Allergies affect millions of people worldwide, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as sneezing, itching, congestion, and watery eyes. Conventional medications work by blocking the function of histamine which becomes overactive in response to allergens. While they can be effective, histamine is an important compound for fat mobilization in the body, which can affect one’s ability to lose weight or produce energy for athletic performance. This compound also aids in the healing effects of acupuncture treatment (and healing in general) as it allows healing nutrients to reach the affected tissues and therefore delay your ability to recover. In this blog, we’ll delve into natural ways to treat your allergies. We will show you how simple changes in your lifestyle such as staying hydrated, incorporating vitamin C into your diet, and consuming quercetin-rich fruits and vegetables can help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, we’ll discuss the relationship between these remedies and naturopathic medicine, nutrition, and athletic performance.
Hydration and Histamine Function:
- Staying hydrated plays a crucial role in managing allergies. When your body is dehydrated, it produces more histamine, a compound involved in allergic reactions. By maintaining adequate hydration, you can lower histamine production and potentially reduce the severity of allergic symptoms. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential for proper hydration. Additionally, consuming hydrating foods such as watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens can contribute to your overall hydration levels.
Tip: In the summer months, I like to consume an electrolyte mix that contains many essential minerals lost due to excessive sweating. The light flavour encourages me to drink more frequently, and the mix I use also contains vitamins and amino acids that my body needs to feel its best.
Vitamin C and Immune System Support:
- Vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties, can also help mitigate allergies. It acts as a natural antihistamine, reducing the release of histamine and subsequently alleviating allergic symptoms. Incorporating vitamin C-rich foods into your diet, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, can provide this beneficial nutrient. Alternatively, you can consider taking a vitamin C supplement, especially during allergy seasons or periods of increased susceptibility.
Tip: Consuming lemon water in the morning is a great way to get your daily requirement of vitamin C. This also helps with hydration in the morning (we sweat more than you think while we sleep) and improves your acidity levels which can aid in protein digestion.
Quercetin: Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory and Antihistamine:
- Quercetin, a flavonoid found in various fruits and vegetables, exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. By inhibiting the release of histamine and other inflammatory compounds, quercetin can help reduce allergy symptoms. Foods rich in quercetin include apples, berries, onions, kale, and broccoli. Consuming these regularly can provide a natural source of quercetin and potentially alleviate allergic reactions.
Tip: Fresh fruit seems to taste better in the summer months doesn’t it? With so much information about the positives and negatives of certain foods, we often forget to trust our body’s instincts. If you are concerned about the sugar, consume fruit with a fat and protein source (ex. Greek Yogurt) to balance the high glycemic effect.
Nutrition and Athletic Performance:
- Allergies can have a significant impact on athletic performance, affecting breathing, energy levels, and overall well-being. Incorporating natural treatment remedies for allergies, such as hydration, vitamin C, and quercetin, can be particularly beneficial for athletes. Optimal hydration supports efficient oxygen transport, while vitamin C and quercetin help reduce inflammation and histamine release, enabling athletes to perform at their best, even in the presence of allergies. Consulting with a sports nutritionist or naturopathic physician can help athletes tailor their diet and supplementation to maximize performance while managing allergies effectively.
When seeking natural treatment remedies for allergies, staying hydrated, incorporating vitamin C into your diet, and consuming quercetin-rich fruits and vegetables can be powerful allies in alleviating symptoms. These approaches not only offer natural ways to treat your allergies but also support overall well-being. Integrating naturopathic medicine principles and personalized nutrition plans into allergy management can provide individuals, including athletes, with a holistic approach to enhance their quality of life
