allergies have compromised immune function. In this case, acupuncture works with the body to bolster the production of white blood cells and strengthen the immune system’s resistance to infection by increasing its lymphocyte count and activity. Recent research has examined some of the mechanisms of acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory effects which include down-regulation of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body that can enhance and prolong inflammatory response.
urmeric: This root has very • T strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. It comes in supplement form but it is also worth buying fresh turmeric root from the grocery store and using it in smoothies, soups, and other dishes. inger: This plant is another • G natural antihistamine and decongestant. It may provide some relief from allergy symptoms by dilating constricted bronchial tubes. uercetin: This is a flavonol, a • Q plant-derived nutrient, that can reduce allergic reactions through its antihistamine effect. It also decreases inflammation and is found in apples, cranberries, grapefruit, grapes, pears, spinach, kale, and cabbage.
Nutrition Nutrition plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system. It is wise to limit products that cause excess inflammation in the body. These high histamine instigators include alcohol, tobacco, sugar, wheat, dairy, caffeine, saturated fat, smoked meats, and highly processed foods. There are many foods with strong anti-inflammatory properties. These include:
• L ocal, raw honey: This sweet nectar can help allergy symptoms by regularly exposing you to local pollen–not unlike the concept of how allergy shots work. Allergy injections help desensitize pollen-allergic people by exposing them to a specific pollen.
agnesium: This essential min• M eral may open constricted airways in asthma by relaxing the muscles around the bronchial tubes. Sources of magnesium include almonds, spinach, avocados, oysters, seeds, and buckwheat. eta-Carotene: This helps boost • B immunity and keeps the respiratory system working optimally. It also is a powerful antioxidant and is found in sweet potatoes, kale, spinach, carrots, winter squash, and collard greens. itamin C: This vitamin has been • V shown to decrease production of histamine, thus reducing an immediate allergic episode. Green and red peppers, strawberries, kiwi, oranges, potatoes, and cabbage are all high in Vitamin-C.
Stay Hydrated It is important to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Studies have shown that when you are dehydrated, your body produces higher histamine levels and that drives allergies.
Exercise Exercise is recommended for proper function of the immune system and it can temporarily relieve nasal congestion. The increase in circulation clears sinus pressure and allows for easier breathing. Sinus congestion is also loosened by increased temperature in the body’s core. There are many natural remedies that can combat allergies by strengthening the immune system. To combat allergies more effectively, these practices should begin several months before allergy season. Treating the symptoms as they appear is a less effective than preparing the body ahead of time. Focusing on proper nutrition, supplementation, exercise, and methods that reduce inflammation in the body throughout the year will help prepare the body for allergy season so you can enjoy nature to its fullest, just as Henry David Thoreau did.
Natasha Kubis is a licensed acupuncturist and certified yoga teacher. For more information, visit essential-well.com
September 2019 | thesofiamagazine.com
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