Natural Functional Medicine Strategies for Allergies

Allergies can be a source of constant misery, causing sleep loss and a significant lack of productivity in both industry and education. While pharmaceuticals may provide relief, they can also come with side effects. Fortunately, there are several lifestyle, diet, and non-pharmacological approaches that can provide superior relief with fewer side effects. In this article, we will explore natural functional medicine strategies for allergies.

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“I do my best to present the best and most accurate information here, but here’s what I am – a pharmacist and holistic sleep coach. I’m not a doctor or psychologist so use your best judgement when implementing my information.”

Perennial Allergies and Their Impact

Perennial allergies can wreak havoc on the sinuses, lungs, and skin. Common perennial allergens in your house include mold spores, dust and dust mites, animal dander (especially cats), specific chemicals like cleaning agents and certain powders. Some of these allergens are small enough to penetrate the bronchial tree and cause an asthmatic reaction. Symptoms over 2 hours per day, more than 9 months out of the year indicate a perennial allergy.

Seasonal Allergies and Their Impact

Seasonal allergies, particularly those caused by trees and weeds, can be worse because they have no flowers. Additionally, certain times of the year can bring on worse allergy symptoms, such as during peak pollen season.

Fungal Spores and Their Impact

Fungal spores are common, except for when there is snow cover. They can be found in a variety of places, including damp areas in the home, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. They can also be found in soil, compost, and decaying vegetation.

Texas Allergies

In Texas, the pollen season can vary depending on the region and the climate. Here are some of the most common pollen allergies in Texas and when they tend to peak:

1. Oak Pollen: In Texas, oak trees are a major source of pollen and can produce high levels of pollen from February to April, with the peak in March.
2. Pecan Pollen: Pecan trees also produce high levels of pollen in Texas, typically from March to May.
3. Grass Pollen: Grass pollen can be a significant allergen in Texas, particularly in the late spring and summer months (May to July).
4. Ragweed Pollen: Ragweed is a common allergen in Texas, particularly in the fall months (August to November), when it releases high levels of pollen.
5. Mountain Cedar Pollen: Mountain cedar pollen can be a significant allergen in Central Texas, particularly from December to February.

It’s worth noting that Texas is a large state with diverse geography and climate, so pollen levels and allergy seasons can vary significantly depending on the location. It’s important to pay attention to local pollen counts and consult with a healthcare provider if you experience allergy symptoms.

Who is Susceptible to Allergic Responses?

Some individuals are more susceptible to allergic responses due to genetics and environmental factors. IgE antibodies are created by high amounts of B cells, and factors such as maternal diet, immune challenges during fetal development, early childhood exposure to allergens, diet, gut microflora, and immunization can all influence the immune system. Urban living, exposure to diesel exhaust, the use of antibiotics, having fewer siblings, and vaccination programs are also factors to consider.

Avoiding Allergens Naturally with out medication

• Keep your home clean and free of dust by vacuuming and dusting frequently.
• Use allergen-proof covers on pillows, mattresses, and box springs to reduce exposure to dust mites.
• Wash bedding and linens in hot water regularly to kill dust mites.
• Use natural cleaning products instead of harsh chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom and off of furniture to reduce exposure to animal dander.
• Take a shower and wash your hair before bed to remove any allergens that may have collected on your skin and hair during the day.
• Wear a mask when cleaning or doing yard work to reduce exposure to allergens.
• Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen or mold seasons, and use an air conditioner with a HEPA filter to help clean the air inside your home.
• Avoid hanging laundry outside to dry during high pollen or mold seasons.
• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, which can irritate the lungs and trigger allergic reactions.
• Consider using a saline nasal rinse or a neti pot to help flush out allergens from your nasal passages.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. We will talk more below.
• Reduce stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, as stress can worsen allergy symptoms.

Diet and Supplemental Therapies To Be More Allergy Resistant

Probiotics have been shown to be beneficial in preventing atopic dermatitis, particularly strains in the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus families. These strains can help balance the immune response to allergens and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

Helping the Gut lining and Microbiome

Probiotics have been shown to be beneficial in preventing atopic dermatitis, particularly strains in the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus families. These strains can help balance the immune response to allergens and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.

Natural Ingredients with Allergy Blocking Abilities

Quercetin is a flavonoid that works as an anti-inflammatory. It inhibits the production of several enzymes and factors that cause inflammation, such as Phospholipase A, lipoxygenase, platelet aggregation, and mast cell degranulation. Quercetin can help reduce the release of histamines and other preformed allergy-causing cytokines, thereby reducing the severity of allergic reactions.

Bromelain

Bromelain is another supplement that inhibits the inflammatory precursor arachidonic acid, which ultimately leads to the production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins. These end products cause itching, vasodilation in the sinuses, increased vascular permeability, eye redness, and excessive mucus production. Bromelain also enhances the absorption of Quercetin when taken together.

Nettle Leaf

Nettle leaf and butterbur are two natural supplements that have been shown to minimize allergies. Nettle leaf contains several anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, and butterbur has been shown to reduce nasal congestion and improve airflow in people with allergic rhinitis.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC): An amino acid that supports immune function and helps break down mucus in the respiratory tract, NAC can help improve respiratory symptoms associated with allergies.

Holistic Pharmacist and Sleep Coach – Dr. Zeke Medina

Working with a clinician with years of experience in treating allergies with pharmaceuticals and natural remedies can be beneficial. A clinician can help identify the root cause of your allergies, develop a customized treatment plan, and monitor your progress. If you’re interested in creating a customized sleep plan to help manage your allergies, you can schedule a call with me to discuss further.

To Healthy Sleep,

Dr. Zeke Medina