Foods That May Alleviate or Aggravate Allergy

The advantages of eating a healthy diet are widely-recognized but some may not be aware that ones food intake affects his or her allergies or hay fever. Among the good effects of a healthy diet is an enhanced respiratory system. If you are feeling the discomforts of nasal congestion right now, try to recall what you have been eating, or what you have not eaten. Nasal congestion can actually be assuaged by eating the right kinds of food. By consuming a healthy balanced diet, the body’ resistance to allergies may be heightened. Therefore, watching your food intake may be a simple way to help the body in its struggle against sinusitis and other respiratory infections.

Food items regularly found in Mediterranean cuisine like tomatoes, oranges, apples, grapes, and nuts, possess anti-inflammatory effects which can aid in the defense against allergies.

*Tomatoes, oranges, apples. A vital antioxidant, Vitamin C, can be obtained from these fruits. Vitamin C sourced from these fruits is aids in the fight against asthma and allergies. About fifty percent of the asthmatic population are also found to experience allergies, thus, making the antioxidant in these fruits more significant.

*Nuts. Nuts are rich in Vitamin E and Magnesium. Magnesium is a essential element to prevent wheezing and help improve lung function.

*Apples, Oranges and Tomatoes. The useful antioxidant Vitamin C can be obtained by eating these fruits. Vitamin C aid in safeguarding the body against asthma and allergies. One in two sufferers of asthma also suffers from an allergy, which is why the benefits of Vitamin C are very important.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

One more reserve worth noting in combating allergies is the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA that are obtainable from cold water fish like wild salmon, mackerel and albacore tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids abound in these marine products. But if fish do not appeal to you, you have the option of taking fish oil supplements which are rich resources as well.

Zinc

Zinc also performs a vital function in shielding the body against infection. The antiviral and antibacterial properties of this element boost the body’s immune system. Lean beef, tofu, whole grains and oysters are remarkable sources of Zinc.

Foods That May Improve or Exacerbate Allergies

Spicy foods are a double-edged sword; they may improve or worsen allergies. They can either make mucus less concentrated or cause throat irritation. Together with cough, more mucus may be discharged due to this.

*Cajun spice. Since it can stir up nerve fibers, Cajun spice, derived from cayenne peppers, is considered to naturally ease nasal congestion.

*Horseradish. Horseradish contains a substance commonly used in decongestants.

*Garlic. Playing a leading role in the kitchen, garlic is shown to dilute mucus, as well.

Read more on allergies and Celiac Diets