It’s that time of the year again! Flowers are blooming, trees are blossoming, and sadly noses are running. Seasonal allergies can be really debilitating, so it’s good to try different methods to combat the dreaded eye itch. Everyone is different but here are five ingredients that may reduce the symptoms of hay fever…
1. Garlic
This one is a pretty easy one to add to dinner! Garlic is an anti-oxidant rich probiotic which is good for your overall wellbeing and digestion. It is also anti-inflammatory and has been shown to inhibit histamine release which may reduce your symptoms and their severity.
2. Ginger
Many of the worst symptoms of hayfever result from inflation (itchy eyes and nose, sore throat, etc.). Ginger is proven to contain anti-inflammatory ‘phytochemical’ compounds and antioxidants that help suppress the inflammatory response to allergens.
3. Turmeric
It looks like a curry could be the best option this spring! Turmeric is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties thanks to its active ingredient, curcumin. The impact of turmeric on hay fever in humans has not been investigated a lot but early studies are promising.
If you’re not a fan of curries, first of all, why? Secondly, you can take it in supplement pills or teas.
4. Onions (Particularly Red Onion)
Onions are a source of quercetin which is a bioflavonoid. Bioflavonoids are an intrinsic component in fruit and veg. So what are they good for? You guessed it, they are an antioxidant generally used for inflammatory conditions! The quercetin content of onions is reduced when you cook them and the highest concentration of quercetin is found in red onion. There’s only one thing for it, guacamole!!
5. Kale
Leafy greens are great for most things including hay fever! Kale is rich in carotenoids which fight inflammation and inhibit the release of histamine! If you don’t fancy a kale salad, give kale chips a try.
How Can FoodLama Help?
If you need to keep up to date with the ingredients lists of your favourite products, download FoodLama! You can input the dietary requirements for your household so that you can chill out and let FoodLama label check.
