Weathering Allergies Naturally

What are allergies anyway?

The word “allergy” means different things to different people. Allergies can be the reason you dread spring (what’s fresh air to others is your nightmare); why your digestive symptoms are a huge source of stress; or why skin reactions bring you down. Some people’s allergic reactions can be life threatening (anaphylactic). 

All are a symptom of an imbalance in immune function and too much inflammation.

An allergy, by definition, involves the immune system behaving in an abnormal way. When functioning optimally, our immune systems can correctly identify potentially harmful particles we eat, drink, touch, and inhale in the run of a day. Sometimes our systems lose that ability and start mounting unnecessary attacks against otherwise harmless molecules. The attack often involves the release of histamine and an inflammatory cascade follows. Various triggers combine to set the stage in motion - low nutrient intake, high intake of nutrient depleting and inflammatory foods, stress, genetics, environment, etc. can all be pieces of the allergy puzzle. So what can we do?

Identify Triggers and Avoid if Possible

If your allergy is anaphylactic it has to be avoided when all possible. Typically, anaphylactic allergies are easier to identify because the reaction is so immediate and severe. Other allergies, such as delayed food allergies, can be less obvious and may require elimination diets or further testing. Environmental allergies can also be challenging identify correctly. The Pear Tree docs use a variety of methods to identify allergies.

Quench Allergies thru Nutrition

Certain foods have been shown to ease allergy symptoms. Here are some foods with anti-allergenic properties: 

• Omega 3 rich foods such as flax oil, walnuts, sardines, spirulina, salmon, cod, and mackerel have significant anti-inflammatory and immune balancing effects. 
• Vitamin C and quercetin act to stabilize cells that release histamine. Foods such as apples, lemons, onions, parsley, turmeric, and thyme are rich in these nutrients. 
• As a potent antioxidant, Vitamin E rich foods, such as dark leafy vegetables, egg yolks, and flaxoil can be helpful 
• Raw foods rich in enzymes help breakdown inflammatory molecules. Including a wide variety of fruit and vegetables in your diet, especially papaya and pineapple, will ensure this benefit. 

A is for Allergies Smoothie

1 ripe Avocado

3 Apples - washed well, ideally organic, skin on

1 thumb sized piece ginger

1/2-1 lemon juiced

1 tablespoon flaxoil

4 cups greens

4 cups water

Blend in high powered blender until smooth. Makes 2 large servings.

A Comprehensive Approach

Depending on the severity of your allergy reactions, supplements may be necessary. Supplements that include therapeutic doses of the nutrients mentioned above (Vitamin C, quercetin, omega 3, and Vitamin E may be helpful).

It is always helpful to attempt to address the cause - and with allergies, inflammation and immune imbalance are probable. Improving liver function can help reduce toxic burden and inflammation in the body. A change of season cleanse may be ideal for you.

Immune support can help reduce allergy symptoms. Herbal remedies such as astragulus, burdock root, nettles, and various mushrooms all provide immune benefits.

Digestive function plays an important role in managing allergies. Balanced gut flora is essential and probiotics and/or fermented foods can help.

Naturopathic medicine offers a range of solutions to seasonal and year-round allergy sufferers. Homeopathy, herbal medicine, detoxification support, and acupuncture can all effective in preventing and relieving allergy symptoms. 

Addressing your allergies naturally offers benefits that extend far beyond allergy season and, over time, can rebalance the immune system and eliminate allergies all together!

Visit Dr. Blake today for a naturopathic approach to your allergies.