NutraChamps Blog

Tag: natural remedies

Natural Anti-Aging Hacks to Look & Feel Your Best!
Ah, aging, it’s something inevitable for us all, and no matter how much we want to avoid it, we’ll all have to face it. Aging isn’t something to frown upon; there are so many blessings that come with age, such as more wisdom, life experience, and lessons. As our body ages, it is bound to go through changes both internally and externally. After the average age of 25 the first signs of aging can start to become apparent. Cellularly, the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid begins to slow down in the body, which shows on our skin, resulting in finer lines and wrinkles. Creeping up to age 30, you may even begin to notice your body aching more. These are all normal signs of aging, and the good news is that there are natural ways to support aging healthily.

If you’re looking to take more of a natural approach as you age gracefully, keep reading to find out how!

Increase Your Antioxidant Intake

Let’s be real, no matter your age, consuming foods high in antioxidants will always benefit the body. What are antioxidants? They’re compounds in vegetables and fruits such as broccoli, spinach, carrots, raspberries, strawberries, papaya, and so much more. Antioxidants act as defenders in the body and fight off free radicals which cause oxidation in the body. Too many free radicals lead to oxidative stress, which may result in disease and rapid aging. For this reason, it is super important to maintain a balanced diet as you age full of whole foods and a variety of fruits and vegetables of different colours.

Take a Collagen Supplement

Although collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, our bodies gradually make less of it as we age. Certain factors can cause collagen to decrease even more rapidly as we age, such as smoking, drinking alcohol in excess, lack of sleep, and too much sun exposure. In recent years, collagen supplements have undergone more studies and some have shown promising results in joint and skin health. Both animal and plant foods contain materials for collagen production in our bodies. Therefore, taking a high-quality collagen supplement daily can increase skin elasticity and fewer facial wrinkles. At NutraChamps, we have a few options for collagen supplements that our customers love!
- NutraChamps Collagen Peptides Powder: An unflavored collagen powder that is tasteless and odorless and dissolves in a flash. Whether in hot or cold liquids, water, coffee, smoothies, tea, recipes, or anything, you’ll love how quickly and easily it mixes.
- NutraChamps Multi-Collagen capsules: This complete collagen complex includes all five types of collagen in each serving. Easy to take on the go, just 3 capsules with food daily!
- NutraChamps collagen boosting gummies: Peachy flavored and packing a powerful punch these gummies contain vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Organic Alma fruit, and Organic Goji berry to assist the bodily process of producing collagen!
Exercise Regularly

Exercise is beneficial for us in numerous ways. Did you know that it is a highly effective way to prevent a variety of factors that lead to morbidity and mortality? This study states that individually adapted training programs can allow people to develop maximum physical potential, improve mental and physical well-being, and even support the negative impacts of aging. Exercising for anti-aging doesn’t always need to be intense. Walking daily, practicing yoga, and even stretching can all count and benefit the body well into your later years.

Get Enough Sleep

We all know the importance of sleep and can feel the impact when deprived of getting enough. When it comes to aging, sleep remains important as it lowers the risk of disease and may be just as important as diet and exercise. It has been shown that as aging occurs, less sleep may occur with changes in the production of hormones such as melatonin and cortisol. Certain things may help regulate your sleep cycle as you age, which include:
- Following a regular sleep schedule
- Avoiding naps too late in the day
- Keeping the bedroom a comfortable temperature
- Using low light in the evenings
- Avoiding large meals too close to bedtime
- Staying away from caffeine and alcohol too late in the day
- Limiting screen time before bed
Maintain a Youthful and Positive Mindset

The mind-body connection is real. How we think, and our overall mindset plays a factor in how we feel. According to recent research, people with positive attitudes about growing old tend to live longer than those with negative thoughts about aging. This study took 14,000 people over 50 and found that people who were more satisfied with the aging process had lower risks for conditions such as stroke, cancer, and heart disease! A researcher named Lee from the Centre for Health and Happiness at Harvard suggested developing a positive attitude towards aging. Some of these suggestions include:
- Maintaining a sense of purpose
- Staying socially active
- Trying new activities
By trying out some of these natural anti-aging hacks, you may see and feel positive benefits in your life! Aging doesn’t have to be drab, in fact, life could get better with age if you decided that! We live in times where so much information is available to age gracefully. We’re fortunate to have the ability to learn more when we evolve as a society.
March 15, 2024
Boost Your Iron Levels Naturally: Unleashing the Power of 5 Remarkable Remedies!
Iron deficiency got you feeling down? Well, fear not, because we’re about to embark on an iron-rich adventure that will put a spring back in your step! Forget the mundane routine of popping pills—today, we’re going to explore five natural remedies that will help you reclaim your iron throne. So, grab a seat and prepare to be wowed by these fantastic alternatives!

