Spring is a beautiful season, but it can be an especially challenging time of year for families with allergy sufferers! When it comes to our kids, it’s good to know there are natural relief alternatives to boost the immune system and help manage allergy symptoms, while avoiding unnecessary additives.
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Natural Supplements for Relief From Seasonal Allergies
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine. When exposed to allergens, the cells in our bodies produce histamine, which results in excess mucus production and allergy symptoms including runny nose and watery eyes. While over-the-counter antihistamines block histamine after it has been produced, vitamin C actually prevents the formation of histamine. Vitamin C also has significant immune-boosting properties, helping to shorten the duration of an illness and prevent infection. Vitamin C supplements often contain added bioflavonoids, enhancing the power to prevent histamine secretions and reduce allergy symptoms.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a powerful bioflavonoid that is also known to effectively inhibit histamine. Quercetin has strong antioxidant and antiviral properties and is helpful in preventing and treating colds and flu. Those of us who suffer from asthma, allergies, sinusitis, or bronchitis may find effective relief when using quercetin. This powerhouse nutrient is found naturally in the pigment of some foods including onions, apples, grapes and tea. Taking quercetin in supplement form is a good option to target allergies and other illnesses.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that occurs naturally in high amounts in pineapple. Bromelain helps to treat allergies by reducing inflammation, which calms our immune system’s response to allergens, and improves the overall speed of healing. Bromelain can also be an effective treatment for asthma, sinusitis, and digestive problems. Bromelain supplements are often combined with quercetin, as bromelain increases the bioavailability and absorption of quercetin to provide even more effective relief from allergy symptoms.
Other supplements that can be helpful in treating seasonal allergies for our families include probiotics, vitamins A and E, zinc, Omega-3 fatty acids, the herb nettles, flaxseed, and high-quality multivitamins. Natural allergy formulations for children and adults often contain a combination of nutrients to effectively target allergy symptoms. Some other natural treatments for allergies include nasal irrigation, acupuncture, and the use of essential oils.
Another important part of managing allergies naturally is being sure to get the proper nutrition. Parents of picky eaters know just how difficult it can be to get their children to eat healthy foods! It’s an important feat for our overall health, and we do know that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (and drinking plenty of pure, clean water) can help to reduce allergy symptoms.
People who suffer from seasonal allergies often suffer from food allergies or sensitivities. Minimizing inflammatory foods like excess sugar, dairy, wheat, and food additives can further promote allergy symptom relief. Read our post Seasonal Allergies and the Food Connection here.
When it comes to managing seasonal allergies, parents have a variety of options for their children. Some commonly found supplements can help to effectively manage allergy symptoms, without worry for potential unwanted side effects. Talk with your qualified health care professional if you have questions about using natural alternatives for seasonal allergies.
All blog content shared through HealthSmart! Kids is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always talk with your qualified health care provider for managing your health care needs.
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