Seasonal Allergy Prevention. Treating the Adrenals
Allergies (seasonal or other) are a result of an over-stimulated immune system. When exposed to an allergen, we tax our immune system, causing inflammation and manifesting as allergy symptoms. To control allergies we can either treat the symptoms or the cause. Antihistamines, for example, treat the symptoms, tamping down the production of the inflammatory by-product histamine. But the inflammation persists.
To treat the cause and reduce inflammation we support the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands produce a lot of different kinds of hormones, and cortisol is the most important with respect to inflammation. Cortisol is our natural anti-inflammatory, and the adrenals produce a lot of it, especially in times of stress. Over long periods of stress, lack of sleep, lack of proper nutrition, too much caffeine consumption and many other stressors our adrenals get “tired” and produce less cortisol. This decreased cortisol can lead to more inflammation and an increased allergenic response.
Treating the Adrenal Glands
There are a plethora of things you can do to help strengthen or tonify your adrenal glands. A couple of simple things you can do:
- Sleep: Getting quality sleep allows for your glands to recover.
- Less Caffeine: Caffeine pushes the adrenal gland to over-production and depletion
- Decrease stress levels: the less stress, the less work the adrenals have to do.
Other adjunctives:
- B Vitamins
- Essential Fatty Acids i.e. fish oils
- Glandular supplements
- Herbs: Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Licorice, Ginseng, Eleuthrococcus
Consult your physician
We would be happy to help answer your questions and formulate a custom plan right for you on allergies, adrenal support or other areas to help optimize your life.
Dr Eric Semsak
-Your guide to optimal health
Featured Supplements
Basic B Complex by Thorne
EPA – DHA 720 by Metagenics
Adrenal Support by Vital Nutrients
Phytisone by Thorne