Tips to Help Manage Hayfever

21 Nov Tips to Help Manage Hayfever

We’re finally seeing a bit more sunshine, however after a wet winter, comes a sneezy spring in south-eastern Australia, with this hayfever season predicted to be the worst in years. 

Experts have warned winter rains will have caused increased grass growth, meaning more pollen in the air in the coming months.  Many of my patients have recently described symptoms of hayfever – even though they may not have suffered previously!

So here are some tips to help manage those awful hayfever symptoms!

• Boost your overall immune health so the body can fight off those bits of pollen that fly up your noses and into your eyes without causing an over-reaction/allergy.
• Foods to boost immunity and reduce allergic reactions are those high in vitamin C.  Aim for more citrus fruits, chilli peppers, red and green capsicum, kale, broccoli, papaya, strawberries, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, pineapple, kiwi fruit and mango.
• Aim to avoid foods which are high in histamines such as pickled or canned foods, mature cheese, smoked meat products (ham, salami, sausages), shellfish, beans and pulses (chickpeas, soy beans), nuts (walnuts, cashews, peanuts), chocolate, vinegar, salty snacks and foods with high preservatives and artificial colours.
• Getting a chiropractic treatment or massage may help ease sinus pressure and promote lymphatic drainage.
• Consult with your healthcare practitioner – such as your Naturopath or Chinese medicine practitioner.  They may be able to advice you on supplements and herbs to further support your immune system.