Health & Fitness
Seasonal Allergy Relief Starts in the Kitchen
This time of year, Atlantans are reaching for medicine to relieve their seasonal allergy symptoms, but should they be reaching for food instead? Relief could be as cloes as your kitchen cabinets!
By: Lanier Dabruzzi, MS, RD, LD
This time of year, many Atlantans are reaching for medicine to relieve their seasonal allergy symptoms, but should they be reaching for food instead? Research shows that including certain foods in your diet may help to relieve your stuffy nose, congested head and watery eyes.
Start Off on the Right Foot
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According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most Americans are not getting enough foods that provide certain nutrients necessary for good health. These nutrients of concern are calcium, vitamin D, potassium and fiber.
Eating a healthy and balanced diet as outlined in MyPlate, can help prevent chronic disease and boost the immune system.
Start this allergy season off on the right foot by including low-fat and fat-free dairy, which provide 3 of the 4 nutrients that Americans are lacking in their diets, along with an abundance of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Recent research shows that low vitamin D levels are associated with increased allergy symptoms, such as sneezing and sinus infections. Now, that’s a reason to reach for a cold glass of milk!
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Got Bugs?
Probiotics are praised for a variety of nutritional benefits and research now suggests that they might play a role in seasonal allergy relief. A study published in The World Journal of Gastroenterology showed that consumption of probiotics helped to decrease the seasonal allergic response to pollen, specifically as it relates to nasal symptoms- such as a runny or congested nose. Yogurt and
yogurt drinks, such as Keifer, are rich in probiotics. Two types of milk, sweet acidophilus and buttermilk, also provide probiotics.
Spice Things Up
If you like spicy foods, you are in luck. Researchers say that reaching for spicy foods help to thin the mucous secretions and can clear nasal passages, so that you can breathe easier. Turn up the heat with Spicy Shrimp and Cheddar Spinach Salad or Firecracker Smashed Potatoes.
Next time you think there is no relief for your seasonal allergy symptoms, take another look at your diet. There just might be a delicious way for you to breathe clearly soon!