Got Allergies? These Foods May Help Symptoms

1 min

If you have asthma, allergies or both, an anti-inflammatory diet to help calm the immune system is a good first step in addressing the root of the problem. Its mainstays – healthy protein, lots of organic fruits and vegetables, plenty of water, and the elimination of processed foods, partially hydrogenated oils, white sugar and flour – can help to relieve symptoms and avoid possible triggers of allergies and asthma. My updated Anti-Inflammatory Diet Food Pyramid is a good place to start. There are also many examples of the patients of our integrative medicine providers that see improvement upon eliminating gluten and dairy from their diet, andis always worth a three- to four-week trial.

You may also want to consider using standard medical treatment selectively, trying to avoid suppressive medications (such as oral steroids as shots or pills) as much as possible. Instead, use mind-body medicine such as guided imagery or clinical hypnosis, and experiment with homeopathy as well, especially for children with allergies or asthma – they tend to respond favorably to this form of treatment. If symptoms persist, consider  herbal supplements containing stinging nettle and quercetin, as they can be just as effective as the medications. They can be taken just when needed, or on a daily basis during your common seasonal periods. If you are not finding relief though, do not suffer and compromise your airway. Work with your doctor to manage the condition with medications while continuing to work on the root issues with the options above.

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