What Are the Best Supplements for Allergies?

If you suffer from allergies, supplements may be a better alternative to antihistamine medications. They can help alleviate symptoms without the potential risks of side effects.

Vitamin C and bromelain have been scientifically proven to offer numerous advantages for allergy sufferers, including helping reduce clotting and improving sinus function.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most beneficial immune-boosting nutrients you can take, particularly helpful in fighting allergies. It acts as an antioxidant which prevents cell damage and activates white blood cells which fight infections.

Furthermore, this supplement contains anti-histamine properties which reduce histamine levels in the body. This is essential for allergy sufferers since histamine can cause inflammation and lead to congestion, itching, sneezing and runny noses.

Recent research revealed that IV infusion of a high dose of vitamin C could reduce both respiratory and skin-related symptoms for those suffering from allergic conditions, including acute or chronic hay fever as well as other seasonal allergies.

Seasonal allergies, known as allergic rhinitis, can be caused by various things such as pollen, mold, dust and mites. When this condition develops it triggers both an IgE-mediated response and mast cell activation which then lead to symptoms like itching, watery eyes and nasal congestion.

The good news is that vitamin C, which can be found in foods like bell peppers, cantaloupe, citrus fruits and strawberries, can be effective at treating this type of allergy. A 2000 study even discovered two grams of vitamin C daily can act as a natural antihistamine.

Vitamin C can also be obtained daily by taking a multivitamin that contains the active form of the vitamin, which is identical to what an orange contains. Be sure to avoid synthetic supplements that contain orange flavoring or extracts since these could lead to an allergic reaction.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays several vital roles, including in the immune system. It acts as a natural antihistamine and can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that this powerful antioxidant reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.

Vitamin D deficiency is common among those suffering from hay fever, and may even be linked to an increased risk of asthma. In 2012, researchers from Clalit Health Services in Israel conducted a study that revealed around 30% of hay fever sufferers had low levels of vitamin D.

The study didn’t demonstrate any benefit for lung function or day-to-day symptoms, but vitamin D did reduce the risk of severe asthma attacks. A separate 2017 study published by researchers from University of Belgrade in Serbia discovered that children who had hypovitaminosis D and were given high dose vitamin D3 supplementation by their pediatrician for 6-9 weeks experienced a lower risk of severe asthma attacks than those without such supplementation.

Additionally, vitamin D may enhance the effectiveness of steroids on asthma. A clinical trial conducted at the University of California San Diego found that oral administration of vitamin D improved steroid treatment and significantly reduced resistance through induction of IL-10-secreting Tregs (regulatory T cells).

Vitamin B3 can be especially helpful for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It also helps guard against colds, flu, and other viral infections. Furthermore, children with food allergies should take this vitamin regularly since it makes treatment more successful.

Butterbur

Butterbur is an herbal supplement designed to reduce symptoms associated with allergies. It contains compounds which reduce inflammation and boost immune function.

Additionally, grape seed extract contains antioxidants which may help shield your heart and brain from oxidative damage. These powerful compounds help keep the body healthy, as well as protecting against chronic illnesses like heart disease, dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Another potential advantage is that butterbur may reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. Studies have demonstrated that taking butterbur in combination with other medicines can provide temporary relief from symptoms related to asthma, while improving lung function.

According to some reports, butterbur can also be used for treating stomach upsets and urinary tract infections; however, further research is necessary to confirm this claim.

If you are thinking about taking butterbur as a supplement, consult with your doctor first. They can determine if it’s safe for you and whether other medications should be taken along with it.

Some butterbur products contain chemicals known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). If not taken properly, these toxic compounds can lead to liver damage and cancer. That’s why it is so important to purchase supplements that are free from PAs.

Butterbur has also been scientifically proven to have antihistamine properties and be a safe and effective treatment for migraines. Furthermore, studies have discovered that butterbur can relieve hay fever symptoms as well as boost your immunity levels.

Butterbur is a flower in the sunflower family that thrives throughout Europe and Asia. Two species of Petasites–Petarsites hydridus and Petasites frigidus–are commonly used as butterbur products.

This herb is a well-known remedy for allergies, including hay fever. It may also benefit other conditions like asthma and chronic fatigue. When taken as part of a holistic wellness plan that includes other natural remedies and nutritional elements, the herb has been known to show results.

NAC

NAC is an anti-inflammatory supplement that also helps relieve nasal congestion. It serves as a precursor for glutathione, one of the body’s most potent antioxidants.

NAC breaks down disulfide bonds in mucus, making it less viscous and easier to remove from the body. It has become widely used as an expectorant and mucolytic for treating various respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD.

It can also help prevent a cold from leading to a respiratory infection and lessen the amount of flu symptoms experienced when someone contracts the virus. The medication can be taken orally, in capsule or tablet form, or via injection depending on which condition needs treating.

NAC also has the potential to reduce oxidative stress in the body and enhance insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for those suffering from diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or other metabolic disorders.

NAC may also be beneficial to people with psychiatric conditions like depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety. Studies suggest it helps reduce impulsivity and compulsive behaviors which may contribute to these issues.

Finally, research has demonstrated that taking nitric oxide supplements can increase nitric oxide production in the body and thus improve blood flow and reduce heart disease risk factors. Therefore, this supplement is considered safe for most adults to take.

NAC can be purchased over the counter at most health food stores in capsule, tablet or injection form. You may also be able to obtain it with a doctor’s prescription.

Astragalus

Astragalus has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to boost immunity and fight disease. Additionally, it acts as an adaptogen, protecting your body against stress or other physical or mental hardships.

Astragalus can be taken as a supplement in capsule, tablet, or liquid form and combined with other herbs like ginseng for maximum benefits. It’s also popular as a tincture.

According to a review of studies by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, astragalus is generally safe for most adults when taken at recommended doses. However, you should consult your doctor prior to taking it if you have any allergies or are taking medications that suppress the immune system.

Research in progress suggests that astragalus may help relieve allergy-rhinitis symptoms. Additionally, preliminary data suggests it may reduce inflammation and have anticancer properties; however, further tests are needed to confirm these claims.

According to some preliminary studies, sugar can help lower blood sugar and protect the liver. Furthermore, it may prevent and treat heart disease.

Astragalus has been said to provide numerous health benefits, including stimulating the spleen, liver, lungs and circulatory systems while also lowering blood pressure. Furthermore, astragalus may reduce fatigue and strengthen your immune system.

Astragalus contains high levels of antioxidants that protect cells against damage. This could potentially give your body an edge in combatting diseases like cancer, autoimmune disorder and even the common cold.

Some research suggests that astragalus may protect skin cells from sun damage. It could also reduce aging in skin cells due to increased telomerase activity, which increases cell life.