Spinach: Popeye’s Secret Weapon

Ah, spinach—a leafy green powerhouse that deserves a standing ovation! This mighty vegetable is not just a favorite of our friendly neighborhood sailor but a treasure trove of iron. Just one cup of cooked spinach contains a hefty dose of this vital mineral. You can toss it in your salads, stir it into soups, or blend it into smoothies.

Fortified Cereals: The Breakfast Bounty

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s time to make it an iron-rich affair. Look for cereals that are fortified with iron. These crunchy delights will not only jumpstart your morning but also provide you with a significant amount of iron to fuel your day. Just make sure to check the labels and choose wisely. Breakfast is about to get a whole lot more exciting!

Lean Red Meat: The Iron King

Lean red meat is another option when it comes to boosting your iron levels. Beef, pork, and lamb pack a punch in terms of iron content, making them a delicious choice for iron-deficient folks. So, fire up that grill, sizzle those steaks, and let your taste buds do a happy dance. The iron kingdom is about to be conquered!

Pumpkin Seeds: Tiny but Mighty

When it comes to iron-rich snacks, don’t underestimate the power of pumpkin seeds. These little nuggets of goodness are loaded with essential nutrients, including iron. A handful of pumpkin seeds can give you a substantial iron boost, making them a convenient and tasty option to munch on throughout the day. So, grab a handful, feel the crunch, and let those iron levels soar!

NutraChamps Iron Gummies: A Chewable Delight

Who says boosting your iron levels can’t be fun? NutraChamps Iron Gummies are a delicious, chewable solution that will leave you craving more. Packed with the goodness of iron, these gummies are a delightful way to supplement your iron intake. Say goodbye to dull, chalky tablets and hello to a fruity, flavorful journey to better iron levels.

Iron deficiency doesn’t have to be a drag anymore. With these five natural remedies in your arsenal, you’ll be able to wave goodbye to fatigue and welcome vitality with open arms. From the leafy kingdom of spinach to the fortified breakfast cereals, from lean red meats to the mighty pumpkin seeds, and the chewable delight of NutraChamps Iron Gummies, you now have an abundance of options to restore your iron levels naturally.

Remember, though, if you suspect iron deficiency or have severe symptoms, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Here’s to a vibrant, iron-rich life!

Sources:

USDA FoodData Central: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/

National Institutes of Health: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/

NutraChamps: [insert source link here] (Note: As an AI, I don’t have browsing capabilities, so please insert the relevant source link for NutraChamps.)
June 22, 2023
Trying to Ditch Caffeine? These Are 7 Natural Energy Boosters!
Are you addicted to your morning cup of coffee and don’t know what you’d do without it? You’re not alone! Many people steadily rely on caffeine to get them through the day and actually deal with side effects if they skip their cup of Jo. A stat from Statista in June 2022 surveyed 1,592 Americans about coffee consumption. A massive 73.9% of them said that they drink coffee every day! This just goes to show how much coffee is actually consumed in America.

Although the coffee craze definitely isn’t going anywhere, more and more people are starting to look for other alternatives to caffeine. Even though it does the job, if you consume too much of it some side effects can occur such as:
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Dehydration
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Headaches
Whether you’re dealing with a caffeine addiction or just looking to cut back and try alternatives, we are going to give you some of the best natural ways to boost energy and get you feeling alive!

Here are 7 ways to boost your energy levels without caffeine:

Exercise

You might be used to rushing around in the morning and coffee being your saving grace, but what if gave yourself more time and started the day with a morning workout? There is plenty of research out there showing that morning exercise improves focus, mental clarity, and energy levels. Exercising helps to increase oxygen and nutrients in the body. Not only that but physical activity also helps bump up the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitter, endorphins which provides you with more happiness.

