ALLERGIES | Health Status | Essential4Health
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Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

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ALLERGIES

Description

Allergies manifest as an immune system response to foreign substances perceived as non-harmful invaders. During an allergic reaction, white blood cells are activated, mobilizing to combat substances mistakenly recognized as threats. Allergies can develop to various elements, with common allergens encompassing pollen, dust (particularly dust mites), metals, cosmetics, lanolin, animal agents, insect venom, and drugs. Mold and food allergies are also prevalent concerns. Typical allergic reactions include symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, itching, hives, skin rashes, and breathing difficulties. The range of potential allergens and associated symptoms underscores the diverse and sometimes complex nature of allergic responses in individuals. Management of allergies often involves lifestyle and dietary modifications, as identifying and avoiding specific triggers plays a crucial role in alleviating symptoms and improving overall well-being.

Body System

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[42] Branson S. 101 Amazing Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar: Soothe an Upset Stomach, Get More Energy, Wash Out Cat Urine and 98 More!. Workman Publishing; 2017 Jul 11.
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[44] Leherbauer I, Stappen I. Selected essential oils and their mechanisms for therapeutic use against public health disorders. An overview. Zeitschrift für Naturforschung C. 2020;75(7-8): 205-223.
[45] Kobayashi Y, Sato H, Yorita M, Nakayama H, Miyazato H, Sugimoto K, Jippo T. Inhibitory effects of geranium essential oil and its major component, citronellol, on degranulation and cytokine production by mast cells. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. 2016 Jun 2;80(6):1172-8.
[46] Korinek M, Handoussa H, Tsai YH, Chen YY, Chen MH, Chiou ZW, Fang Y, Chang FR, Yen CH, Hsieh CF, Chen BH. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial volatile oils: Fennel and cumin inhibit neutrophilic inflammation via regulating calcium and MAPKs. Frontiers in pharmacology. 2021 Oct 11;12:674095.
[47] He M, Qin W, Qin Z, Zhao C. Acupuncture for allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Med Res. 2022;27(1):58. Published 2022 Apr 25.
[48] Du SH, Guo W, Yang C, et al. Filiform needle acupuncture for allergic rhinitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Integr Med. 2022;20(6):497-513.
[49] Jung M, Lee JY, Ryu G, et al. Beneficial effect of nasal saline irrigation in children with allergic rhinitis and asthma: A randomized clinical trial. Asian Pac J Allergy Immunol. 2020;38(4):251-257.
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[54] Vollbracht C, Raithel M, Krick B, Kraft K, Hagel AF. Intravenous vitamin C in the treatment of allergies: an interim subgroup analysis of a long-term observational study. J Int Med Res. 2018;46(9):3640-3655.
[55] Ghalibaf MH, Kianian F, Beigoli S, Behrouz S, Marefati N, Boskabady M, Boskabady MH. The effects of vitamin C on respiratory, allergic and immunological diseases: an experimental and clinical-based review. Inflammopharmacology. 2023 Apr;31(2):653-72.
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Dietary & Other Supplements

1. Vitamin C: Vitamin C works like a natural antihistamine, helping to reduce allergy symptoms by lowering histamine levels. It also acts as an antioxidant, which means it can ease inflammation and swelling during allergic reactions.

2. DAO: DAO is an important enzyme in the intestines that helps break down histamine and other substances. This process is crucial for managing allergies and maintaining digestive health.

3. Vitamin D3/K2: Low vitamin D levels may increase the risk of allergies in kids and teens and contribute to food allergies in infants. Getting enough vitamin D3/K2 is important for a strong immune system.

4. Probiotics: Probiotics help balance the good bacteria in your gut, leading to a stronger immune response against common allergens. They're beneficial for overall gut health and may help with allergies.

5. Vitamin B9[Folate]: Low levels of Vitamin B9, also known as folate, might increase the risk of allergies and asthma. Folate helps regulate the immune response to allergens, possibly reducing allergy and asthma symptoms.

6. Betaine HCI: Betaine HCI can reduce food allergy reactions by aiding in the breakdown of proteins before they are absorbed. This helps improve digestion and may lessen allergic responses.

7. Digestive Enzymes: Digestive enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down foods, preventing incomplete digestion that could turn food proteins into allergens. They support overall digestive health.

Plant Extracts

1. Quercetin: Quercetin inhibits mast cell activation, reducing the release of histamine and other inflammatory substances. It's a natural way to manage allergic reactions.

2. Bromelain: Bromelain is effective in treating respiratory distress and inflammation associated with allergies. It also improves the absorption of quercetin, making it even more beneficial.

3. Black Radish Extract: Black Radish Extract boosts the immune system, supporting the body's natural defenses against various threats. It's a natural way to enhance overall immune function.

4. Stinging Nettle Root Extract: Stinging Nettle Root Extract may help reduce hay fever symptoms by acting as an anti-inflammatory. It's a natural option for managing seasonal allergies.

