As spring approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate warm weather and blooming flowers. However, this time of year can bring discomfort and frustration for those who suffer from spring allergies.
Sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose can put a damper on enjoying the outdoors. While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, they often come with side effects or become less effective over time.
Fortunately, there are natural ways to prevent spring allergies and even improve overall gut health, which plays a significant role in our immune system and body’s response to environmental triggers.
If you're wondering how to avoid allergies in the spring, let's explore some effective natural strategies to boost our body's resilience.
Keep the Air Clean
One of the simplest ways to prevent allergies is by maintaining clean indoor air.
- Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your home's HVAC system to trap pollen, dust, and other allergens.
- Consider using an air purifier to further reduce airborne particles.
- Keep a steady, comfortable temperature between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent humidity and moisture.
Clean Your Home
Along with keeping the air as clean as possible, have a consistent cleaning schedule to help prevent dust, mold, and mildew buildup in your home. A good spring cleaning can do wonders for your home.
- Wash bedding at least once a week.
- Wash rugs frequently.
- Dust and vacuum daily — especially if you have pets.
- Take out garbage and food waste frequently to prevent rodents and other pests.
- Wipe down wet areas (sinks, tubs/showers, and toilets) to prevent mold and mildew.
Limit Outdoor Exposure During Key Times
While we do encourage folks to get outside, it is important to know when pollen levels and other allergens might impact you most.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, tree and grass pollen levels are highest in the evening during spring and summer. As we move into late summer and early fall, ragweed pollen levels are highest in the morning.
To minimize exposure to potential allergens:
- Plan outdoor activities and lawn care when pollen counts are lower.
- Check daily pollen counts and try to stay indoors on days with high pollen.
- Keep windows and doors shut to prevent pollen and other allergens from making their way inside
It’s also a good idea to avoid going outside when neighbors and work crews are tackling outdoor projects. Things like tree removal, yard work, and construction can stir up dust and pollen.
Support Your Gut Health
Our gut plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system, and ongoing research suggests a link between gut health and allergies. Therefore, it’s important to nourish our gut through diet and supplements to help reduce allergic responses naturally.
- Consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
- Prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions, bananas, and oats provide fuel for beneficial gut microbes.
- Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, walnuts, and berries into your diet can help reduce the body's allergic response and support immune function.
- Supplement your diet with Somaya Life, which goes beyond typical probiotic supplements with 10 Smart StrainsTM of good bacteria chosen to boost digestive health.
If you need some inspiration, check out these delicious gut-healthy salads to help make mealtime more fun.
Stay Hydrated
Much like when you have cold and flu symptoms, staying hydrated can help. Drinking water helps replace what your body is naturally losing and helps thin mucus secretions, making it easier to expel allergens from the body.
- Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Adjust as needed based on your personal health and activity levels.
- For added relief, consider hydrating herbal teas (like peppermint or chamomile) or warm broth.
Nasal Irrigation
Clearing your nasal passages can help ease congestion and reduce allergy symptoms.
- Use a neti pot or nasal irrigation bottle to gently flush out irritants, and provide quick relief from nasal symptoms.
- Take a warm shower or hold a warm compress over your face and breathe in the steam
Stay Healthy Naturally During Allergy Season
By taking proactive steps to prevent allergen exposure and support our body's natural defenses, we can enjoy the beauty of spring without the discomfort of allergy symptoms. Incorporating these natural remedies into your routine and maintaining good gut health can help you breeze through the season with ease.
Remember to listen to your body and consult with a professional if you have any concerns or persistent symptoms. Here's to a happy and allergy-free spring!
