The best foods to alleviate the effects of allergy

We are in the middle of spring, and plant pollen invades public avenues and parks. With him, for a few weeks the usual condition of every year for all allergies has begun. Red eyes, nasal congestion, wet coughs, and sore throat They are the most common symptoms for which hundreds of people daily must take specific medication for this kind of condition.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, it occurs when the body's immune system reaction overreacts to certain substances as being potentially dangerous when they are not. "When the body encounters an allergen, such as pollen or just dust, a chemical cascade reaction takes place that leads to the activation of some cells specific to the body, which release more chemicals, including histamine, "he explains. Stacey Galowitz, a New Jersey allergy specialist, to 'The Healthy'. "These chemicals marry the annoying inflammation that comes with allergy symptoms."

A study found that ginger suppressed cytokine production, slowing down mast cell activation, and alleviating the symptoms of allergy.

The most common options for treating symptoms are antihistamines. And despite the fact that some foods can also cause allergic reactions, such as butter, seafood or milk, There are also others that can protect you from the effects of pollen and other environmental factors. This is the opinion of Robin foroutan, a dietitian at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. "A good strategy is to be able to mitigate the effects of allergy with foods with antihistamine properties," he says.

The bad news is that, like other natural remedies to treat certain diseases, there is not yet solid research that certain foods are actually effective in treating symptoms. But since these are organic products that are available to anyone, tasty and not particularly expensive, you lose nothing by including in your diet this series of provisions that we will explain below. And, within a few days, tell us in the comments below if they really have worked to remit some of the symptoms.

Ginger

An infusion of this root is not only good for treating allergies, but also colds and tonsillitis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. A 2016 study found that ginger suppressed the production of certain cytokines that cause mast cell activation, thus alleviating the symptoms of alegia. Therefore, the best thing you can do is, as we said, a preparation of this product for an infusionAlthough you can also add it as a dressing for your dishes or salads.

Turmeric

Another spice that is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. "The active component of turmeric is curcumin, a chemical that reduces inflammation as well as inhibiting histamine released by mast cells," explains Galowitz. A 2016 study published in 'Annals of Allergy, Ashtma & Immunology' found that it could also relieve nasal congestion, in addition to have a positive effect on the immune system of allergic patients. Turmeric can be taken as pills, infusions or as a dressing for excellent dishes. Above all, it is widely used in oriental and Indian cuisine when preparing rice and stands out for its bright orange or yellow color.

Vitamin C

This vitamin is contained in countless foods, especially citrus. "This component acts as a natural antihistamine By inhibiting cells that release histamine, "Galowitz stresses." Furthermore, it is an antioxidant, which means it counteracts the inflammatory response produced by allergy. "Where can we find it? In broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and especially in oranges or kiwis.

Tomatoes

They also contain high levels of vitamin C, but not only for that reason they are antiallergens. "Tomatoes are also full of lipocene, another antioxidant that reduces inflammation," says the doctor. Similarly, we can find it in fruits such as watermelon or red grapes. The American National Library of Medicine recognizes that it can benefit lung function in people with asthma. So, don't forget to add delicious tomatoes this spring to combat the uncomfortable allergy symptoms.

Salmon

"High-fat fish like samón or sardines can fight inflammation caused by allergy thanks to its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acidsGalowitz notes. "These fats help stabilize cell membranes, reducing the chance that they will release histamine." A 2007 study published in the 'Journal of the American College of Nutrition' found that women who eat more fish They have lower fever rates caused by allergies, so do not hesitate to put this delicious fish in your shopping basket. can be grilled or baked, as you prefer. What he is sure of is that it is one of the healthiest and richest fresh products on the palate.