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Eat Right, Breathe Better?

March 22, 2015

You’ve heard about food allergies, of course. Wheat, egg, milk and peanuts are among the substances that can send quite a few folks into reactions that are quite hard to swallow. But did you also know that some foods can actually help with allergies of the airborne type? When airborne particles are causing a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and more, try taking a bite out of your breathing trouble with strategic dietary selections.

For example:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids

    have “anti-inflammatory” properties. Look for these in cold-water fish (wild salmon, mackerel, trout, herring and sardines), walnuts and flaxseed. Try two servings of the fish weekly year-round, bumping up to three servings during allergy season. Also recommended daily: 12 walnuts and a teaspoon of ground flaxseed.

  • Spicy foods

    can help clear your sinuses. Think hot salsa, green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.

  • Fruits high in Vitamin C

    are edible antihistamines and antioxidants too. Include two pieces of Vitamin C-enriched fruit in your diet daily. When congested, an orange, an apple, or servings of watermelon, grapes or strawberries could be just what the doctor ordered.

  • Nuts

    like almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts add a delicious touch to your dishes and can also help minimize inflammation as good sources of Vitamin E.

  • Black tea

    contains flavonoids, an antioxidant from water-soluble plant substances, that can relieve your immune system. Green tea is also a source of antioxidants and reduces the production of histamine. Don’t forget foods high in zinc, which feed antibacterial and antiviral effects. How about a half dozen oysters or shrimp each week – and more often when allergies are in full swing? During those times, try a serving of whole grains and beans too.

While you’re adding foods to your diet to improve your allergy symptoms, you’ll also want to keep in mind some food groups to avoid. Milk products are at the top of the list because they can cause a thickening of mucus in the nasal cavities. A glass of milk, slice of cheese or cup of yogurt can actually make you feel more stopped up.

Also, sodas with caffeine and alcoholic drinks dehydrate the body and can make symptoms worse. Hydrate your body instead with eight glasses of water a day.