Staying hydrated

Did you know that mild dehydration could be a reason as to why you feel tired? If you’re not drinking enough water throughout the day chances are you could feel a lot more sluggish. Water helps to flush toxins out of the body, transport important nutrients, and provide energy. If you aren’t a fan of drinking water you can always try adding some lemon or fruits to make it taste better!

Breathe deeply

You might not even be aware of it completely but shallow breathing can make you feel more sleepy. If you find yourself hitting an afternoon slump and wanting to reach for another cup of coffee, try deep breathing instead! Taking a couple of minutes away from what you’re doing to take some deep and consistent belly breaths will provide your body and mind a dose of rejuvenation and refreshment.

Eat healthy snacks

Although it’s easy to get tempted by a chocolate bar of bag of chips when we’re lacking energy, reaching for a healthy snack can make a huge difference. Food is fuel and giving your body some extra nutrients can help sustain energy levels throughout the day. Some examples of great snacks that provide energy include: peanut butter and banana toast, greek yogurt and granola, hummus and veggies, or a handful of almonds!

Supplements

It can be tough to get all of the essential nutrients our bodies need to thrive on a daily basis. Supplements can be a fantastic support for energy levels and plenty of other health concerns. Some of our favorite NutraChamps supplements for energy include: Korean Panax Ginseng, D3+K2 drops, Maca powder, and B complex drops!

Get a good night’s sleep

This one might seem like a no brainer but it’s definitely one that shouldn’t be skipped. Nothing beats a good quality sleep for sustained energy levels. It’s during sleeping that our body and brain repairs and recovers. Some proven ways to help get a better night’s sleep include limiting or eliminating caffeine, creating a relaxing nighttime routine, and even taking a supplement like magnesium!

Reduce alcohol consumption

Although a few glasses of wine at night can feel good in the moment, overtime alcohol causes damage in the body. It has been shown that drinking alcohol impacts blood sugar levels which can deplete energy. Even just overdoing it on the weekends can cause energy levels to be impacted throughout the week. If you want to feel more clear, energized, and refreshed then you should definitely limit the amount of alcohol you’re consuming.

We hope that these tips have made you realize that it actually isn’t difficult to cut back or eliminate caffeine consumption with so many natural alternatives that exist! The truth is, when we take care of our body then our energy levels will follow. If you do experience chronic fatigue accompanied with any other symptoms, there might be an underlying cause. We always recommend consulting with a professional healthcare practitioner to further inquire about long-term fatigue.

If you’ve made it this far, let us know which one of these energy tips was your favorite in the comment section below the article!
May 25, 2023
Best Natural Remedies for Menstrual Camps
In her reproductive years, a woman’s body goes through four phases of the menstrual cycle. These four phases include: the menstruation phase, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Each of these phases serves a unique and necessary purpose for preparing a woman to become pregnant, or to get a period each month. A lot of these phases of the cycle go unnoticed within the body except for the menstrual phase.

During this time, not only does a woman begin to bleed -she may also experience a variety of symptoms and sensations that accompany the shedding of the inner lining of the uterus. Some of these symptoms can include:
- bloating
- breakouts
- pimples
- fatigue
- cramps
The severity of these symptoms range from woman to woman, some being more severe than others. One thing is for sure, it’s definitely not always a pleasant experience. Luckily, there are some great natural remedies that can alleviate some of this discomfort during a woman’s period.

Keep on reading to find out our favourite natural ways to alleviate cramps and other period symptoms!

Light stretching and yoga

Not only is yoga a gentle way of moving your body, it also helps you connect with your breath which can help oxygen to circulate in the body. In turn, this can help with muscles and especially the uterine muscles which cause the cramping to occur.

Some of the best poses to try out with period cramps include:

Cobra pose – Begin by lying on your stomach with legs extended behind you. Place the palms next to the shoulders and slowly lift your chest off the ground. This helps to support the spine and get the breath flowing deep into the lower body.

