries and higher risk for heart attack, stroke, and neurodegenerative conditions. Avoiding pro-inflammatory foods will not only improve the body’s reaction to airborn pollens but you can actually improve the way the body ages as well.
4. An overworked adrenal system can be another underlying factor leading to seasonal allergies. Staying in a constant state of worry and mental stress taxes our adrenal {aka “stress”} glands to the point that they are not able to produce a sufficient amount of the anti-inflammatory hormones needed to respond properly to airborne allergies. All the tips we have talked about in prior blogs and vlogs (a clean diet, healthy sleep habits, and regular exercise) plus controlling the mental stress help keep the adrenal system functioning optimally and can in turn actually help with seasonal allergies as well.
5. Reducing exposure to pollen can also be helpful in combatting allergies. Getting air ducts and carpets cleaned at least once a year and dusting the house at least once a week can help reduce indoor pollen count. You can even install a high quality allergen filter into your HVAC unit which can be very helpful!
6. Basic natural remedies to help with allergy symptoms: Fenugreek is an herb that can help break up mucous. Stinging nettles is another herb commonly used to decrease seasonal allergy symptoms. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids (preferably not from a corn source) can reduce inflammation. Also keep the nasal passages washed out with a neti pot or even just a simple saline spray.
7. There are alternatives to allergy shots using specific homeopathic remedies. That is best administered through a health care practitioner {like Dr. Brown if you are local}, but some may be available at a health food store as well.
Hope this helps, friends! Please feel free to leave a question or comment below or on our Facebook page!
Til next time,
