Seasonal allergies are a common affliction that affects millions of people worldwide, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. They are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to certain substances in the environment, such as pollen, mold spores, or animal dander.
When these substances are inhaled or come into contact with the human skin, the immune system produces an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals in the body. These chemicals cause inflammation in the nasal passages, eyes, and respiratory system, leading to a range of symptoms including:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Watery eyes
- Congestion
- Postnasal drip
- Coughing
- Headache
- Fatigue
Seasonal allergies are most common during the spring and fall, when plants and trees release large amounts of pollen into the air. However, they can occur at any time of the year depending on the specific allergens that trigger the immune system response.
The severity of seasonal allergy symptoms can vary from person to person, ranging from mild discomfort to severe respiratory distress. For some people, seasonal allergies can also trigger asthma attacks or other respiratory conditions, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly.
There are a number of factors that can increase a person's risk of developing seasonal allergies, including:
- Family history of allergies
- Personal history of allergies or asthma
- Living in a high-pollution area
- Exposure to environmental pollutants
- Poor diet and nutrition
- Chronic stress or anxiety
While seasonal allergies cannot be cured, there are a number of treatments and preventative measures that can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Although there are various over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs available to treat seasonal allergies, many people prefer natural remedies. In this article, we will discuss three natural supplements that have been found to be effective in combating seasonal allergies: vitamin C, collagen, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. In fact, vitamin C may be as effective as some antihistamines in reducing allergy symptoms (1). The reason for this is that vitamin C helps to reduce histamine levels in the body, which are responsible for many of the symptoms associated with allergies (2)(3).
One of the most effective forms of vitamin C for allergy relief is lyposomal vitamin C. Lypo-Spheric® Vitamin C is one of the top-selling liposomal vitamin C supplements that delivers this critical nutrient into your bloodstream and cells. This form of vitamin C is encapsulated in liposomes, which are tiny bubbles made of phospholipids that protect the vitamin C as it passes through the digestive system. This means that more vitamin C can reach the bloodstream and be absorbed by the body. In fact, studies have found that lyposomal vitamin C is up to 1.77 times more bioavailable than non-liposomal vitamin C (4).
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. It is also important for maintaining the health of the joints, bones, and muscles.
In addition, collagen contains specific amino acids, such as glycine, glutamine, and proline, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties (5)(6)(7).
Inflammation is a common trigger of seasonal allergies, thus reducing inflammation can help to reduce allergy symptoms. The gut plays a critical role in the immune system, and an unhealthy gut can lead to chronic inflammation throughout the body.
Collagen has been found to improve gut health, which can also lead to reduced inflammation levels in the body. Supplementing with collagen may help to treat leaky gut, a common cause of inflammatory conditions, by sealing and soothing the lining of the gastrointestinal tract (8).
Organic collagen supplements are made from high-quality, grass-fed cows that are raised without the use of antibiotics or hormones. This ensures that the collagen is free from harmful contaminants and is of the highest quality.
Omega-3 Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of healthy fat that are found in fish, nuts, and seeds. They have been shown to have many health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and boosting brain function. Omega-3 supplements are a convenient way to increase your intake of these essential fatty acids and consumption has been significantly associated with reduced incidence of asthma (8).
Research has shown that omega-3 supplements can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
A study found that omega-3 supplements helped decrease the narrowing of airways in asthma and cases of seasonal allergies most likely from their anti-inflammatory properties (9).
Another study found that found that a higher content of omega 3 fatty acids in the bloodstream was associated with decreased risk of allergic sensitivity or hay fever (10).
When choosing an omega-3 supplement it’s important to look for supplements that have been tested for purity and potency. You can do this by checking for certifications and third-party testing to ensure that the product is safe and effective.
SISU Omega-3 supplements are made from high-quality fish oil that is sourced from wild, sustainably caught fish.
In addition to taking supplements, there are other steps that you can take to reduce allergy symptoms. One of the most important things is to avoid allergens as much as possible. This may mean staying indoors on high pollen days or avoiding certain foods that you are allergic to. You can also try using a saline nasal rinse or a neti pot to flush out your sinuses and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. And of course, getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated can also help to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation in the body.
In conclusion, seasonal allergies can be a real challenge for many people. However, by taking a few simple steps and incorporating supplements like vitamin C, omega-3 and collagen into your daily routine, you may be able to reduce many of the symptoms associated with allergies. Be sure to do your research and choose a brand that is committed to using natural and high-quality products. With a little bit of effort and the right supplements, you can enjoy the outdoors and all that life has to offer, even during allergy season.