Itchy eyes, a runny nose and relentless sneezing? I am hearing a lot of this out there in Melbourne right now.
Hayfever is an allergic reaction that may be triggered by pollen, mould, animal dander, dust and similar allergens. It can be seasonal (pollen and grasses) or perennial, showing up all year round thanks to dust mites, feathers, pets and mould.
Beyond the sneezing, hayfever can also bring watery eyes, nasal congestion, headaches, cough, fatigue and, for some people, asthma flare-ups.
How Nutrition Can Help:
The goal is to support your immune system, calm inflammation and modulate your body’s histamine response.
Targeted nutrition support may help to reduce how often episodes occur and how intense they feel.
Foods To Include:
Pineapple: contains bromelain, an enzyme that may help to thin nasal mucus and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Ginger and fresh salmon (not smoked): both support a calmer inflammatory response.
Garlic, onions, horseradish, wasabi and chilli: traditionally used to help clear mucus.
Quinoa: a source of quercetin.
Water: aim for at least 2L of filtered water a day to help keep mucus thin.
It is also worth considering your overall histamine load from food, as this can add to symptoms for some people.
Nutrients Worth Knowing About:
Three of my favourite nutrients for seasonal allergy support include:
Quercetin: helps to stabilise mast cells and limit histamine release.
Vitamin C: supports immune function and has antihistamine activity.
NAC: may also help by promoting mucociliary clearance.
Other nutrients to consider include zinc, vitamin E, vitamin D and bromelain.
Supplements are not one-size-fits-all. As always, please check with your healthcare practitioner first to make sure they are right for you and safe alongside any medications or other supplements you take. The correct form and dosage are also important to get right.
Aaaaachooo!
Hayfever does not have to ruin your spring. With the right food choices and personalised support, many people notice fewer and milder episodes.
Struggling with hayfever? I can help with that!
Consider booking in an appointment with me at Uprise Health in Richmond or via Telehealth Australia-wide, and we can build a plan that suits you.
Ready to take the next step, but have some questions first? Book a free no-obligation 15-minute Discovery Call to discuss your biggest health concerns and learn how clinical nutrition can support your gut health journey.
Katie practices at: Uprise Health, 136 Lennox Street, Richmond, 3121, Victoria.
Appointments: Face-to-face and online (Australia wide)
Contact: admin@katiehopcraft.com.au
Areas of Special Interest: Gut health, hormonal health (perimenopause, PMOS, PMS, endometriosis), and fertility (preconception care, pregnancy and post-partum support).
The information provided in this blog is for your personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. It should not be considered as medical or professional advice. We recommend you consult with a GP or other healthcare professional before taking or omitting to take any action based on this blog. While the author uses best endeavours to provide accurate and true content, the author makes no guarantees or promises and assumes no liability regarding the accuracy, reliability or completeness of the information presented. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this blog are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this blog is done at your own risk.