Seasonal allergies can be caused by many factors. Typically, there is an imbalance in the immune system, and a malfunction in the antigen-deactivating capacity of the liver. There are often phsychological factors as well, and emotions may be related to feelings of isolation, separation, or arrogance. Dietary goals which target the immune system and removing liver stagnation are as follows:

Increase consumption of omega-3 – lowers levels of inflammatory mediators such as leukotrienes  – wild, deep sea fatty fish

Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables high in flavonoids (see below) and chlorophyll rich food such as micro-algae – immune-enhancing and anti-inflammatory

Decrease consumption of meat and increase consumption of vegetable protein – soy (organic/fermented, legumes, rice/pea protein powder).

Foods highest in anti-oxidants  ORAC = Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity

Fruits

Per   100gm

Veggies

Per   100gm

Spices   (Total antioxidant activity)

Mmol/100   gm

Blueberries

Blackberries

Cranberries

Strawberries

Raspberries

Apples

Pear

 

2400

2036

1750

1540

1220

218

134

Kale

Spinach   (raw)

Spinach   (Steamed)

Broccoli

Beets

Red   Peppers

Peas   (frozen)

Potatoes

Carrots

1770

1260

930

 

890

841

713

364

313

207

Oregano

Cinnamon

Sage

Peppermint

Thyme

Lemon   balm

marjoram

137.5

98.4

91.5

78.5

74.6

74.6

55.8

Foods Highest in Flavonoids * = foods highest in Quercetin, the best anti-histimine for allergies

Legumes and nuts: black, kidney, pinto, fava, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, cashews, *soybean

Vegetables: green and red veggies, *nightshade family: peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, *onions – red and green, celery, artichokes, *snap beans, *okra, *broccoli

Spices: *Dill, parsley, thyme, *capers, dark chocolate

Beverages: juicing, *grapes and grape juice, tea – black, red, green