Flowers are blooming, the bees are buzzing, and we are starting to enjoy the warmer weather of spring. As we start to enjoy more outdoor activities, we may also begin to suffer from more allergy symptoms. According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year. Not only is your car covered in pollen, but your eyes are itching, your nose is congested, and you can’t stop sneezing. Allergy sufferers may not only experience physical symptoms, but also mental and functional declines that affect their everyday lives.

Allergy symptoms are caused by an overreaction of the immune system in response to an allergen. The allergen is usually just a harmless substance like pollen. One of the ways we can reduce the allergy burden is by avoiding contact with known allergens. Try to stay indoors when the allergens you are sensitive to are in peak season and keep your home clean. Pets may make this more difficult since they will track these things in as well. But if you know you have been exposed to an allergen you may want to remove and rinse off or wash any articles of clothing that came into contact with it.

Utilizing medication, whether over-the-counter or prescription, is a common strategy to reduce allergy symptoms. There are several antihistamines and nasal sprays used to reduce allergy symptoms, but if you want to try a natural alternative, AllerDHQ may be a good option for you. This product combines bioflavonoids, micronutrients and herbs that may help combat allergies. Dihydroquercetin (DHQ) is one of the bioflavonoids that may help protect tissues from harmful oxidation and inflammation caused by the allergen. A benefit to DHQ is that it is better absorbed than quercetin alone, which may be found in other products. Rutin is another bioflavonoid in this supplement that may help to reduce swelling and mucus buildup.

Vitamins and minerals are another great resource to help reduce allergies. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may help protect the immune system and deactivate histamine, which is involved in the immune response. Since, Vitamin C can be hard on the stomach, we offer Buffered Vitamin C and Ester Vitamin C Plus supplements that are much easier on sensitive stomachs. The requirements for Vitamin C also increase when the body is under stress, like when you are suffering from allergies. This addition to your regimen can be very beneficial. Zinc is a mineral that may also reduce oxidative stress on the immune system. It may also shorten the recovery time for acute health problems like allergies. The only problem is, when combined with other minerals, zinc is not well absorbed. Zinc Glycinate is unique, because it is well absorbed, even when combined with other minerals.

So, don’t suffer through spring. Take a few more precautions and add some supplements to your daily routine and you should be ready for your next outdoor adventure. If you would like to learn more about the supplements discussed above, please contact Annie’s Apothecary.