HEALTH & WELLNESS — Spring 2014
Spring and autumn are probably our two favourite times of year. For some, autumn is probably just ahead of spring, because for them spring can bring allergies and itchy, irritated skin.
Springtime exposes our skin to invisible airborne allergens like pollen, which can cause the body to release chemicals called histamines. This can lead to a variety of inflammation-related symptoms, including watery eyes, sneezing and a runny nose. Another symptom is itchy skin. Higher levels of histamine can lead to the skin being more reactive and can even trigger eczema and allergies. If you suffer from spring allergies, here are a few tips you may find helpful:
- Eat Right According to Leonard Bielory, M.D., American College of Asthma and Immunology, “Avoiding certain foods and adding more of others can affect your likelihood of developing seasonal allergies, as well as the severity of your symptoms.” Avoid foods high in histamines like mackerel, herring, sardines and tuna. Fermented, aged and processed meats and cheeses are also high in histamine. Avoid pro-inflammatory foods like milk proteins and the trans fats and polyunsaturated fats found in many processed or takeaway foods. Eat lots of vegetables, fruits and foods high in omega-3 fats, such as walnuts and ground flaxseed. Consumption of these foods will help decrease inflammation.
- Stop/reduce your alcohol intake Many may not be aware that there is naturally occurring histamine in alcohol, created during the fermentation process. Wine, beer and champagne contain the highest concentration of histamine. Drinking them could exacerbate your symptoms.
- Drink lots of water to keep mucus membranes in top working order.
- Strengthen your immunity with our one of our favourite products: Fortified Defence. This powerful blend containing two of nature’s strongest natural health aids — wild oregano and fresh olive- leaf extract — will ensure that your immune system functions optimally.
- Use MyNewSkinUF7 to reduce your allergy-related symptoms. MyNewSkinUF7 contains fresh chickweed and salad burnett to help soothe skin irritations.