As we enter allergy season, you may find yourself needing to stock up on tissues, vitamin C, and your favorite over-the-counter medications. However, there may be a natural option to consider before heading to the nearest pharmacy:probiotics.
New research shows that probiotics, which are healthy or "friendly" bacteria in the gut, could be the next best weapon against seasonal allergies.
Probiotics for allergies?
There is currently no definitive answer, but scientific studies and analyzes are showing encouraging results and trying to better understand the relationship and connection between probiotics and allergies.
A 2015 medical reportSeventeen studies, including two randomized controlled trials, found that subjects exposed to or consuming probiotics for allergies and/or to relieve their symptoms experienced improvements in "at least one aspect of patient health."
Probiotics reduced nasal allergy symptoms in 50% of patients with 'seasonal allergies'.
This particular study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, had 173 subjects who were divided into two groups, one with a placebo and one with a probiotic. Participants in the probiotic group reported better "quality of life" and fewer nasal symptoms in patients with moderate allergic reactions to seasonal agents.
While six of the studies in the 2015 review showed no correlation, the researchers believe there is enough evidence to follow the line of studying probiotics for allergies to find a more precise link.
In addition to this reviewother studiesshow that probiotics “are a useful therapeutic agent in the treatment of allergic rhinitis”, also known as “hay fever”. However, the underlying mechanisms that explain the link between probiotics and allergies need further study to be fully understood.
AdditionallyAnalyzeshows that this alternative medical approach can also have positive results for children, especially those under the age of five.
Allergies in the US: Why We're Considering Probiotics for Allergies
About 10-30% of the US population suffer from allergies and are triggered by seasonal allergies. Pollen release, warmer seasons, and unusual weather changes can make allergens more present and triggering.
The most common symptoms of allergies and seasonal allergies are:
- itchy nose
- Sneeze
- blocked nostrils
- congested nose
- chest tightness, coughing, or wheezing
- Rash (or hives)
- Swelling (lips, tongue, fingers, etc.)
- Stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea
Laut der Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America,the statisticsshow that more than 50 million Americans suffer from various types of allergies each year andAllergy is the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the United StatesIt is not a small problem. So if you have an allergic reaction, you're not alone.
Both the medical community and the pharmaceutical industry are exploring probiotics for allergies as an optional or adjunctive therapeutic strategy to boost the population's immune system and reduce the uncomfortable, and sometimes painful, effects of allergic reactions.
people exploit bothwhat causes allergiesand how the body responds to it, and alternative and natural medical options that can act as preventative or therapeutic remedies.
How Probiotics and Allergies Interact
Probiotics are live bacteria, yeasts, and microorganisms that restore intestinal flora. The body is full of bacteria that help it function properly. Several types of bacteria can be classified as probiotics, but in general there are two types that are used to replenish gut flora, support health, and may be the best probiotics for allergies:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
These specific strains of "good" bacteria are often found in dairy products as "live, active cultures" that are used to make yogurt, kefir, and other dairy products. When taken, probiotics are beneficial to our health:
- Regenerate the flora when antibiotics are used
- Support digestive health
- It can help with symptoms.Depression
- May help relieve symptoms ofRDS
- Prevent or treat dermatitis oreczema
- Maintain stable and healthy gut microbiome
- Improve immune response
How probiotics and allergies interact is still being studied, but so far the research is pointing to positive results, and we may be on the brink of using probiotics effectively against allergies, whether to treat mild or moderate seasonal symptoms. or to prevent them.
The role of the intestine and probiotics in the immune system
The "gut" consists of a single layer of cells called the "gut epithelium" that houses the healthy gut bacteria found in probiotics. The intestinal epithelium forms a barrier against antigens and microbes and behaves as a microbial sensor, secreting substances that respond to bacterial exposure.
This, in turn, triggers a chain reaction of cells of the immune system, such as neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, phagocytic macrophages, and T cells (the search-and-destroy cells of the immune system), which ultimately instance support immunity.
While most of these cells are present in a healthy gut, this barrier is vulnerable to changes in the environment, diet, physiological state, and even emotional state that can deplete the healthy bacteria living in the intestinal barrier. Probiotics replenish this flora and maintain the barrier, and its ability to react properly to foreign substances, at optimal levels, this is how allergy probiotics work.
