Food Do's & Don'ts

The digestive system is the foundation for overall health and wellness. This complex system has even been referred to as our "second brain."  The strength of the immune system is directly connected to the digestive system and what we consume. By eating a healthy, nutrient rich, anti-inflammatory diet and eliminating refined and processed foods, not only can you help minimize the allergy response but reduce inflammation that is the root cause of many other illnesses. Pesticides and chemicals pose many health risks as well as exacerbate allergies, so eat local organic when possible especially when allergies flare up.

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Nutrients That Fight Seasonal Allergies

Load up on natural whole foods that contain allergy fighting nutrients. Keep in mind that almonds are on the cross-reaction list. If you have tree pollen allergies it is recommended you do not eat almonds. Even though resveratrol in red wine is recommended as an antioxidant, some red wines contains sulfates which can actually compound congestion.  It may be difficult to get these nutrients in your daily diet so taking supplements can be beneficial.

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​Food and Pollen Cross-Reaction Chart

It is beneficial to know the root cause of your seasonal allergies. If you know what triggers the release of histamine then you can avoid certain foods that may 'cross-react' with that allergen and minimize symptoms.

Sources:
​https://depts.washington.edu/ceeh/downloads/FF_Pesticides.pdf
https://draxe.com/seasonal-allergy-symptoms/ 
​http://blog.naturalhealthyconcepts.com/2014/06/03/12-nutrients-to-fight-allergies/
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