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Eating more apples and onions could help you stave off hay fever this spring, say experts.
Sunny weather in the UK last weekend left many battling symptoms of the pollen allergy months earlier than usual.
The condition – also known as allergic rhinitis – is caused when an influx of pollen and dust mites are released into the air as part of their reproductive cycle.
Nearly half of all Britons have hay fever, which tends to worsen during spring, when airborne grass pollens are at their peak.
Allergic reactions can include itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing and a cough, and are generally treated with antihistamines – medications that relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine chemicals in the body that cause the reaction.
Decongestants and nasal corticosteroids are also available over-the-counter.
However, a 2022 study found that eating foods high in quercetin – an antioxidant naturally occurring in certain fruits and vegetables – can help reduce allergy symptoms by inhibiting the release of histamine.
‘Foods rich in quercetin, such as apples, onions, and broccoli, have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties,’ says Rhysa Phommachanh, health specialist at Landys Chemist.
Sunny weather in the UK last weekend left many battling symptoms of the pollen allergy months earlier than usual. Pictured: File photo
The condition – also known as allergic rhinitis – is caused when an influx of pollen and dust mites are released into the air as part of their reproductive cycle. Pictured: File photo
Nearly half of all Britons have hay fever, which tends to worsen during spring, when airborne grass pollens are at their peak. Pictured: File photo
Quercetin can be bought in supplement form and is also found in grapefruit and berries.
Hay fever sufferers can also supplement their diets with omega-3 fatty acids – found in fatty fish like salmon – to help reduce their symptoms, added Ms Phommachanh.
‘There is no ‘cure’ for hay fever, but there are a range of treatments available that can lessen the severity of symptoms,’ she said.
Saline rinses to clear the nose and a thin layer of petroleum jelly or beeswax on the nostrils to trap pollen particles before they enter the airways can help alleviate symptoms.
Washing clothes after outdoor activities and keeping windows closed during high pollen days are also effective ways to reduce hay fever itchiness.