Itchy, watery eyes? Constantly sneezing? Hello hayfever! Spring has arrived, and with it comes the annual struggle for those prone to seasonal allergies. But while nature can be challenging, it also offers plenty of remedies. You may be surprised to learn that what you eat and how you care for your body can significantly reduce the severity of your hayfever symptoms.
Understanding Hayfever
According to Allergy UK, around 30% of adults and 40% of children experience allergic rhinitis (the medical term for hayfever). Symptoms typically appear in March as tree pollen emerges, followed by grass pollen in late spring and weed pollen in summer. For some, the sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes may last well into September.
If you suffer from hayfever, you may experience:
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Blocked or runny nose
- Sneezing and coughing
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose, or ears
- Loss of smell
- Fatigue and headaches
Environmental Allergy Testing
At Total Health Now Clinic, we offer comprehensive Environmental Allergy Testing that screens for over 20 environmental allergens. We are proudly registered and authorised by the British Complementary Medicine Association and the British Institute of Allergy & Environmental Therapy. This test can provide valuable insights into your specific triggers, allowing for a tailored treatment plan.
Foods to Avoid During Hayfever Season
Certain foods can worsen hayfever symptoms due to their high histamine content or their role as histamine liberators. Some common culprits include:
- Fermented foods (e.g., vinegar, sauerkraut, yoghurt, miso, soy sauce)
- Canned fish
- Chocolate, tomatoes, and aubergines
- Strawberries, pineapples, bananas, and citrus fruits
- Wheat products (bread, pasta, cakes)
- Dairy products (milk, cheese)
- Sugary foods
Foods to Support Your Body Naturally
In contrast, some foods act as natural antihistamines or reduce inflammation. Incorporate the following into your diet:
Quercetin-Rich Foods:
- Onions, garlic, berries, apples, kale, and red grapes
Beta Carotene-Rich Foods:
- Sweet potatoes, carrots, butternut squash, broccoli, and spinach
Vitamin C-Rich Foods:
- Kiwis, blueberries, bell peppers, and blackcurrants
Additional Holistic Approaches
- Local Honey: Consuming local honey may gradually desensitise your body to pollen, reducing allergic responses.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and alleviate nasal congestion.
- Herbal Teas: Green tea, ginger tea, peppermint tea, and nettle tea are known for their anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Since hayfever triggers inflammation, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial. Foods like salmon, flaxseed, and walnuts can help calm your body’s response. Additionally, herbs and spices such as turmeric, ginger, and oregano offer powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.
Take Control of Your Hayfever Naturally
If you’re struggling with hayfever, consider a personalised, holistic approach. With our Environmental Allergy Test, we can identify your specific triggers and recommend tailored dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Our expert practitioners are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Total Health Now Clinic to schedule your allergy test or book a consultation. Breathe easier and enjoy the season with confidence!
