Seasonal allergies are a common problem that affects millions of people every year. While conventional medicine offers solutions in the form of antihistamines and steroids, naturopathic medicine takes a different approach. In this blog post, we will explore seasonal allergies from a naturopathic perspective and provide natural ways to reduce histamines.
How many people suffer from seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, affect approximately 10-30% of the global population. The symptoms of seasonal allergies include:
Sneezing
Runny nose
Itchy eyes
Congestion
Why allergies are not for life
Contrary to popular belief, allergies are not for life. They are often the result of underlying imbalances in the body that can be corrected with the right approach. Naturopathic medicine seeks to address the root cause of allergies, rather than just treating the symptoms.
What is histamine, and what's its function?
Histamine is a molecule produced by the immune system in response to allergens. Its function is to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the affected area, allowing immune cells to reach the site of the allergen and eliminate it. However, in people with allergies, the immune system produces too much histamine, causing the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Underlying root causes of allergies
Naturopathic medicine recognizes that allergies are a result of underlying imbalances in the body. These imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, stress, and environmental toxins. Common underlying causes of allergies include:
Leaky gut syndrome: An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to increased intestinal permeability, allowing allergens to pass through the gut and trigger an immune response.
Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc can impair the immune system's ability to respond to allergens.
Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation can make the immune system hypersensitive to allergens, leading to an overproduction of histamine.
Environmental toxins: Exposure to toxins such as pesticides and air pollution can contribute to the development of allergies.
Natural ways to reduce histamines
There are several, natural ways to reduce histamines and alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies. These include:
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and histamine levels. Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, and leafy greens.
Foods to avoid: Certain foods can trigger histamine production, exacerbating allergy symptoms. These include fermented foods, alcohol, and aged cheeses.
Increase DAO function: DAO (diamine oxidase) is an enzyme that breaks down histamine in the body. Focus on increasing your DAO enzyme naturally by consuming healthy fats like coconut oil, olive oil, wild-caught salmon and walnuts, and gluten-free grains like rice and quinoa. These can support DAO levels, which help to break down histamine.
Your Next Steps for Relief
If you are struggling with seasonal allergies, consider working with an Integrative Health Practitioner at Love Energy Wellness. Our practitioners can help you identify the underlying root causes of your allergies and develop a personalized plan to address them. With the right approach, you can reduce histamines naturally and alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Schedule a complimentary consultation at the button below.