Natural remedies for allergies without a prescription
If you have a severe allergic reaction, natural remedies may not work fast enough to bring you relief. If you need prescription medication or are at risk of anaphylactic shock, always consult a licensed physician and follow instructions as directed.
If you suffer from mild to moderate allergic reactions that are exacerbated by seasonal changes, there may be alternative and natural remedies to try before you hit the next door over-the-counter pharmacy.
However, it is important to understand what an allergic reaction is and how these remedies and/or medications help alleviate the symptoms associated with these reactions.
- Allergic reaction:a natural reaction that occurs when the immune system mislabels a substance that most people are not allergic to (or will harm them to) as "harmful," setting off a chain reaction that tries to eliminate the offending substance to release it from the body.
The immune system activates the mast cells of the white blood cells to release histamine and use all available defense mechanisms to eliminate the allergen: mucus, skin, intestines (vomiting, diarrhea), etc.
- Antihistamines:Most prescription drugs and over-the-counter remedies consist of antihistamines, chemicals that reduce or stop the secretion of histamine and help the body restore its natural balance.
Natural medicine:
Since allergies are faulty immune responses, natural remedies focus on boosting the immune system or helping the body eliminate allergens.
- Vitamin C:It boosts the immune system and can also act as a natural antihistamine due to its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as oxidative stress has been linked to allergic reactions.
- Apple vinager:it can help reduce mucus secretion by slightly increasing metabolism and "warming up" the body, expelling mucus and possibly cleansing the lymphatic system. there are many othersbenefits of apple cider vinegar.
- probiotics:introduces "good" beneficial bacteria into the digestive tract,Strengthening of the immune system. Currently, no probiotic strain has been shown to be more effective than another against allergies, as both main groups have been studied and found to be equally effective.
- nasal wash:Using a neti pot or some type of saline nasal douche can help flush out any allergens that become trapped or trapped in the nasal cavity.
- bromelain:An enzyme found in pineapple and papaya, usually available as an extract or dietary supplement, has been classified as anti-inflammatory by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Over the counter drugs:
Before we started exploring the relationship between probiotics and allergies, there were many over-the-counter options on the market. The most common side effect of antihistamines is drowsiness, making them somewhat incompatible with everyday work life, which explains the growing interest in alternative medical options.
These are the most common antihistamines (sometimes in combination with decongestants):
- Fexofenadine (happy allergy)
- Loratadine (Alavert, Claritin)
- Cetirizina (Zyrtec-Allergie)
- Desloratadina (Clarinex)
- Levocetirizina (Xyzal)
- diphenhydramine (may cause drowsiness)
- chlorpheniramine (may cause drowsiness)
Probiotics for Allergies Bottom Line:
There is still no conclusive evidence on how probiotics for allergies work or explain the link between probiotics and allergies, but medical research is growing and has produced positive results so far. If you're wondering what to choose to help combat seasonal allergies this year, keep in mind that severe allergic reactions may still require a prescription or over-the-counter medication; therefore, do not throw away a prescription antihistamine without your doctor's approval.
However, if you are interested in preventive medicine:probioticsfor allergies it may be the easiest and most effective option; They're affordable, good for gut health and the immune system, and you can take them every day! This healthy supplement is an effective way to support overall health while finding the allergy probiotics that work for you.
Give it a try and let us know if you get any positive results. We are interested in your story.
FAQs
What is the best probiotic for allergy sufferers? ›
Best Probiotic strains for allergies
Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® the most extensively researched strain of L. acidophilus in the world - was used in a study where it was given to sufferers of allergic rhinitis caused by birch pollen.
The beneficial effects of probiotics on allergies include a reduction in hyperreactivity and inflammation due to the presence of allergens, a decrease in interleukins and eosinophils, and a reduction in TNF and INF, etc.
Which probiotic strains reduce inflammation? ›Both experimental and clinical trials have revealed that selective strains of probiotics (B. bifidum, Ruminococcus obeum, Blautia coccoides, and L. casei strain Shirota) can reduce inflammation and restore tolerance in SLE animal models [50].
