HAYFEVER: WHY IT IS YOUR GUT (NOT YOUR NOSE) THAT NEEDS HELP

It is well established that hay fever and other allergies are associated with immune regulation in conjunction with our gut function and health.

Typical symptoms of allergy and hay fever include, sinus congestion, sneezing, nasal congestion or obstruction, nasal secretions, headaches, pressure or pain around cheekbones and teeth and itchy nose and eyes just to name a few.

Nutrient and herbal supplementation aims to not only correct underlying causes but also to alleviate symptoms.

So what do nutrients and herbs can we use?

Vitamin D – this a key nutrient in immune function and many other systems. Some key actions highlighted in clinical trials include:
– improvement in gut microbiota
– improves the function of the intestinal or gut barrier
– regulates intestinal inflammation
– improves immune responses.
Low levels of vitamin D have also been associated with and increased occurrence of allergic rhinitis, particularly in children.

Vitamin C and zinc – are both key nutrients for regulating immune function as well as assisting in wound healing. Ziinc deficiency associated with an increase in gut permeability (leaky gut).

Quercetin – is a flavonoid found in some plant based common foods such as onions, buckwheat and apples and is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. One of the main properties of quercetin is its ability to stabilise mast cells which are cells that release over 200 chemicals such as histamine and cause symptoms associated with allergy.

Perilla – is a herbal medicine that has anti-allergic properties with and has been shown effectiveness in receiving seasonal allergy symptoms associated with rhinitis.

This is some of the nutritional and herbal support offered as part of treatment however there are many more beneficial options that are very effective.

Assessment of dietary intake and possible triggers also needs to be investigated as intolerances or food sensitivities can continue to exacerbate symptoms.

It is important to ensure that there are adequate levels of key nutrients which can be identified through testing.

Dosages of nutrients do need to be monitored as even some nutrients can have adverse effects when exceeding upper limit levels.

If you have any questions or would like to book a FREE, no obligation 20 minute health assessment please Phone 1300 173 633 or book online.