Cat-Cow Pose – Start by going onto your hands and knees. To enter cow pose, begin to inhale deeply and drop the belly while tilting your head upwards. Tilt your pelvis back so your tailbone sticks up. For cat pose you’re going to tilt your pelvis forward and tuck your tailbone. The spine should naturally round and you’re going to drop your head and gaze towards your belly button. This is going to help and gently stretch the abdominal muscles as well as increase circulation within the body.

Childs pose – Begin on your hands and knees, lower your hips back towards your heels, and rest your forehead on the mat or a prop. Relax your shoulders and hips, breathe deeply, and hold the pose for 30 seconds to a few minutes before releasing. It’s a great way to stretch your back, hips, and thighs while calming your mind.

Using a heating pad

Heating pads are a lifesaver to so many women during the time of their period, especially when it comes to cramping. Heat helps to relax muscles and provides a sense of comfort and relief.

If you don’t have a heating pad, no sweat! You can also try taking a warm bath or shower to receive the same benefits.

Drinking herbal teas

Tea is comforting, it’s warm and delicious – almost like a hug in beverage form. There actually are several teas with scientific evidence of reducing menstrual cramping and pain!

Some of the most highly recommended include:
- Ginger tea
- Chamomile tea
- Fennel tea
- Green tea
Taking magnesium

This mineral is a saviour when it comes to effectively relaxing muscles. The uterine muscles contract during menstruation and that’s why cramping can be a result of this. One great way to get magnesium is through eating magnesium rich foods such as dark chocolate or leafy greens. Substituting with a high quality supplement is also a great way to help out! At NutraChamps we have a magnesium, zinc, and D3 supplement which will definitely support this time of the month.

Massaging

One study from the National Library of Medicine found that massage therapy can help to alleviate uterine spasms by relaxing the uterus. This is not only great for those who experience period pain, but also women who have endometriosis.

It’s important to get a gentle abdominal massage for this pain but getting a full body massage can always help to promote all-around relaxation and less stress as well.

If as a woman you dread this time of the month, hopefully trying out some of our natural remedy suggestions help you out! Dealing with monthly pain isn’t always an easy thing, but there are absolutely ways to support the body during a period. Here’s to more pain-free periods overall!
April 27, 2023
6 Natural Beauty Hacks You Need in Your Life
When we look good, we feel good. When we take care of ourself on the outside, it definitely shows! Self-care and beauty tricks don’t have to be overcomplicated and expensive. What if we told you that many everyday things you buy from the grocery store can actually take your appearance to the next level? In this article we are going to be spilling all the tea on natural beauty hacks that are super easy to try and completely non-toxic.

Nowadays, so many beauty products on the market are loaded with tons of harmful additives and preservatives. It can be tough to navigate what products are good for you and which will do more harm in the long run.

With these 6 natural beauty hacks, you won’t have to worry about whether these are clean alternatives or not. We got you covered with proven tips and tricks that will give you a radiant glow.

Coconut oil pulling

Many of us have a jar of this laying around our kitchen, but it’s also a great addition to your bathroom cabinet! Coconut oil comes with a host of great benefits, not only taken internally but used externally too. Coconut oil pulling is an ancient practice that has been used to get rid of mouth bacteria and promote oral hygiene. Many people have noticed a difference in better breath, prevention of cavities, improved gum health, and even whiter teeth!

To try coconut oil pulling you need to measure one tablespoon of it and swish it around your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to swallow any and start for a shorter period of time if you’re just trying it out. Once you’re done swishing, spit out the coconut oil and rinse your mouth with water.

Try this out consistently to see the best results! We also recommend trying this out first thing in the morning.

Using a gua sha

This method is another ancient practice, used in traditional Chinese medicine, to be exact. A gua sha is a smooth edged tool that is meant to be used on your face to increase circulation, blood flow, and relieve muscle pain. If you’ve been on tiktok, you have probably seen that this method has caught on as a craze, especially during covid. Many people have seen noticeable results after using a gua sha consistently and now can’t live without it!

