Spring Allergy Season and Your Diet: What the Research Suggests

Spring is beautiful in our region — and for the estimated 80 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies, it is also one of the most challenging months of the year. While diet cannot replace antihistamines or allergy medication for most people, a growing body of research suggests that dietary patterns can influence the severity of allergic response through their effects on inflammation, gut microbiome composition and immune regulation.

Several dietary components have been associated with reduced allergy severity in clinical studies. Quercetin — a flavonoid found in apples, onions, capers and broccoli — has natural antihistamine-like properties and anti-inflammatory effects in cell studies and some human trials. Vitamin C, which is also abundant in many of the same foods, supports immune function and may help clear histamine more efficiently. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown in multiple trials to reduce the inflammatory mediators that drive allergic symptoms. Probiotic-rich fermented foods support a diverse gut microbiome, which in turn helps regulate immune tolerance.

Conversely, foods that promote inflammation — refined carbohydrates, added sugars, ultra-processed foods and excessive saturated fat — may worsen allergic response by elevating baseline inflammatory markers. While the research on diet and allergies is still evolving and direct clinical evidence remains limited compared to pharmaceutical interventions, building an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern has broad health benefits that extend well beyond allergy season. At NutriGreene, we work with clients on food allergies and dietary strategies for immune health year-round.

Sources

• Skypala IJ, Venter C, eds. Food Hypersensitivity: Diagnosing and Managing Food Allergies and Intolerance. Wiley-Blackwell. 2009.

• Shaikh B, et al. Quercetin: a flavonoid phytoestrogen ameliorates homocysteine-induced apoptosis. J Cell Biochem. 2010;109(5):1062-1070.

Ready to take the next step in your nutrition journey? Schedule an appointment at NutriGreene today. www.nutrigreene.com | (203) 429-4211 | info@nutrigreene.com