As allergy season approaches, preparing your body for the onslaught of allergens is key to minimizing your symptoms. You can start by strengthening your immune system with a healthy diet and natural immune-boosters and antihistamines like vitamin C, bromelain, and quercetin, along with getting a daily dose of probiotics. By doing these things, you can enjoy a healthier, less miserable life free of sneezing, sniffling, and itchiness.
Probiotic help for hay fever
Researchers from the University of Florida discovered that a specific trio of probiotics can help lessen the symptoms of hay fever. Hay fever, the culprit behind most seasonal allergies, feels like an ongoing and relentless cold – runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, and sneezing. It’s caused by airborne allergens released by plants and fungi when they wake up in the spring, as well as indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander.
UF researchers studied the effects of three probiotic strains on a group of 173 adults with seasonal allergies. Half of the adults took the probiotics, and the other half took a placebo. After eight weeks, the group that took the probiotics experienced fewer allergy-related nasal symptoms and were better able to function in their day-to-day life.
Previous studies have shown that probiotics can positively impact the immune system’s response to allergens. However, not all probiotics are equally effective. The study identified a specific combination of probiotics that work.
The right probiotics to relieve seasonal allergies
The University of Florida study participants took a combination of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria strains. More specifically, they took two probiotic capsules per day – one after their breakfast and one after their dinner. Each capsule contained:
- 2 billion CFU of Lactobacillus gasseri
- 15 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium bifidum
- 15 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium longum
This dosage equated to a total of 1.5 billion CFU per probiotic capsule. A similar combination of probiotics can be found in most health food stores under various brand names, like Kyo-Dophilus. This specific trio of probiotics can also be found in other popular probiotic brands, although you may notice a few other probiotic strains included.
Taking this trio of probiotics daily will allow you to feel much better this allergy season without the annoying side effects of antihistamines, such as sleepiness and brain fog, or the dangerous side effects like increased blood pressure. Instead, you will experience the positive side effects of probiotics, which include melting fat, fighting disease, and keeping your body young.
If you want to avoid traditional allergy treatments and their unwanted side effects, consider adding this combination of probiotics to your daily routine. By taking care of your body and giving it the tools it needs to fight allergens, you can conquer your hay fever symptoms and enjoy a healthier, happier life.
