since climate change has spring arriving earlier every year, it is a good time to remind people in the northern hemisphere: if you have any sort of irritation anywhere in your entire body, or have a medical condition such as eczema that might make you extra sensitive to irritating particles in the air,
wash your face and hands after going outside! if you already know you have seasonal allergies, be sure to shower and change your clothes when you've finished all your business outside of your home for the day.
protect your guts! constipation, upset stomach and reflux are common comorbid symptoms of seasonal allergies! eat 1. fermented foods full of helpful bacteria: yogurt, kimchi, tempeh, sauerkraut, natto, kombucha, probiotic supplements (NOT prebiotic! that's just fiber).
2. bland, easily digestible comfort foods (porridge, broth, potage, egg drop soup, jello). If allergies make your intestines inflamed and irritated, especially if fermented food or dairy is also difficult for you to digest, you're going to want to be extra nice to your body and eat whatever you think of as 'food for sick people.' Since you may also have an upset stomach, nasal congestion and swelling or sensitivity in your tongue and mouth, focus on food whose textures and temperatures appeal to you. If you find yourself picking at your food or repulsed by something you can usually eat, try a hot clear liquid (broth, tea, microwaved juice or sports drink) or a cold treat (popsicle, frozen fruit, ice cubes) as an appetizer.
3. Hydration 2: non-water ingredients. If you're drinking lots of water but not peeing much or retaining water(swelling/edema), it could be because you're electrolyte deficient. Potassium and sodium are key minerals for hydration. You can get them from sports drinks, pedialyte and other 'liquid IV' electrolyte solutions, or mix salt into a glass of water and serve with fruit (lychees and citrus fruits are good sources of both potassium and immune-boosting vitamin C).
4. If you don't eat a lot of animal proteins, consider taking a vitamin supplement that includes Vitamin A, B6 (also called folate), D, and zinc. These come in pill form but depending on where you live, may also be included in many foods labeled 'enriched' or 'fortified.' I've seen vitamin-loaded protein shakes, flour, rice and products marketed as 'for kids' including fruit juice, breakfast cereal and nondairy milk in US grocery stores.
