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
