Legumes for Allergy Relief
- Madrid – Incorporating specific dietary changes, such as increasing fruit, vegetable, and omega-3 fatty acid intake, may help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms, according to Mónica Manzano, a professor...
- Manzano, though, emphasized that these dietary adjustments should complement, not replace, conventional medical treatments like antihistamines.
- “Including foods high in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, flavonoids, and carotenoids, can definitely help reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system,” Manzano said.
Dietary Changes May Ease Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
Table of Contents
- Dietary Changes May Ease Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
- Dietary Changes to Manage Seasonal Allergies
- What dietary changes can help with seasonal allergies?
- Which foods are rich in antioxidants and good for seasonal allergies?
- how do omega-3 fatty acids help with allergies?
- How does gut health relate to seasonal allergies?
- What foods should be avoided to help with allergies?
- What is a Mediterranean diet, and how can it help allergies?
- Are there any foods that might make allergy symptoms worse?
- Is personalized nutritional advice important for managing allergies?
- Should I take quercetin or nettle to help with allergies?
- Are there any risks with allergy supplements?
- Summary of dietary recommendations for seasonal allergies
May 3, 2025
Madrid – Incorporating specific dietary changes, such as increasing fruit, vegetable, and omega-3 fatty acid intake, may help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms, according to Mónica Manzano, a professor of Clinical Nutrition.
Manzano, though, emphasized that these dietary adjustments should complement, not replace, conventional medical treatments like antihistamines.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
“Including foods high in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, flavonoids, and carotenoids, can definitely help reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system,” Manzano said. She recommends citrus fruits like oranges and kiwis, berries such as blueberries and strawberries, red peppers, and green leafy vegetables like kale.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Manzano also noted that omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish like salmon and sardines, and in seeds like chia and flax, possess anti-inflammatory properties. These may provide partial relief from allergy symptoms triggered by pollen, mites, and other irritants prevalent in the spring.
Gut Health and Immunity
“Increasing the consumption of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables,as well as including prebiotic foods like garlic,onion,and banana,and probiotics like yogurt and kefir,can contribute to better immune regulation,” Manzano said. she added that these foods promote a balanced intestinal microbiota, which is key in the body’s response to seasonal allergens.
foods to Avoid
Manzano cautioned that excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods, high in saturated sugars and fats, can worsen the body’s inflammatory response, possibly exacerbating allergy symptoms.
Mediterranean diet Benefits
Following a Mediterranean diet, rich in legumes, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, along with adequate hydration, can help regulate allergic reactions and improve overall health, according to Manzano.
Potential Irritants
Manzano advised caution with birch pollen and fruits like apples, as they may increase irritation or throat itching in some individuals.
Personalized Advice
“In this situation, personalized nutritional advice is essential to prevent unwanted reactions,” Manzano said. she noted that substances like quercetin or nettle have been suggested as potential aids in reducing allergy symptoms, but stressed, “it is indeed always advisable to consult a professional before taking them.”
supplementation Caution
Manzano also warned against self-prescribed supplementation, citing potential risks. She explained that excessive intake of certain nutrients can be counterproductive,underscoring the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before consuming any supplements.
Dietary Changes to Manage Seasonal Allergies
This article explores the potential of dietary adjustments to alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms,based on recommendations from Mónica Manzano,a professor of Clinical Nutrition.
What dietary changes can help with seasonal allergies?
According to Mónica Manzano, incorporating specific dietary changes can help manage seasonal allergies. This includes increasing your intake of:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Omega-3 fatty acids
It is important to remember that these dietary changes should complement, not replace, conventional medical treatments like antihistamines.
Which foods are rich in antioxidants and good for seasonal allergies?
Foods high in antioxidants can definitely help reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Manzano recommends including these in your diet:
- Citrus Fruits: Oranges, kiwis
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries
- Vegetables: Red peppers, green leafy vegetables like kale
how do omega-3 fatty acids help with allergies?
Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may provide relief from allergy symptoms. They can be found in:
- Oily Fish: Salmon, sardines
- Seeds: Chia seeds, flax seeds
How does gut health relate to seasonal allergies?
A balanced intestinal microbiota is key to the body’s response to seasonal allergens.Manzano suggests:
- Increasing consumption of antioxidant-rich foods.
- Including prebiotic foods like garlic,onion,and bananas.
- Consuming probiotics,such as yogurt and kefir.
What foods should be avoided to help with allergies?
Excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods, high in saturated sugars and fats, can worsen the body’s inflammatory response, potentially exacerbating allergy symptoms.
What is a Mediterranean diet, and how can it help allergies?
Following a Mediterranean diet can help regulate allergic reactions and improve overall health. It is rich in:
- Legumes
- Whole grains
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Lean proteins
Adequate hydration is also important when following this diet.
Are there any foods that might make allergy symptoms worse?
Yes, Manzano advises caution with:
- Birch pollen
- Fruits like apples; these might increase irritation or throat itching in some individuals.
Is personalized nutritional advice important for managing allergies?
Yes,personalized nutritional advice is essential to prevent unwanted reactions. Consulting a healthcare professional is vital before making meaningful dietary changes or taking supplements.
Should I take quercetin or nettle to help with allergies?
Substances like quercetin or nettle have been suggested as potential aids in reducing allergy symptoms.Manzano stresses,“it is indeed always advisable to consult a professional before taking them.”
Are there any risks with allergy supplements?
Yes, Manzano warns against self-prescribed supplementation. Excessive intake of certain nutrients can be counterproductive. consulting a healthcare professional before consuming any supplements is very important.
Summary of dietary recommendations for seasonal allergies
| category | Recommendations | Foods to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Increase Consumption of: | Antioxidant-rich foods & Omega-3 fatty acids | Citrus fruits, berries, red peppers, kale, oily fish (salmon, sardines), chia seeds, flax seeds. |
| promote Gut Health: | Prebiotic and Probiotic Foods | Garlic, onion, banana, yogurt, kefir |
| Follow: | Mediterranean Diet | Legumes, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins |
| Minimize/Avoid: | Ultra-processed foods; Be Cautious With: | Birch pollen, apples (may cause irritation in some) |