How do you reduce inflammation from allergies? ›- Oral antihistamines. Antihistamines can help relieve sneezing, itching, a stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes. ...
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays. These medications improve nasal symptoms. ...
- Cromolyn sodium nasal spray. ...
- Oral decongestants.
Bifidobacterium longum – Known to be a histamine degrading probiotic . It may help reduce the post-meal inflammatory response and prevent or improve intestinal hyperpermeability (“leaky gut syndrome”). Bifidobacterium lactis – May help break down histamine and tyramine.
Can probiotics reverse allergies? ›Probiotic supplementation
Probiotics (substances that promote the proliferation of microorganisms) alleviate food allergy via several mechanisms. They increase the number of commensal gut bacteria that interact with the gut's immune system to help it tolerate food.
Depending on how sensitive you are, many people feel a difference after a few days. More fundamental effects of the probiotics such as improvements to mood, weight loss or a reduction in inflammation of your gut barrier might set in after 4-8 weeks.
What calms down an allergic reaction? ›A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as loratadine (Alavert, Claritin, others), cetirizine (Zyrtec Allergy, others) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy, others), may help relieve itching. Consider whether you might prefer a type that doesn't cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about options. Apply cold.
What supplements should I take for an allergic reaction? ›For allergy sufferers specifically, a pure and high-quality vitamin C will be your best friend. Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine. Unlike over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Sudafed and Benadryl, vitamin C not only helps reduce current allergy symptoms but it may help prevent them in the future as well.
What is the absolute best thing for inflammation? ›- Load up on anti-inflammatory foods. ...
- Cut back or eliminate inflammatory foods. ...
- Control blood sugar. ...
- Make time to exercise. ...
- Lose weight. ...
- Manage stress.
What is the number one supplement for inflammation? ›
Curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, is one of the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements. It significantly reduces inflammation associated with most chronic health conditions and may even be effective in diminishing inflammation caused by cancer.
Can probiotics get rid of inflammation? ›Probiotics and synbiotics are used to treat chronic diseases, principally due to their role in immune system modulation and the anti-inflammatory response.
Can gut inflammation cause allergies? ›However, changes in our gut microbiome make us susceptible to allergies. Besides increasing amounts of antibiotics, low-fiber, sugary and high-fat diets as well as food additives may compromise our gut health, immune cells, and the entire immune system.
What foods reduce allergy inflammation? ›- Tropical Fruits. High in Vitamin C and bromelain—a chemical that can help relieve asthma.
- Fatty Fishes. Full of omega-3 fatty acids that have been proven to greatly lessen allergy symptoms.
- Onions. ...
- Local Honey. ...
- Yogurt.
Allergic reactions can cause inflammation, which can lead to joint and muscle aches. Chronic body aches may be a sign of an immune system reaction, such as arthritis, but also can be a sign of allergies. Repeated coughing or sneezing as a result of your allergies can also cause soreness.
How can I flush histamine out of my body? ›The best way to clear histamine from the body is to start an elimination diet that involves only eating and drinking substances that contain low amounts of histamine.
Which vitamin is known to deactivate histamine? ›Vitamin C has many immune boosting properties, but is distinctively beneficial for individuals with seasonal discomfort because of its ability to deactivate histamine.
How do I stop histamine flare ups? ›- taking antihistamines.
- taking DAO enzyme supplements.
- avoiding medicines associated with histamine intolerance, which may involve switching medications.
- taking corticosteroids.
Vitamin Therapy Boosts Immunity
Studies show that IV vitamin drips reduce allergy symptoms and inflammation while strengthening the immune system. High doses of vitamin C, which is nature's antihistamine, along with zinc and magnesium, both integral to building healthy immune systems, are particularly beneficial.
Depending on what you're taking probiotics for, you may see symptom improvements anywhere between a few days to a few months.
How do you get rid of allergies forever naturally? ›
There is currently no cure for allergies. However, there are OTC and prescription medications that may relieve symptoms. Avoiding allergy triggers or reducing contact with them can help prevent allergic reactions. Over time, immunotherapy may reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
What are the signs you need probiotics? ›- Brain fog, decline in memory, or cognitive dysfunction.
- Abdominal pain, stool changes, or excess gas and bloating.
