'Tis the Season

According to several nutritional sources, millions of Americans suffer from reactions to airborne allergens. For some, these reactions are a discomforting nuisance; for others they can be debilitating.

You can decrease the effect allergens have on you with nutrients that support normal digestive, respiratory and immune function.Those who suffer with allergies have immune systems that overreact when exposed to allergens. Ingesting airborne substances, such as ragweed and pollen, irritate the sinuses and lead to an allergic response.

Our system produces an antibody called IgE (immunoglobulin E) to fight allergens. IgE attaches itself to white blood cells called mast cells that are concentrated in our respiratory and digestive tracts where allergens tend to enter the body. When stimulated, these mast cells release many chemicals, primarily histamine, which cause most allergy symptoms.

Allergic reactions can also release other compounds in the body to produce an inflammatory response.Allergens thrive everywhere - indoors and outdoors. The most common allergens are pollen, molds, animals and animal dander, dust, dust mites, food and some food additives, industrial pollution and smoke.

Join me next time as I share more information on how to combat sinus and allergies.

Credits:

Happy woman: Lucas Janin/flickr