BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY THIS ALLERGY SEASON: TOP FOODS AND TIPS

BY HEIDI MCIVOR ALLEN

Experiencing constant sneezing and wheezing can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand that seasonal allergies occur because your body is striving to protect you. For those affected, allergy season can be especially tough, making outdoor activities challenging due to symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Building resistance to allergic reactions is key to managing their impact.

“When you change one thing, you have the ability to change EVERYTHING.”

TECHNIQUES FOR STRENGTHENING YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

1. Exercise Regularly

Engaging in consistent physical activity can bolster the immune system and reduce inflammation, potentially easing allergy symptoms. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

Regular exercise not only decreases inflammation, but also enhances circulation, aiding the body in eliminating allergens and irritants more effectively. However, during periods of high pollen counts, minimize outdoor exercise to prevent exacerbating allergy symptoms.

2. Get an Adequate Amount of Rest

Inadequate sleep can weaken your immune system, heightening sensitivity to allergies. Strive for seven to nine hours of sleep nightly to support a healthy immune system.

During allergy season, ensuring sufficient sleep may be challenging for those prone to allergic reactions. Maintain a comfortable bedroom environment—cool, dark, and quiet—and refrain from electronic device use at least one hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

3. Consider Supplements

When combating allergies, incorporating vitamins into your wellness regimen can provide added support to your immune system. Common vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and probiotics, may strengthen the body’s ability to fend off allergies. Nonetheless, it’s essential to proceed with caution before introducing new supplements into your routine. Consulting with your doctor beforehand is advisable, as certain supplements may interact with existing medications or pose other health risks. By discussing any new vitamins with your doctor, you can ensure they are safe and beneficial for your specific needs, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and achieve optimal well-being.

4. Maintain Quality Hygiene

Practicing proper hygiene can help prevent the spread of allergies and minimize exposure time. Remember to consistently wash your hands, particularly after outdoor activities or contact with animals, and strive to avoid touching your face.

During allergy season, maintaining cleanliness with your pets is essential. Regular baths for dogs can reduce the allergens they bring indoors. Consider installing a HEPA filter in your home to aid in removing allergens from the air.

5. Eat a Good Diet

Maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial for a strong immune system. Your body relies on specific nutrients to combat allergies, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can provide these essentials. Vitamin C, abundant in citrus fruits, kiwis, and strawberries, is particularly beneficial for immune enhancement.

Incorporating foods rich in vitamin C and other immune-strengthening nutrients can be advantageous. Garlic and ginger possess anti-inflammatory properties that may alleviate allergy symptoms. Additionally, probiotics found in yogurt and kefir can support immune health.

5 IMMUNITY BOOSTING FOODS

1. Pineapple

2. Broccoli

Fed up with congested sinuses? Boost your intake of vitamin C with broccoli! Add raw broccoli to salads or pair it with hummus for a nutritious snack. Prefer cooked broccoli? Opt for steaming or microwaving to preserve its allergy-fighting vitamin C while keeping it delicious.

3. Greek Yogurt

Want to bid farewell to springtime sneezing? Greek yogurt’s probiotics harbor beneficial bacteria that can strengthen your body’s immune response. Add a handful of berries to your Greek yogurt for a flavorful boost and a dose of allergy-fighting vitamins.

4. Fatty Fish

Imagine enjoying the aroma of a fresh tuna melt without congestion! Combat throat and nasal swelling this allergy season by incorporating fatty fish into your meals, such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines. A study found that adults with higher omega-3 fatty acid intake had a reduced risk of seasonal allergies. Embrace fatty fish in your diet for relief.

5. Almonds

Almonds serve as a natural antihistamine by signaling your immune system to halt histamine production, helping you steer clear of seasonal allergy symptoms. Furthermore, their vitamin C and magnesium content work to alleviate inflammation in your nose and throat, promoting better breathing.

MCIVOR MARKETING ON HEALTH & WELLNESS

At McIvor Marketing we care about our employees, clients, families, and friends when it comes to both mental and physical health and wellness. Check back at our blog frequently for other new health and wellness tips.

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