Some of the best practices for using this tool include:
- Using light to medium pressure
- Being mindful
- Never rubbing or pulling delicate skin around the eyes
- Using upward motions
Apple cider vinegar rinse for hair

Another versatile product that has been used both internally, as well as externally! Apple cider vinegar hosts a ton of amazing benefits, one of them being a star of detoxifying. An apple cider vinegar rinse for the hair can leave you with a healthier scalp, stronger hair, less frizz, and proper cleansing. Experts say that an apple cider vinegar hair rinse is safe for all hair types!

This hack is especially great for those who use a lot of hair products such as dry shampoo, hairspray, etc. It helps to remove all of the icky buildup and leaves you with a clean scalp!

All you need to do is mix five parts water to one part vinegar in a spray bottle, spray it on your scalp and work it in well with your fingers. It’s always best to leave it for a few minutes before rinsing and once your done just using a light conditioner. It’s best to do this once per week for the best results!

Castor oil for eyelash and eyebrow hair growth

This oil comes from the castor bean which grows in Eastern parts of the world. It is high in antioxidants and omega 6’s. Although there is no scientific evidence that proves castor oil for hair growth, many people have noticed incredible results from using this consistently. It nourishes and can be used daily on eyebrows and eyelashes. Experts say that within two to three weeks you should notice a difference in less breakage and more luster in your lashes and eyebrows.

It definitely doesn’t provide instant results but definitely worth trying in comparison to growth serums that can be filled with harmful or dangerous ingredients.

Ground coffee for exfoliating

Oh the mighty coffee bean, so great for providing so many of us with the daily energy boost we need. Next time you have some extra ground coffee laying around, don’t put it to waste. These grounds can be used as a skin exfoliant in the shower and leave your skin feeling softer and smoother.

All you need to do is mix ground coffee, sugar, coconut oil, and a touch of water to form an exfoliating paste for the body. This will help to scrape away dead skin sells and leave you feeling invigorated and energized. It’s excellent to use before shaving as well for less bumps and ingrown hairs!

Biotin for hair, skin, and nails

One natural hack that is so underrated is taking biotin! It is also known as vitamin B7 and seriously helps your hair to grow long and strong! It also strengthens your nails and gives you a healthy skin glow. There are natural food sources of biotin that exist out there but one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting enough for those beauty benefits is through taking a quality supplement. NutraChamps sells biotin in two forms- gummies and liquid drops! If you look at the reviews on nutrachamps.com or Amazon you will see so many thrilled customers noticing a difference from taking biotin!

All in all, beauty doesn’t have to be super complicated. By incorporating some of these natural hacks into your self-care routines you will begin to see and feel results. Do you have any natural beauty hacks that you love? Let us know by commenting on this article!
March 23, 2023
Black seed oil: A Wonder Cure that’s Sweeter than Honey!
When it comes to natural remedies, black seed oil is the bee’s knees (and we don’t mean just because it’s darker than honey!). This potent oil has been used for thousands of years for its various health benefits, and it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves. Whether you’re looking to improve your skin, boost your immune system, or just live your life to the fullest, black seed oil is the answer you’ve been searching for.

Let’s start with the outside: using black seed oil topically is like a love letter to your skin. The oil is chock-full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that work together to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. From reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to helping to soothe irritated skin, black seed oil is a skincare superhero. Plus, it’s light and non-greasy, so you can use it as part of your daily routine without worrying about feeling oily.

Black seed oil isn’t just good for your skin—it’s good for your insides too! The oil has been shown to have a variety of health benefits when taken internally, including boosting your immune system and improving digestion. It’s also packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins that are essential for overall health and wellness. In fact, black seed oil has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, infections, and even asthma.

One of the most exciting things about black seed oil is that it’s easy to consume. NutraChamps has black seed oil capsules that are convenient to take, making it a great option for anyone looking to add the oil to their daily routine. Whether you’re a busy bee who’s always on the go or a chill bird who just wants to take care of yourself, black seed oil is the perfect addition to your self-care routine.

So, what are you waiting for? Give black seed oil a try and see the buzz-worthy results for yourself. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5836918/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6517440/
February 3, 2023
Allergies Got You Down?
Allergy season is among us.

Before you stock up on your antihistamines, tissues, and nasal sprays, consider some of the natural ways you can ease your allergies.

