#NoMeds: Tips for Allergies

May 18, 2015

Each spring, there seems to be a sizeable amount of the US population that suffers with some sort of allergy, with even the TV weather anchor encouraging their audience to stay indoors if the pollen levels are considered to be too high, with a strategically placed allergy medicine sponsoring that segment.

Now, I would like to propose a question: Do we all breathe the same air?

I know that may seem like a silly question and easy answer, but if we all breathe the same air and not everyone “suffers” with allergies, there must be some reason why certain individuals stop at their local pharmacy retailer for a quick runny nose or itchy eye fix.

I have used a logical approach to those who come to our clinic with health concerns, which is to look for patterns. I know if I can determine a common pattern and then reverse the pattern, I should be able to help the issue at hand. The pattern for allergies is one of poor digestion of certain food groups, including gluten, dairy, peanut butter and sugar.

Those who have allergy-based symptoms tend to have a “sniffling” nose when they regularly consume those four food items. The scenario for this practice member’s pattern typically goes like this:

-They choose something to eat with sugar as a main ingredient (which compromises the immune system, creating a cough). This may lead to a decision to go to your primary physician who will suggest an antibiotic.

-The antibiotic alters your body’s flora or bacteria in the intestine. Now, a literal battle ensues between the good and bad guys (bacteria). Over time, your digestive system is similar to a battle ground with debris everywhere.

-Continually eating foods with protein, including gluten in breads, peanut butter and dairy, slip through the intestinal walls and are treated as a foreign invader or enemy and are attacked.

-Your body uses histamine to create a mucous barrier protecting you from the attack. Antihistamines alter the symptoms of the allergy, but does not get to the cause. You will forever need to take the antihistamine unless you make the decision to alter your diet and include LIVING foods, especially green vegetables. Allergy symptoms WILL go away if you eliminate the foods mentioned. In regards to replacing those four, switch out peanut butter with almond butter, try or make almond or coconut milk (unsweetened), go gluten (and maybe grain free) for one month, and enjoy the weather!