The treatment of allergies usually involves over-the-counter medication like antihistamines, but lifestyle changes can also assist to relieve symptoms like nose dripping and eye watering, says spokesperson for the Association of Dietetics in South Africa, Jandrí Barnard.
“Adjusting dietary choices may allow your body to reduce inflammation and allergic response to savour this beautiful flowering season and not only sneeze your way through,” says Barnard.
Barnard shares a suggestion of five foods to help relieve allergies this season:
Ginger: Barnard says that ginger relieves inflammatory symptoms like swelling and irritation in the nasal passages, eyes and throat naturally. “It contains antioxidative, anti-inflammatory phytochemical compounds.”
Citrus: Oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes, are high in vitamin C. Good ol’ C has been shown to decrease allergic rhinitis and the irritation of the upper respiratory tract caused by pollen from blooming plants.
Turmeric: Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory source containing curcumin, which is linked to reducing the symptoms of inflammation-driven diseases. You can sprinkle this in your food or even drink it in teas or pills, says Barnard.
Tomatoes: Barnard says that tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C. “It also contains another antioxidant compound called *lycopene, which is more easily absorbed in the body when it’s cooked. Use canned or cooked tomatoes for an extra boost.”
Oily fish: The American Heart Association recommends 230g of salmon, mackerel, sardines or tuna per week for adults to also increase their chance of allergy relief.
Try this recipe:
Barnard shares a vitamin C recipe to keep those allergies at bay. Vitamin C goes a long way. We know that orange juice is famous for being the drink that helps defend your immune system. We are not saying this drink will reduce allergies in all of its capacity but it can help.
*Health For Mzansi: Word of the Day
Lycopene: According to WebMD, lycopene is an organic pigment called a carotenoid and is responsible for giving fruits and vegetables their red colour, like water melon, pink grapefruit and tomatoes. It is also a great antioxidant that might help protect cells from damage.
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ALSO READ: A banana (or two) a day will keep all ills at bay
Ingredients
- 2 oranges, quartered and peeled
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 5 – 8cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Add all the ingredients in a high-power blender and blend on high until all the ingredients are smooth and mixed.
2. A cup of water can be added optionally for a more juice-like smoothie. Enjoy!