- Chronic fatigue and sleep disturbances.
- Mood disturbances, depression, or anxiety.
Research shows the best time to take a probiotic is first thing in the morning before eating breakfast or before going to sleep at night. Probiotics are most effective when taken on an empty stomach.
How do you reverse inflammation in the gut? ›- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. ...
- Try an elimination diet. ...
- Reduce your stress levels. ...
- Take probiotics. ...
- Ensure you're getting the right amount of nutrients. ...
- 5 of the Most Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Can Eat.
- Saline nasal irrigation.
- Air filters. Consider using an air filter in your indoor environments. ...
- Butterbur.
- Bromelain. Bromelain is an enzyme found in papaya and pineapple. ...
- Acupuncture.
- Probiotics.
- Honey. ...
- Air conditioners and dehumidifiers.
Allergy to foods is commonly reversible. Symptoms often clear following 3-6 months of avoidance and nutritional therapy.
What vitamin deficiency causes allergies? ›Allergies and Vitamin D
Furthermore, research shows that vitamin D can activate certain regulatory immune system cells that prevent the release of chemicals that cause and worsen allergic diseases. 1 So a deficiency in vitamin D may inhibit this regulatory mechanism, which may worsen or trigger allergic disease.
- Antihistamines.
- Stinging nettle.
- Quercetin.
- Bromelain.
- Butterbur.
Summary. Natural antihistamines may help you control your seasonal allergies. Common ones are stinging nettle, vitamin C, quercetin, butterbur, bromelain, and probiotics. Some alternative practices—such as acupuncture, nasal irrigation, and exercise—may also help you manage symptoms.
What can I take daily to reduce inflammation? ›- Curcumin. Curcumin is a compound found in the spice turmeric, which is commonly used in Indian cuisine and known for its bright yellow hue. ...
- Fish oil. ...
- Ginger. ...
- Resveratrol. ...
- Spirulina. ...
- Vitamin D. ...
- Bromelain. ...
- Green tea extract.
What vitamin helps with inflammatory? ›
Vitamin E. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin E boosts your immune system and may also ease inflammation. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you might find it helps manage pain when used with standard treatment. You can easily get it from the foods you eat.
Does magnesium help with inflammation? ›Magnesium has been shown to help fight inflammation by reducing markers such as CRP and interleukin-6.
What is the most powerful anti-inflammatory? ›What is the strongest anti-inflammatory medication? Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available.
Does apple cider vinegar help with inflammation? ›Apple cider vinegar is a strong anti-inflammatory so it can help decrease pain associated with an inflammatory condition, such as the multiple types of Arthritis. It also prevents lactic acid buildup in the muscles, which not only keeps energy high but also decreases soreness and achiness in the muscles.
How do I get rid of inflammation and inflammation? ›For acute inflammation, rest, ice and good wound care often relieve the discomfort in a few days. If you have chronic inflammation, your healthcare provider may recommend: Supplements: Certain vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D) and supplements (zinc) may reduce inflammation and enhance repair.
What is the main cause of inflammation in the body? ›Causes of an inflammation
Pathogens (germs) like bacteria, viruses or fungi. External injuries like scrapes or damage through foreign objects (for example a thorn in your finger) Effects of chemicals or radiation.
- Abdominal (belly) pain.
- Diarrhea (sometimes alternating with constipation) or urgent need to poop (bowel urgency).
- Gas and bloating.
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.
- Mucus or blood in stool.
- Upset stomach.
Allergic inflammation is caused by the development of an allergen-induced immune response and can lead to several diseases, including asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, anaphylaxis, urticaria and atopic dermatitis1.
What organ controls allergies? ›Lymph nodes (small organs shaped like beans, which are located throughout the body and connect via the lymphatic vessels) Lymphatic vessels (a network of channels throughout the body that carries lymphocytes to the lymphoid organs and bloodstream) Peyer's patches (lymphoid tissue in the small intestine)
Does turmeric help with allergies? ›Turmeric is a common, yellow-orange spice that's derived from the turmeric plant. It's often used in Asian dishes and can do wonders for your allergies. Due to curcumin, its primary ingredient, turmeric can reduce the swelling and irritation of allergic rhinitis.
