Allergies

allergies_620_wideThe web, the newspapers and magazines are all announcing the coming of the allergy season! Pollen is mostly blamed for allergies, while other triggers such as mould and dust are also mentioned. We are told to use anti-histamines and decongestants to control allergies. However, is that really addressing the problem or are we just doing our very best to ignore what is going on below the surface?

In reality, allergies are an indication of the immune system being out of balance. The immune system is over-reacting: Sneezing, irritated eyes, sinusitis, a runny nose, chronic cough and skin reactions can all be part of this over-reacting. In spite of the well-known fact, that the immune system is in a state of unnecessary alarm, we keep on focussing on the triggers of the allergic reactions – pollen and co – and how to suppress the actual reaction. Instead, we should be looking at why the immune system is out of balance and what we can do to correct it.

5 things that can help to balance the immune system and reduce allergy symptoms:

  1. Stress management. Cortisol is one of our very important stress hormones. If the stress axis is out of balance, so is cortisol. Many are aware of the fact that cortisone as a medication will suppress allergic reactions and in the same way, but more gentle, our body`s own cortisol can help balance these reactions.
  2. Gut flora balance. The gut flora is the foundation of the immune system. If the gut flora is completely out of balance, the immune system will be too.
  3. Fatty acid balance.
    Omega 3 fatty acids help to balance the immune system by reducing over-reaction and still keeping it strong.
  4. Avoid toxins and junk that could overload the immune system. That way the extra load and potential irritation of pollen might go unnoticed.
  5. Ensure adequate intake of natural immune boosters and anti-histamines. These include vitamin C and zinc.

Allergy management and immune system balance is a long-term project. Mostly, if you start when the allergy season starts, your first allergy season will still require some extra reaction-management and symptom-support. The more aware you are of respecting your immune system and treating it kindly, the easier allergy-seasons will become.

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