Anyone who has dealt with an allergy would understand the discomfort involved. Different factors, including dust, food, insect stings, and pollen, may cause allergies. Sometimes, allergies may give rise to external symptoms like itching and rashes, whereas certain other allergies may entail symptoms like vomiting and dizziness. In any case, understanding the root cause can help one find a suitable remedy. Here are some foods that can help one manage allergy symptoms.

Ginger
Several allergies stem from irritation in the nasal passage, causing symptoms like swelling in the eyes and throat inflammation. Ginger comprises several antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which help reduce inflammation in the body and facilitate speedy recovery from allergic reactions. One may incorporate chopped or julienned ginger into stir-fries, gravies, soups, smoothies, etc., or add pounded ginger in tea for a soothing beverage.

Lemon
Foods rich in vitamin C can reduce the severity of allergic rhinitis, which refers to irritation in the upper respiratory tract. An allergic reaction to pollen typically causes this irritation. Every 100 grams of lemon juice contains 53 mg of vitamin C, making lemons a rich source of the essential vitamin. Hence, individuals prone to dust and pollen allergies should include lemon in their meals. Squeeze in some lime juice in soups, salads, and smoothies, or have it in the form of lemon tea or refreshing sugar-free lemonade. One may also have other citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, key lime, and mandarin oranges to boost vitamin C levels.

Turmeric
Turmeric has been recommended as a wonder ingredient for ages owing to its anti-inflammatory properties. This condiment contains curcumin, a bright-yellow compound that helps boost immunity and fight infections. Curcumin is fat soluble, i.e., it dissolves in oil or fat substances. Hence, it is advisable to include turmeric in meals high in healthy fat sources. Individuals with any form of allergy should have turmeric to strengthen their immune system to fight against the allergy-causing agents in the body. Turmeric can be added to foods like soups, smoothies, gravies, and stir-fries. Moreover, turmeric milk is a warm and soothing anti-inflammatory beverage.

Fatty fish
Studies have shown that oily or fatty fish varieties, which contain high omega-3 fatty acids, can enhance one’s resistance to allergies, specifically helping with respiratory conditions like asthma. There is evidence that increased levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in the body can reduce one’s susceptibility to hay fever and other allergies. Moreover, the American Heart Association and Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest that individuals should have eight ounces of fish per week. One can opt for low-mercury oily fish varieties like salmon, mackerel, and tuna.

Pineapples
In addition to containing high levels of vitamin C, pineapple is also packed with an enzyme called bromelain, which plays an essential role in boosting immunity and fighting inflammation. This enzyme can also help reduce allergy symptoms like swelling of the eyes. Individuals with pollen and seasonal allergies can particularly benefit from having pineapples regularly.

Onions
All onions, particularly the yellow and red varieties, are loaded with a bioflavonoid called quercetin, which is highly effective in fighting inflammation and reducing allergic reactions. It helps to retain as much of an onion’s outer layers as possible to reap the benefits of increased doses of quercetin. Onions may be added to a wide variety of everyday foods, from stir-fries and gravies to soups, salads, and snacks.

Almonds and cashews
Almonds and cashews are incredibly rich sources of magnesium. One ounce of almonds and cashews contains 80 mg (19% of the daily requirement) and 74 mg (18% of the daily requirement) of magnesium, respectively. Magnesium is an antihistamine and bronchodilator and, consequently, can help fight allergies effectively. It is also useful in soothing the bronchial tubes and reducing inflammation. Moreover, almonds are also high in vitamin E, which is shown to lower inflammation caused by allergies.

Yogurt
Yogurt is commonly recommended for stomach issues due to its high probiotic concentrations. In addition, it can reduce inflammation and allergic reactions in the body, facilitating a cooling effect. A study published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy demonstrates that individuals prone to allergies with Lactobacillus casei, a form of probiotic present in yogurt, had fewer allergy-fighting antibodies. Thus, this probiotic helps regulate stomach bacteria, preventing overreaction to allergic agents.

Tomatoes
Besides having high levels of vitamin C, tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that helps reduce systemic inflammation. It is also an excellent source of beta-carotene and vitamin E, which can strengthen immunity and regulate allergic reactions.

Chicken soup
Chicken soup’s warm broth is ideal for opening the nasal passageways and can be highly soothing to individuals experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms due to an allergy. Moreover, chicken soup contains essential nutrients, including vitamins like A, B12, and C; fatty acids; antioxidants; and electrolytes, all required to boost the immune system and fight allergies.

Green tea
Green tea contains several anti-allergenic agents, including methylated catechins and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which can help prevent and manage allergic reactions. One may also have other herbal teas, such as butterbur tea, chamomile tea, and Benifuuki Japanese green tea, to ward off and heal from allergies.

Besides incorporating the foods mentioned above into one’s meal plan, individuals prone to external allergies should apply natural healing agents, like aloe vera gel, oatmeal paste, and neem, on the affected areas. Moreover, for any type of allergy, understanding the underlying cause is essential to prevent it from worsening or relapsing. For example, individuals may eliminate certain foods or food groups, such as gluten, lactose, soy, peanuts, and eggs, to determine whether one is grappling with a food allergy. Most importantly, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional if the allergy symptoms persist.