Is turmeric a natural antihistamine? ›
The active component of turmeric is curcumin, a polyphenolic phytochemical, with anti-inflammatory, antiamyloid, antiseptic, antitumor, and antioxidative properties. Curcumin was reported to have antiallergic properties with inhibitory effect on histamine release from mast cells.
Does Ashwagandha help with allergies? ›To bring Vata back into balance, use calming herbs such as ashwagandha, which is also an immune modulator that calms the immune system's response to allergens.
Why am I allergic to everything all of a sudden? ›Adult-onset allergies can occur seemingly out of nowhere due to exposure to new allergens in the environment, family history and changes in the immune system. The most common food allergies in adults are peanuts, fish, shellfish such as shrimp, lobster and tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans and cashews).
What triggers histamine inflammation? ›If you have a food allergy, histamines are in on that response process, too. When you accidentally eat or drink something you shouldn't, they'll work in your gut to trigger your allergic reaction. Some foods are also naturally high in histamines. These include aged and fermented foods and alcohol (especially red wine).
Does reducing inflammation help allergies? ›Dr. Shroff said that a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet with minimal processed and fatty foods can help support your immune system, your overall health, and your ability to fight allergies.
What probiotics are good for allergic rhinitis? ›The probiotics NVP-1703 is a combination of bifidobacterium longum IM55 and lactobacillus plantarum IM76. The two strains are isolated from the human gut and fermented food respectively. A total of 95 subjects suffering from mild to moderate rhinitis for at least two years were recruited.
Can you take Zyrtec with probiotics? ›Interactions between your drugs
No interactions were found between lactobacillus rhamnosus gg and Zyrtec. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Probiotics may have an important role in the prevention and treatment of allergic rhinitis. The clinical benefit of probiotic therapy depends on numerous factors, such as type of bacterium, route of administration, dosing, regimen, and other underlying host factors.
What are the signs that probiotics are working? ›- Less stomach pain. For some people, certain probiotics can help with stomach pain and cramps. ...
- More frequent poops. ...
- Less bloating. ...
- Improved sleep. ...
- Better mood, memory, and mental clarity. ...
- Fewer vaginal infections.
Yes, it can; however, the chance is minimal. Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining that the overactive immune system may trigger. However, with the proper treatment, you can manage your allergy and digestive issues like gastritis easily.
How I cured my allergic rhinitis? ›
There is no cure for allergic rhinitis, but the effects of the condition can be lessened with the use of nasal sprays and antihistamine medications. A doctor may recommend immunotherapy - a treatment option that can provide long-term relief. Steps can also be taken to avoid allergens.
What vitamin helps allergic rhinitis? ›Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine by reducing the amount of histamine your body produces in response to an allergen. It might help reduce mild symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and watery eyes due to allergic rhinitis.
What medications Cannot be taken with probiotics? ›Some medications that may interact with certain probiotics include: antibiotics, antifungals (such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin, nystatin).
Can probiotics trigger histamine? ›Some probiotics can produce histamine within the digestive tract. Those with histamine intolerance may want to avoid these strains of bacteria.
What conditions should you not use probiotics with? ›- For those who are severely immunosuppressed. ...
- For those who have pancreatitis. ...
- For patients who are in the ICU. ...
- For those that have melaena (dark blood in their faeces)
- For those with a central venous catheter. ...
- For infants with short bowel syndrome.
- Intranasal corticosteroids. Intranasal corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. ...
- Oral corticosteroids. Oral corticosteroids are pill medications that work like intranasal steroids. ...
- Decongestants. ...
- Saline irrigation. ...
- Antibiotics. ...
- Immunotherapy.
Probiotics have been shown to modulate the immune system back to a Th1 response. Several in vitro studies suggest a role for probiotics in treating allergic disorders. Human trials demonstrate a limited benefit for the use of probiotics in atopic dermatitis in a preventive as well as a therapeutic capacity.
What herbs are good for sinus allergies? ›- Goldenrod. Goldenrod has three very promising words often associated with it, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine. ...
- Butterbur. ...
- Horseradish or Wasabi. ...
- Mullein Leaf. ...
- Stinging Nettle Leaf. ...
- Rosemary.