Relief from summer sneezing

Jul 12 2008 by Katherine Neal, The Journal

IF you’re a hayfever sufferer you can dread the warmer months approaching. Runny noses and itchy eyes can be uncomfortable.

In fact, for many people, hayfever can make life miserable. Also known as allergic rhinitis, it is an allergic condition occurring when high concentrations of grass and flower pollens are released into the air. As the weather gets warmer, the pollen concentration in the air we breathe increases. Hayfever causes hypersensitivity of the eyes, nose, throat and sometimes the skin. Symptoms tend to be at their worst in the morning, and then in the evening.The symptoms are caused by the release of histamine, triggered by over-reaction of the immune system to substances that should normally be tolerated. House dust, dust mites and animal fur can trigger symptoms.

Supporting your immune system by making good dietary choices could help reduce symptoms, while packing your diet with fruit and vegetables is essential. Vitamin C is thought to have natural anti-histamine effects, so include berries, kiwi fruit, peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, red onions, citrus fruit, berries and apples. These all contain quercetin, a flavanoid that acts as an anti-histamine. Beta Carotene plays a role in healthy mucous membranes and foods rich in this include broccoli, asparagus and apricots. Garlic is great for reducing catarrh! Up your consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Have at least three servings of fruit, a mixed salad and three portions of vegetables daily.

If you eat fish, salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring are all good sources of omega 3 essential fats. For vegetarians, try pumpkin seeds, flax seeds and walnuts.

Nutritional therapy is a natural approach to restoring good health through the use of supplements. For information, contact Katherine Neal (0191) 215-9292, www.nutritionalknowhow.com