Nlightenu Wellness and Nutrition

Nlightenu Wellness and Nutrition now takes appointments on their Page.

Layman's Guide to COVID-19

Hay fever… A Melbourne Dilemma!!

Hay fever affects children and adults in the spring and summer months due to the blooming of plants. This causes sneezing and itchy eyes made worst on hot, dry, and windy days. Melbourne is one of the hay fever capitals of the world.
Associate professor Ed Newbigin, a plant biologist from the University of Melbourne and coordinator of the Melbourne Pollen Count, says that grass pollen is the primary cause of hay fever and not Tree pollen as most people think.

Gut Connection?
Studies show that there is a connection between Gut health and allergies. Our good bacteria can control the rate that our immune cells becomes aggressive towards foreign objects like pollen. When Antigen presenting cells bring pollen fragments, good bacteria helps bring a balance between aggressive and non-aggressive immune cells. Improving the diversity of your gut microbiome could improve symptoms.

Vitamins and antioxidants
Hay fever season is like pollen hunting season for our immune cells which means lots of inflammation. Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine, and it can also help to support our immune system too. Vitamin C rich foods include berries, kiwi, oranges, peppers, blackcurrants.
Since Mast Cells produce histamine Quercetin is useful because it slows down the breakdown of the mast cell. This polyphenol compound is found in onions, garlic, peppers, broccoli, apples, berries, and beans, so it is worth packing these into your diet.

Prevention better than cure
Preparing yourself 4-6 weeks before hay fever season is the best bet. Assessing the function of your gut, doing a thorough dietary analysis, and improving your general health can make your next hay fever season far more bearable.