Keep the Benadryl in your backpack, and look to these natural allergy remedies instead to stop that runny nose this spring. Supplementing your allergy medication with these food options could cut down on allergy symptoms altogether.
1. Get fishy.
Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation. A 2007 study by Thorax showed that mothers that regularly consumed fish during pregnancy had children who were less likely to develop asthma or other allergic diseases.
2. Deep purple.
Eat Anthocyanins, or in everyday terms, foods that are dark red or purple, such as beets, berries, cherries, and dark grapes, according to Michelle Cook of Care2. These Anthocyanins contain anti-inflammatory properties which are perfect for keeping seasonal allergies at bay.
3. Be a little spicy.
Dr. Oz was right about this one…spicy foods are magic when it comes to opening up your nasal passages. That's because the spice serves as a natural decongestant. While eating spicy salsa or curry won’t stop you from getting allergies, they can work to ease the discomfort surrounding sinus ailments.
4. Garlic goodness.
Raw garlic (yes, raw!) is a great source of minerals like calcium and phosphorus. It even contains the highest selenium content in any plant, a vitamin responsible for a healthy immune system, cognitive function, and male and female fertility. Raw garlic also contains several anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, according to a 1999 study by Oxford Journals. Ingesting the garlic raw was proven to hold the highest results in keeping allergies far, far away.
