PREPARING FOR SPRING & SUMMER ALLERGIES

Spring is here and we have already witnessed trees budding and spring flowers making their ascent. Or, you may have already noticed itchy ears and nose accompanied by sneezing. Our seasonal allergies on the West Coast start as early as February, with Alder trees being the first to release pollen. Late winter and spring allergies are usually related to trees and shrubs while late spring and summer are often grass pollen allergies. Environment Canada has pollen counts and charts available on their website for more information.

Preparing your body beginning 2 months before symptoms start can help to reduce your body’s response to pollen. Allergens such as pollen cause histamine to be released from pockets in white blood cells that sit in the skin and along mucus membrane surfaces such as the nose, mouth and throat. Histamine is responsible for itchy eyes, nose, skin, inner ears and palate and runny noses. Potent natural anti- histamines that can reduce the release of histamine are Vitamin C and quercetin. Quercetin has also been studied for its antiviral, anti- inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Food sources that have higher amounts of quercetin include citrus fruits, broccoli, red onions, green tea and red grapes.  Finding the right dose of supplemental quercetin will lead to a drastic decrease in allergy symptoms.

Intra-venous (IV) therapy using Vitamin C in moderate doses will prepare the body for seasonal allergies and reduce the potency of symptoms. I personally noticed a reduction in symptoms of about 90% when coupled with quercetin.

IV Vitamin C is offered at Downtown Wellness Centre and Vitalia Health Care and should be considered starting in March, April and May for tree and grass allergies.

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