Hayfever

These are all the signs of the start of spring/summer for some people. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever as it is more commonly known, is caused when the body makes allergic antibodies (IgE) to a substance such as pollen and this exposure causes the release of chemicals from cells in the nasal pathways, eyes and airways. This leads to inflammation and irritation to the lining of the eyes, nose and throat. Some people will try to avoid the specific allergen they are sensitive to and others may take anti-histamines. These do not always work for everyone though.

Allergic reactions to pollen are the identified cause of hay fever but there can be other factors that make one person more likely to sneeze than another. The incidence of hay fever has risen dramatically in cities compared with rural areas, which led to the discovery that pollutants such as exhaust fumes prime the immune system to react.
The three most common substances reacted to are pollen, wheat and milk. There is no proven connection but it is interesting that they are all originally grass products. So some hay fever sufferers may become sensitised to proteins that are common to grains, grasses and possibly milk. If you eliminate any food sensitivities, the body is better able to cope with inhaled allergies. It is about relieving some of the burden on your body and bringing the body back into balance.

Everyone is individual and as a Naturopathic Nutritionist and Kinesiologist I would look into the wider picture for each individual and consider many things before deciding on what will specifically help that person. However there are some general things that can be considered when looking for ways to alleviate the misery of hay fever:

• Consider eliminating or at least limit wheat, dairy products and alcohol
• Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables
• Eat seeds rich in selenium and zinc
• Avoid or reduce exposure to pollen and traffic fumes
• Increase water intake – aim for 2 litres of plain water daily – staying well hydrated will help to keep histamine levels regulated
• Supplement with Vitamin C which helps to control excessive histamine levels