‘Tis the Season- - - To Stop Allergies in Their Tracks

by Dr. Laura Thompson

What most people don’t realize -- is that seasonal allergies can be eliminated, without OTC or prescription meds. Wouldn’t it be great to go through the fall and spring without sinus, throat or ear congestion? Better yet, wouldn’t it be great to put aside inhalers and steroid meds because you don’t need them? It is within your potential. We will discuss this, but first let’s look at the current picture.

It is spring; it is green; it is rebirth – AND allergy symptoms abound. We always have an influx of patients in our clinic, with springtime allergies. I’m sure you see this all around you, as well. It is no wonder that allergy medications are among the top five best selling drugs every year. People are looking for immediate relief – and who wouldn’t?

Recent estimates have found that there has been a 100% increase in prevalence of allergic rhinitis in developed countries, causing some experts to label it an epidemic. This epidemic is characterized by common symptoms of sneezing, nasal itching, runny nose, and congestion. Additionally, a person may experience headaches, impaired smell, snoring, sleep apnea, and low energy. Worsening of asthma, sinusitis (inflamed sinuses), otitis media (ear inflammation and infections), and many skin conditions, such as eczema can occur with allergies. Behavior and emotions may likely be affected. When you don’t feel well, you don’t always act “tip-top”.

The shame of it all is that most of the symptoms of allergies can be eliminated by following three steps:

1) Eliminate the offenders when you can – dust, mold, chemicals in your household and in your food.
2) Use natural anti-inflammatory and natural anti-histamine nutritional supplements.
3) Support sinus and lung drainage, lymphatic function, and immune strengthening.

These are the main focuses. No allergy meds can accomplish this. Surprisingly, most allergic conditions, rhinitis, asthma, sinusitis are of relatively recent origin, probably due to the increasing burden of toxins in our food and our environment. So there’s that clue again -- try to reduce the toxins you are exposed to through your food and in your home.

Natural treatments that support the immune system with antioxidants, natural antibiotic substances, nutrients and botanicals that relax the bronchials and support the lungs, lessen and often eliminate allergic symptoms and conditions. The conventional medical practitioners will tell you there is no cure for allergy-related conditions. “You just have to live with them.” They say that the origins of allergies are unknown. This is just an excuse for not having great success with their medical treatments. There is always a source of origin. It’s always logical.

The natural world offers great solutions. For both intermittent (seasonal) and persistent (perennial/year-‘round) allergies, the following are our suggestions:

1) Use your favorite nutritional supplements, containing natural antihistamines and natural anti-inflammatories. Look for ingredients such as quercitin, vitamin C, bromelain, papain, MSM and essential fatty acids.
2) Eliminate wheat, rye, oats, and barley products in the spring – grass season.
3) Watch for reactions to foods such as dairy, wheat, egg, soy, corn, citrus fruit, peanuts, and chocolate. These may accompany allergy and asthma conditions.
4) Avoid household chemicals, sprays, scented products, and pesticides. These can cause mucus congestion, bronchial inflammation, and spasms.
5) Eat foods high in the full vitamin C complex such as sprouts, sauerkraut, broccoli, tomato, fresh berries, and kiwi. These can strengthen your immune system.
6) People with allergies to grass pollens (hay fever) and foods such as bananas, avocados, kiwi, and chestnuts have cross-reactions to latex, because the proteins of these foods are very similar to those present in latex gloves.

Remember that your body is intelligent; symptoms are its way of telling you to pay attention. Know that it is within your power to be free of allergy and asthma symptoms, and – breathe a sigh of relief.
Dr. Laura Thompson, Family Nutritionist and Naturopathic Endocrinologist has a nationwide practice by phone, and locally in Carlsbad, California. Call for in-home testing info, 800-608-5602.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products suggested, are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please check with your health care practitioner for your best health options.