Don’t get me wrong, I know a shot of Flonase will ease my symptoms quicker and will allow me to get through my day with much more ease, but I also understand that some folks like to explore the natural options first. The problem with that is that it’s often what’s going on inside the body that needs to be addressed. Because we can’t see what’s happening inside our bodies, we may not know what to tackle first.

In the United States, around 15% to 20% of the population has allergic rhinitis. Although the main culprits of seasonal allergies are grass, weed, and tree pollen, hay fever can also be caused by other things such as dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and cockroaches. 😖

Before you reach for the over-the-counter meds, consider trying these tips out if you can manage!

Close the windows – When you leave your windows open, you risk letting in a lot of dust, dander, and pollen.

Use air conditioning in warm weather to control dust mites and reduce humidity.

Another thing many of us forget is to change air filters. Depending on your personal lifestyle, you may need to change your filters more or less often. If you smoke or have pets, you will want to change your air filter more often. If not, every 3 months is a safe bet!

Air dry your clothes on a clothing rack (instead of outdoors) – Like the last point, drying your clothes is deadly for your allergies! If you can’t handle dander, pollen, or dust, why would you want to soak your clothes in those pesky allergens outside?!

Although it is a great option instead of using your dryer, there is an energy-saving alternative! Consider investing in a Clothes Drying Rack that can fold up and fit in your closet. You can get them at a pretty affordable price online, at Walmart, or even used on Facebook Marketplace.

When I was young, my favorite memory was when my grandmother used to dry all of our clothes outside. Because my allergies hadn’t yet developed, I loved putting clothes on straight from the clothes rack while they were nice and warm from the sun. 🙂

Wash the day off before you go to bed – As lazy or as tired as you may be, your body carries these allergens as well. I speak for myself when I say that sometimes after work, the last thing I want to do is shower. I tend to want to plop down on the couch and turn on an episode of reality TV on Netflix, but once I realized my allergies were likely following me inside my condo, I had to change that routine.

Allergens stick to your hair and skin, so washing up after spending time outside can help you prevent spreading these allergens to clothes, furniture, pillowcases, and other surfaces.

This is your opportunity to try a nice and relaxing Epsom salt bath! If you do not enjoy baths and don’t have time for a full-body shower, simply shake out your hair and wash your face!

No pets in bed! – Actually, the best way to ensure pet dander doesn’t affect your sleep is to keep pets out of your bedroom, entirely. I know this is difficult and sometimes impossible. These are just some tips to take into consideration if you’ve got the space and/or rooms.

Close the doors to bedrooms when you are not home to keep pets out. Cover vents with a dense material like cheesecloth so that pet dander does not flow from room to room or floor to floor. Animal allergens are sticky, so wash and change your animal’s favorite furniture, food and water bowls, and toys often.

Vacuum and sweep – I always feel better once I’ve swept, vacuumed, and mopped the floors, but it can be a pain to finally work up the energy to perform these tasks.

My vacuum is not the greatest. This can definitely affect you if you have severe allergies because your vacuum could potentially be pushing dust and dirt around rather than sucking it up.

Consider purchasing a certified asthma & allergy friendly vacuum. You may even need to wear a mask while doing housework, and I guess that’s not the worst thing in the world… many of us have already grown accustomed to wearing a facemask to and from work every day.

Another suggestion is to leave your house for several hours after you’ve cleaned it. This is because it will take some time to let the dust and dander settle. Leaving the house for a bit and then returning can help clear your system!

