When a runny nose, itchy throat and irritated eyes show up unexpectedly, it can turn the day a little sour. These are just a few signs of an allergic reaction. While there are many types of allergies, such as food allergies, pet allergies and eczema, a change in weather can also trigger a reaction. As spring rolls around, that’s when seasonal allergies start to show. Let’s talk about why seasonal allergies happen and what we can do to keep them under control.

What are seasonal allergies?

When the weather warms up, we start to see flowers and plants blooming again. While it may be a pretty sight, it fills the air with allergens like pollen. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is an allergic reaction to airborne allergens like pollen, dust, weeds, and more. This reaction is triggered by the body’s immune system trying to clear out any foreign substance that is recognized as harmful. In the process of removing the invader, it triggers symptoms like:

• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes

Lifestyle tips to keep symptoms at bay.

While coming into contact with airborne allergens is almost inevitable, there are a few habits you can keep in mind. Try these tips to minimize the risk and enjoy the beautiful spring weather by managing the symptoms.

• Check your local pollen levels: Some weather networks offer daily pollen reports. If the levels are high, put on a mask before you head outside.
• Keep your windows and doors closed: Prevent allergens from entering your home by limiting the time you keep the door open.
• Take a shower after coming home: After going outside, hop in the shower and change into a fresh pair of clothes to reduce your exposure to any allergens that you may have come in contact with.

3 nutrients to help ease the symptoms.

Beyond lifestyle habits, adding a few key nutrients to your diet can help manage seasonal allergy symptoms.

Quercetin

Introducing antioxidants into your diet can help support your immune system and its response to invaders like seasonal allergens. Quercetin is known to reduce histamine levels and seasonal allergy symptoms. You can find this nutrient in red onions, berries and kale.

If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate quercetin into your daily routine, CanPrev’s Quercetin contains 500mg of quercetin sourced from the flower of the Japanese pagoda tree. For a liquid alternative, CanPrev’s Liposomal Quercetin offers 166mg of quercetin per serving with superior absorption and a citrus flavour.

Curcumin

Derived from turmeric, curcumin is a nutrient that’s been used in traditional medicine as an antioxidant. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and has been shown to reduce allergic reactions.

Try adding CanPrev’s Curcumin Unlocked into your routine. This formula uses 300mg of TurmiPure® material for high potency in all three curcuminoids for improved absorption.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant because of its high content in citrus fruits. It helps combat oxidative stress and protects against infections and chronic inflammation. Red bell peppers, kiwis and oranges are a few food sources that are rich in vitamin C. Elderberries are another great source of vitamin C with high antioxidant content. They have traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory remedy to help with allergies and to rid the body of toxins by promoting sweating.

Formulated with 250mg of vitamin C and 25mg of elderberry extract, CanPrev’s Elderberry C Chewable combines the benefits of elderberry and vitamin C to work as a powerful defence duo. Also available in liquid form.

Seasonal allergies can be bothersome and tend to make the warmer weather feel less enjoyable. But with a few tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can soak in the sun without the constant sneezing. Test out these solutions and see what works best for you!