Here are our Naturopath’s top tips for reducing your allergies:
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Limit the foods you know you should not be eating and increase seasonal fruit and veggies.
70% of our immune system is regulated in our gastrointestinal tract (GIT).
When we consume foods that upset our body it can cause inflammation in the GIT and result in the GIT lining wall being broken down and allowing larger molecules to pass through that would not normally be able to pass through to the blood stream. Avoiding eating these known triggers can prevent uncomfortable symptoms and increase your body’s natural immunity. Aim for healthy food 80-90% of the time and keep hydrated with water to flush out toxins.
Some common symptoms:
Diarrhoea, constipation, sneezing, hives, rash, difficulty breathing, bloating, lethargy, flatulence, nausea, pain and discomfort.
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Reduce Stress
Stress exacerbates the allergic response.
A 2011 study found that 75% of visits to a physician’s office were stress related.
Stress causes inflammation and makes the body more susceptible to infections, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, cardiovascular disease, asthma, sympathetic nervous system activity, sleep disturbance, cancer and pain.
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Improve sleep quality
Sleep strongly effects the immune system.
Protein synthesis and cell proliferation are involved in immune activation which require energy. The hormonal changes that occur during sleep allow energy-rich fuels like glucose to be allocated to the immune system.
Inflammation also leads to oxidative stress and cell injury that are efficiently counteracted by melatonin scavenging free radicals that are released when asleep.
By focusing on improving these 3 areas of your life you can reduce your chance of catching a cold or flu this season, reduce the severity of seasonal rhinitis, increase energy levels and improve your overall health.
Kim Sheppard is a Naturopath and Yoga Instructor at Embrace Life. To book your consultation with Kim, call 3491 6533 or book online.
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