Supplement – Although supplements won’t get rid of your allergy symptoms, there’s a high probability that they can enhance or boost your immune system when you’re feeling the change of season weighing you down.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C prevents the formation of histamine, while typical over-the-counter antihistamine medications work by interfering with the histamine after it is produced. Vitamin C’s immune-enhancing effect also makes it essential in preventing infection as well as in shortening the duration of an illness.
- Probiotics: This likely isn’t the first thing you’d think of to relieve allergies, but probiotics contain bacteria that have shown to be effective for treating allergic rhinitis. Look out for the following kinds to fight off allergic reactions: Lactobacillus GG, L.gasseri, L. acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium lactis. These won’t work as well as OTC antihistamines, and you certainly can’t just take probiotics the moment you feel the onset of symptoms. You’ll want to be taking probiotics year-round and maybe change it up with every season.
- Multivitamin: Scientific studies have shown that the majority of us are deficient in many essential nutrients due to the decrease in nutrients in foods, poor dietary habits, and other factors like caffeine, drugs, stress, and pollution. Without the essential vitamins and minerals that keep our bodies strong and healthy, you risk issues with proper growth, metabolism, digestion, immune system function, muscle and nerve function, and detoxification in the liver. Men and Women typically take gender-specific products, but consult your GP for a product that will work best for you.
- Omega-3 Fish Oils: Healthy fats like Omega-3 from responsibly-sourced EPA/DHA are anti-inflammatory, making them useful for preventing heart disease, lowering cholesterol, helps to moisten the skin, and improve bowel function. One German study involving 568 people found that a high content of omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cells or in the diet was associated with a decreased risk of hay fever.
- Plant Sterols: Helping to modulate your immune system, meaning it will bring you back down to a healthy medium. For example, if you are running on high, like when you have allergies or for those who have autoimmune diseases, they can help to bring you back down to a regular level. On the other end of the spectrum, if you are running on low and have a cold or flu, these sterols help to increase your immune system function. Sterols can also decrease levels of cortisol (stress) which is essential for keeping your immune system strong.
Medication – OTC meds are a great option for relieving allergy symptoms. These can provide a great deal of relief for those who suffer from hay fever. Depending on what you prefer, some of you may want to go for an antihistamine, corticosteroid nasal spray, decongestant, or immunotherapy.
- Antihistamines: These block histamine, the symptom-causing chemical released by your immune system during an allergic reaction. Some people notice decreasing effectiveness if they use antihistamines daily over the course of several days, at which point, you may want to reach out to a medical professional for next steps.
- Corticosteroids: These relieve symptoms by suppressing allergy-related inflammation. They come in nasal sprays, inhalers, eye drops, pills, liquids, and skin creams. Using corticosteroids for short, occasional courses, no longer than 3 weeks is unlikely to cause negative side effects.
- Decongestant: Usually used for congestion (stuffy nose), these usually come in liquid or pill form. Decongestants should only be used for a short time, usually less than 10 days. The active ingredient in decongestants is either phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine. It works by narrowing blood vessels in your nose. That way, any swollen tissues in your nose that are causing you to feel pain or stuffed up are able to shrink and ease your breathing.
- Immunotherapy: Also known as allergy shots, these regular injections over a period of 3-5 years can help stop or reduce allergy attacks. These shots contain a small amount of the allergen that triggers your reactions. These tend to work well for common allergies like pet dander, pollen, or dust. This is a great option for those who have allergy symptoms lasting longer than 3 months a year and who have tried other medicines with no relief.
Just like most other medications, there are possible side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth or eyes, blurred vision, low blood pressure, headache, and rapid heart rate. The FDA also warns about serious problems with high doses of common over-the-counter allergy medicines like Benadryl, which can lead to heart problems, seizures, coma, or even death.

Conclusion

Allergy season always seems to surprise me. It comes up out of nowhere and I think part of that is because the snow has started to melt, the weather starts to warm up, and the sun is up for longer, so my mood has been naturally boosted. When allergies hit me, I’m caught off guard. EVERY. YEAR.

I’ve naturally implemented a few of the tips I’ve mentioned above without having to do too much research, such as taking daily showers/baths, having an antihistamine available (my choice is Flonase because it doesn’t make me drowsy and works without fail, every time), and I avoid having pets in my space (even though I’d love to have a cat or dog).

I do realize that these are not easy to implement all the time, especially if you’ve had a dog all your life, or if you work outdoors, but I hope that some of the tips in this article can help you feel more comfortable when you battle the beautiful fresh Spring air. If you have any other tips or tricks you think our readers would find interesting, let us know in the comments below!

Resources:
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8622-allergic-rhinitis-hay-fever
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/allergies-and-the-immune-system
- https://doctors-hospital.net/blog/entry/8-ways-you-re-making-your-seasonal-allergies-worse#:~:text=The%20main%20culprits%20triggering%20this,symptoms%20to%20linger%20for%20months.
- https://www.aafa.org/control-indoor-allergens/
April 8, 2022