Are you one of the 50 million Americans suffering from seasonal allergies every year?
If so, this article may change your life.
Did you know that it’s actually not normal to have these types of reactions to the outdoor environment?
Our ancestors lived outside for thousands of years without having such dramatic responses to pollen and other allergens.
So why are we struggling now?
To answer that, it’s important to understand the root causes of allergies and explore the best ways to alleviate them (without a lifetime supply of Zyrtec).
Histamine and The Immune Response
The immune system protects us with a network of cells such as Th1 and Th2 cells and functions best when they are well balanced.
Unfortunately for us, seasonal allergens stimulate a Th2 response leading to increased histamine production and release. Histamine is a compound produced by some immune cells that leads to subsequent inflammation and irritation, hence the reddened, swollen, itchy response.
Normally, this would be mild and shortlived, but when your immune system is already imbalanced or overstimulated, you’re reaching for the antihistamines just to get through the day.
So what are some of the underlying causes that are driving your imbalanced Th1 and Th2 systems?
The Real Causes of Seasonal Allergies
The root causes leading to allergies can be numerous and complex, but here are some of the most common ones I find needing to be addressed.
Chronic Infections
Chronic infections are very common and will cause an imbalance of the T cells. These may include fungal, bacterial, viral or even parasitic infections.
Poor gut health
Dysbiosis, “Leaky gut”, and inflammation from a poor diet will lead to altered immune function and even increase histamine production.
Blood Sugar Instability
High sugar intake and unstable blood sugar left unchecked will lead to insulin resistance, high cortisol, adrenal fatigue, and digestive dysfunction, all of which can weaken the immune response and alter Th cell balance.
Chronic Stress
Stress can drive Th2 dominance leading to increased inflammation and histamine. It can also deplete essential vitamins and minerals as well as disrupt digestion resulting in malabsorption, especially of healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.
Natural Strategies for Combating Allergies
While the root causes of allergies vary from person to person and may require additional help, there are natural strategies that you can begin on your own today.
Eating 30g of protein per meal
Avoiding highly processed and sugary foods is important but adequate protein intake is even more important. Shoot for 100g per day divided into 3 meals.
Regular exercise routine
Start with walking 30 minutes a day and increase time or intensity as tolerated.
Regular stress management
Deep nasal breathing, meditation or prayer, time in nature or silence, and even seeking counseling for ongoing struggles or processing your thoughts can have an extreme impact on your overall health.
High-quality Supplements
Vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, and cod liver oil are immune-supportive and antihistaminic.
Hypoallergenic Zone
Curating your environment will not address your root causes, but creating a healthy home environment while improving your health can be helpful.
- Replace household products with more natural, hypoallergenic versions – house and clothing cleaning products, cosmetics, bath products, lotions, etc.
- Using air purifiers to reduce dust and pet dander
- Use a dehumidifier for homes with high mold concentrations
By exploring a range of natural strategies, allergy sufferers may be able to find relief in a way that feels safer and more sustainable than relying on traditional medication.
Crush Your Stubborn Allergies with Functional Medicine
If you try these strategies but still find yourself suffering from allergies, it may be time to consult a natural doctor.
A functional medicine practitioner skilled in natural methods can help diagnose the root cause of your allergies and create an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs, without the use of medications.
Don’t let allergies control your life – take back control by exploring natural strategies or consulting with a functional medicine practitioner today!