The Hay Fever Diet

For everyone, especially those will an illness or aliment, it seems as if the doctor will often state the importance of an appropriate diet and frequent exercise. For some things, this can be a very specific diet, such as the DASH diet for those needing to lower blood pressure and the BRAT diet for many pediatric patients. But is there a diet, or any dietary recommendations to help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.

The Hay Fever diet-

Also derived as the Mediterranean diet because, as will be stated, the diet consists of many fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts and other high antioxidant loaded foods.

Dig In

 Because hay fever is results in inflammation, it is advised to eat foods that have anti –inflammatory properties.

            Nuts- With a high amount of magnesium and vitamin E, nuts can help improve lung function, which is especially beneficial to asthmatics as well. Also because Vitamin E boosts the immune system, it can help the body fight against URIs (upper respiratory infections), and from damaging free radicals, which also cause inflammation.

             Apples, Oranges, Tomatoes, and other Vitamin C fruits- Because Vitamin C is an antioxidant, has many of the properties like Vitamin E such as protecting the body from free radicals thus reducing potential oxidizing tissue inflammation and damage.

Grapes (Red with skins)- Grapes are also filled with antioxidants, but also have resveratrol, which is the same chemical in red wine that gives it some healthy heart benefits when taken in moderation.  Resveratrol works not only for Hay Fever by reducing inflammation, but can also lower LDLs, the “bad cholesterol”.

            

            Fish- Cold-water fish, algae, and supplements, have high amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, which are believed to reduce inflammation in the body. Some of the popular fish diet options include salmon, mackerel, trout, herring, sardines, and albacore tuna. Fish oil or omega-3 supplementations are also believed to be as beneficial.

            

           Tea- Especially a hot tea with lemon or honey is usually recommended for those with hay fever first thing in the morning. Some anti-inflammatory compounds in teas, flavonoids, work along with boosting immunity as well. Tea also works by “waking up” the cilia, the tiny hairs in the nasal passageway, to sweep out the pollen and dust. This will also allow mucus to flow more naturally therefore decreasing stuffiness or the morning sneeze attacks. 

Proceed with Caution

Spicy foods work well by be easing congestion and thinning mucus, but can be harmful by irritating the throat which may cause even more excessive mucus and cough. These include; Cajun spices, Garlic, and Horseradish

Steer Clear

Margarine is made of artificial unhealthy fats, which boost inflammation. A diet high, or even containing margarine, is stated to increase the risk of having allergies and respiratory wheezing.