Beating Sinus and Hay Fever

Spring in Melbourne is a beautiful occasion, but for some it comes with allergic symptoms that can bring down the mood of the day. The triggers for these symptoms are generally sensitivities to pollen, however there are many underlying factors which can be addressed to reduce and alleviate, even prevent symptoms of HayFever.

In Naturopathy, we would address the level of inflammation in the body (which dramatically contributes to symptom severity), any nutritional deficiencies which may be present, identifying allergens and reducing sensitivity and histamine production through healing and enhancing gut function.

If you are prone to symptoms of sinus and hay fever, the following guidelines may be suitable for you.

Foods to reduce the production and quantity of mucous in the sinuses:

- Pineapple

- Mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds added to cooking

- Garlic and Onion and Ginger

Foods to reduce histamine:

Bioflavonoid foods - Red capsicum, strawberries, citrus, broccoli, spinach

Other things which may help:

- Chammomile steam inhalations (if there is no infection present).

- Cinnamon, Thyme, Peppermint in an oil burner

- Nettle Tea

More importantly, there are things you can do to prevent symptoms:

• It is essential to identify and remove food allergens or intolerances

• Stick to an anti inflammatory diet - get the junk food and high glycaemic foods out and fall in love with fresh vegetables and fruit. Foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates foods will dramatically increase inflammation and symptoms associated with Hay fever

• Did you know oestrogen can stimulate histamine production? talk to your Naturopath if you symptoms are worse during PMS

• Drink 2 litres of water per day

• Get your gut in good shape

Gut health is essential to overall health and sinus and hay fever are definitely no exception. The enterocyte cells in your bowel are responsible for energy production and supporting the health of the bowel wall / lining. In addition, these cells, when functioning at optimal levels, will break down histamine in the body.

Conditions like dysbiosis and leaky gut can sometimes be unnoticeable however will create immune dys-regulation and worsen or trigger hay fever and sinus infections.

Remember, good health always starts in the gut! Get your bowels in shape now to support a healthy and energetic Spring and Summer!