5. Geranium Essential Oil: It has been found effective in blocking the inflammatory response of the immune system. Its active component, citronellol, exerts anti-allergic effects.

6. Cumin Essential Oil: Incorporating cumin essential oil is believed to assist in minimizing the production of inflammatory cytokines, signaling molecules involved in immune responses, during allergic reactions, potentially providing relief for individuals with allergies.

7. Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Eucalyptus essential oil exhibits promise in alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis through its potential anti-inflammatory effects and airway-opening properties, contributing to an improved overall quality of life for individuals affected by allergies.

Natural Compounds

1. Honey: Honey, renowned for its bioactive phytochemicals, is believed to offer relief from allergy symptoms by exerting anti-allergenic properties, potentially mitigating the impact of allergens and providing comfort for individuals with allergies.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Gallic acid, a component of ACV, has been recognized for its capacity to mitigate the body's inflammatory response and hinder histamine release, offering a potential remedy for allergy-related discomfort.

Complementary & Alternative Treatments

1. Oil Pulling: Rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, oil pulling involves swishing oil in the mouth for around 15-20 minutes. Anecdotal evidence suggests its potential effectiveness in treating allergies.

2. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is believed to improve allergic rhinitis symptoms by promoting better energy flow, reducing inflammation, and modulating the immune response, thereby alleviating nasal congestion and enhancing overall well-being for individuals dealing with allergic rhinitis.

3. Nasal Irrigation: Employing a neti pot or saline solution for nasal irrigation can ease congestion and remove allergens from nasal passages. Ensuring the use of sterile water is crucial to preventing infections.

4. Aromatherapy: Inhaling aromatherapy oils is thought to alleviate allergic rhinitis symptoms by reducing inflammation, promoting airway opening, managing stress, improving sleep quality, and soothing nasal irritation, contributing to overall well-being.

5. Vitamin C IV: Intravenous vitamin C treatment demonstrates potential for reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially improving allergic rhinitis symptoms.

6. Far-infrared Therapy: Utilizing far-infrared therapy through heating pads, blankets, or clothing may show promise in alleviating allergic rhinitis symptoms, as demonstrated in one study. However, more robust evidence is needed to establish its efficacy conclusively.

Symptoms & Signs

Causes

Immune Dysfunction, Genes, Asthma

Books That You May Want To Read

How Nutrients Function

Enzymes and Coenzymes: Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, while coenzymes assist in these processes by binding temporarily to enzymes. Together, they regulate digestion, energy production, immune responses, and various metabolic pathways.


Fruit Extracts: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, fruit extracts offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties. They also support digestive health and contribute to overall well-being.


Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.


Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components aid in tissue repair and maintenance, ensuring optimal bodily function. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.


Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.


Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.

Podcast Episodes To Listen To

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Lectures To Learn From

Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider

References

Additional Support Options

Things To Do

Depending on the type of allergy, the following techniques may be effective:


  • Focus on consuming whole foods. Eat foods that do not aggravate your food allergy. 

  • If you suspect a food sensitivity or allergy, try an elimination diet to confirm your idea.

  • If you suffer from pollen or other airborne particle allergies, dust your surroundings frequently, keep your windows shut, and use air purifiers and air filters. In very humid spaces, use a dehumidifier. Also, air conditioning can be very helpful during pollen season.

  • Use hypoallergenic bedsheets and invest in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Keep in mind that not all HEPA filters can clear out pollen and mold particles.

  • For mold allergies, have your house checked for possible mold. Use mold-proof paints and dehumidify the space. 

  • Stay indoors on windy days when pollen is traveling long distances.  

  • Fasting can be an effective tool to help manage food allergies.

  • Choose supplements that are hypoallergenic and won't trigger an allergic reaction.

  • Introduce more plants into your surroundings; they are helpful in removing indoor pollutants from the air. Some examples include the Areca Palm, Bamboo Palm, Rubber Plant, and Dracaena.

Things To Avoid

To reduce and possibly eliminate the symptoms of allergies, it is recommended to avoid:


  • In any allergy, avoid foods high in histamine such as alcohol, caffeinated tea, coffee, fermented foods [sourdough bread, tempeh, miso, soy sauce, natto, kefir, kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut, and pickled vegetables], tomatoes, eggplant, spinach, packaged meat, aged cheese, and citrus fruits.

  • Foods that cause your body distress and illness. The most common allergens are: eggs, bananas, dairy products, nuts, shellfish, wheat and other gluten-containing grains, strawberries, and citrus fruits.

  • Mucous-producing foods, such as dairy, bananas, sugar, and wheat.

  • Eating processed foods due to their artificial ingredients.

  • In cases of allergies, avoid sugar and processed foods, which are acidic and lower immune function. 

  • Outdoor activities during high pollen hours.

  • Carpeted spaces.

  • Contact with pets and other allergens.

  • Stress and smoking.

  • Harsh chemical cleaning products, which are irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

  • Clutter accumulation. It allows for dust to gather.

Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide

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