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Whether you're one of the millions already sniffling and sneezing, or you've never yet been bothered by seasonal allergies -- Hang onto your hankies! Several studies show that global warming is directly affecting pollen production. As our planet heats up, plants are responding by putting out more pollens leading to an increase in allergies and asthma. This year, botanists are predicting ragweed alone will be putting out 40% more pollen than it did just 10 years ago. As of April, Georgia and South Carolina have already begun to report unprecedented levels of pollens this Spring which has lead to doctors and hospitals being overwhelmed with allergy and asthma complaints. Here in the Great Lakes area, where there is more moisture, we are expecting a rise in mould spores as well as an increase in pollens.

"You are what you eat" and in some cases, "you are what's eating you." A proper diet and the occasional parasite/fungal cleanse can do wonders for reducing or eliminating allergies. Parasites and systemic fungus in particular can dramatically increase the allergy response in the body.

With regard to nutrition, a diet that is high in antioxidants and enzymes can help the body cope with an increase in irritants without triggering the allergy and asthma cascade response. The easiest way to get this nutrition is to divide your plate into four equal parts. Three parts needs to be fresh fruits and vegetables (raw or lightly steamed). The other quarter can be proteins, whole grains or other carbohydrates. Keep in mind that corn is grain and potatoes are treated as starches/carbs.

There are also a number of supplements and homeopathic remedies to help. Following are some of those options and what they do.

Vitamins A, C, E, Zinc and Selenium are the high antioxidants. Studies have shown vitamin C, E and Zinc to be the most helpful in combating allergies and asthma. Fruits like Noni, Acai and Mango are high in these antioxidants, as are garlic, onions and dark greens. Green drink or cilantro pesto are both great options, too.

B Complex - Almost all of the B vitamins have some roll to play in the functioning of the nervous, skin and immune systems. A good B complex twice daily is often helpful.

Flax seeds are high in the fatty acids GLA and EPA which our bodies need to combat inflammation. Just 1 Tablespoon of ground flax seed a day can do wonders for many of the body’s systems.

Pineapple - High in enzymes, particularly Bromelain which studies have shown it to reduce allergy symptoms

Fenugreek is one of the oldest recorded plants used for asthma, sinuses and allergy relief. Considered a nutritive herb, it is one of the few that are recommended for use with babies and pregnant women.

Stinging nettle - Contains carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin, which have an anti-inflammatory effect. Historically, nettle has been used as a diuretic and for the treatment of allergies, especially a runny nose.

Quercetin, a flavonoid found in red wine, Stinging nettle and green tea, has been studied for its ability to reduce the symptoms of allergies. Now Foods makes a product called Respir-All that contains a combination of allergy fighters like Bromelain, Quercetin, Nettle, Vitamin C, & Magnesium.

Nature’s Biotics - A combination of good intestinal bacteria and soil based organisms, we’ve seen some VERY impressive reductions in allergy and asthma response with this product.

Bromelian - If you have severe allergies, you may not be able to eat enough Pineapple to get the 4000 to 6000GDU of Bromelain needed to reduce the histamin response each day. Now Foods makes an excellent and inexpensive 2000GDU product.

AMS - High in Amylases, it helps to regulate and decrease the histamine response - Histamine is what causes itching, sneezing, and a runny nose.

SPS - Contains mucolases (part of the Protease family) that breakup congestion and mucus associated with sinus and lung issues.

PRX - Contains Mucolases, Serratiopeptidase, Nattokinase and minerals to support the immune system, liquefy viruses and bacteria and reduce inflammation in ear, nose, throat, sinuses and lungs. It can also very effectively clean arteries and reduce cholesterol, so anyone on Rx medication should consult a professional before using this product.

Allium cepa 30x- Great for watery eyes, runny/drippy nose (Symptoms that act like you’ve been slicing onions)

Urtica 12x - Good for stinging/burning and itching allergy complaints

BHI Sinus and BHI Allergy - Both excellent remedies on their own, but become even more effective when used to together to reduce allergies

Hayfever Pollen from NSP - Good for dealing with and eliminating allergies to various pollens if used regularly

BHI Asthma - Just like it sounds, great for decreasing asthma and COPD issues

GUNA– Allergy Prev -Great for allergies to grasses and weeds

Luffeel - A nasal spray that stops the body’s histamine production, it can also be sprayed on the tongue, into water for drinking or sprayed on itching skin/hives/ and bug bites

Detox Drops - Stage I for mild symptoms, Stage III for severe allergies & asthma

Eucalyptus, Ravensara, Sage, Peppermint and Marjoram are all known to help support the respiratory system. The Sinus Blend we carry in our office contains these oils along with some lemon and clove, two oils that help to clean and repair damaged cells.

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