More than one in every six Canadians suffers from seasonal allergies. Johnson and Johnson did a survey in Canada and found that more women than men admit to symptoms, while 55% of allergy sufferers claim their allergies cut into their productivity time.

Sneezing, wheezing, runny nose and itchy watery red eyes are some of the common symptoms people experience. There are some things you can try to cut down on the intensity of your allergies presence.

1. Take a look at your diet. Anything that causes even mild stomach upset or skin reaction is a clear sign your body is telling you something. New research has shown a strong relationship between seasonal allergies and food intolerances.
2. Consume spicy foods. Spicy foods thin our mucous secretions, which can help clear the nasal passages. Examples: cayenne, garlic, ginger and onion.
3. Rinse your sinuses. Invest in a neti pot with a spout designed for nasal rinsing.

Use warm distilled, sterile or previously boiled water to fill the pot. Regular cold water may irritate your nasal tissue. Stir in a quarter teaspoon of non-iodized salt. Stand over the sink, tilt your head to one side, and place the edge of the neti pot’s spout just inside your nostril. Tip the pot and slowly let the water move from one nostril, out the other into the sink. Don’t forget to breath through your nose.

Karla Heintz (BSc) Nutrition Educator and Author of ‘Picky! Not Me Mom! A parents’ guide to children’s nutrition.

www.karlaheintz.com