Allergy season is well under way in most parts of the country. Pollens from trees, grasses, or weeds usually cause these seasonal allergies. If symptoms develop in the spring it is usually due to tree pollens; if they develop in the summer, then grass and weed pollens are usually the cause. Ragweed pollen accounts for about seventy-five percent of hay fever in the United States.
Symptoms occur when the immune system mistakes an ordinarily harmless substance (the allergen, or antigen, such as pollen) for a dangerous invader, and makes antibodies (a specific protein that helps fight disease) against it. Next time the allergen invades, the antigen-antibody reaction causes the body to "alert its defenses." Mast cells respond by releasing certain chemical substances, including histamine. Histamine (and other chemicals) increases the permeability to blood vessels, allowing fluid to escape into the nasal passages, causing congestion, sneezing, itching, and a runny nose all within a few minutes. Under certain disease fighting conditions, this increase of fluids into surrounding tissues has advantageous results of diluting toxins, limiting the spread of bacteria, providing protective antibodies, and healing wounds. With hay fever, however, the immune system becomes hypersensitive.
THERAPEUTIC CONSIDERATIONS
AVOIDANCE: Airborne allergens are difficult to avoid entirely, but measures can be taken to reduce exposure. It is best to avoid the outdoors between 5-10 AM and also dry, hot, windy days. Pollen can adhere to clothing, skin, hair, and pets. It is best to shower and change clothes after being outdoors. Wear a mask if working outside.
CROSS-REACTIVE FOODS TO AVOID: Honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon, banana, and chamomile can cross-react with ragweed. Avoidance of these foods is recommended to reduce any compounding symptoms. A cross-reaction to ragweed pollen may cause an oral allergy syndrome: itching or swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or roof of the mouth.
BIOFLAVONOIDS:
GRAPE SEEDS (PROVLAVANOL 90) are a rich source of bioflavonoids known as proanthocyanidins. These powerful antioxidants are effective in the treatment of many problems, largely those due to aging and the effects of free radical action. The specific type of proanthocyanidins found in grape seeds are called “leucoanthocyanidins.’’ Leucoanthocyanidins from grape seed prevent the release and synthesis of compounds that promote inflammation and allergies such as histamine, serine protease, prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
QUERCETIN (ESSENTIALS) is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, directly inhibiting a number of the processes that result in inflammation and associated allergic reactions. Unlike antihistamine drugs that block the binding of histamine to cellular receptors, quercetin actually inhibits the release of histamine and other inflammatory compounds in the first place. Quercetin is a type of bioflavonoid that is widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom. It is found, for example, in yellow onion, broccoli, asparagus, kale, bell peppers, apple and tea. Quercetin is also found in a number of medicinal plants including bearberry, witch hazel, passionflower, eucalyptus and elder.
The release of histamine and other products of inflammation from both mast cells and basophils, is a basic pathological response in acute allergic situations. Researchers have concluded that quercetin is a potent inhibitor of mast cell and basophil degranulation because it blocks the cellular influx of calcium in these cells. This effectively stops the basic signal necessary for the occurrence of degranulation and associated histamine release. Mast cells are found throughout the body and occur in the highest concentrations in the GI and respiratory tracts and the skin. Since quercetin is not well absorbed, it is believed to work primarily at the GI tract level, making it the ideal solution for individuals with mild food intolerance. In contrast to quercetin, the proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract are well absorbed, entering the blood stream rapidly. Here, they inhibit the release and synthesis of inflammatory chemicals such as histamines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS: Dietary enrichment with "fish oil" supplements (BIOMEGA-3) that provide EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) greatly reduces inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish can significantly improve airway responsiveness to allergens and respiratory function by shifting, over time, the make- up of cell membranes to the less inflammatory fatty acids.
VITAMINS and MINERALS:
VITAMIN C (POLY C) is especially important to the health of the lungs. Vitamin C intake in the general population appears to inversely correlate with the occurrence of asthma. When vitamin C intake is low, the rate of asthma is high. Smoking depletes respiratory vitamin C and E levels. If taken over time, Vitamin C will also prevent the release of histamine and increase the detoxification of histamine. It's has natural antihistamine properties.
CAROTENES (ESSENTIALS) increase the integrity of the lining of the respiratory tract and also help decrease the production of inflammatory substances. A carotene-rich diet or a mixed carotenoid supplement may be beneficial. Carotene-rich fruits and vegetables also reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Including brightly colored (red and yellow) fruits and vegetables: carrots, apricots, mangoes, yams, and squash, as well as green leafy vegetables, legumes, grains, and seeds. Beta-carotene is the active form of vitamin A.
VITAMIN E (E-PRIME) protects the body from free radicals (substances that damage cellular membranes) and inhibits the production of inflammatory substances.
VITAMIN B-6 AND B-12 (ESSENTIALS) have been recommended for patients with asthma to decrease frequency and severity of wheezing and asthmatic attacks and may prove to be effective in reducing allergic symptoms.
SELENIUM (ESSENTIALS) plays a very important role in reducing and breaking down the allergic inflammatory substances produced by the body during an allergic reaction.
GINKGO BILOBA (GINKO PS) contains several unique molecules that antagonize key mediators, which lead to inflammation and allergic reactions. Ginkgo improves respiratory function and reduces bronchial reactivity, as well as providing good antioxidant support.
This information has not been reviewed by the FDA and is not meant to cure, diagnose, or treat any disease.
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