One of the most common allergies is hay fever. In the United States, about 40 million people are affected with hay fever. In hay fever your immune system overreacts in response to usually harmless airborne particles. Commonly it shows the symptoms of sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion or runny nose, red and watery eyes, and postnasal drip.

Though it is called hay fever, it is neither caused by hay nor does it cause fever. Hay fever is a seasonal allergy that is commonly triggered when pollens are inhaled.

In general, foods are not usually linked to hay fever, but people suffering from certain types of seasonal allergies may get symptoms after consuming specific foods. Hence diet becomes an essential topic of concern for people with hay fever. Given below are some guidelines for hay fever diet.

Proper diet can help you to reduce the symptoms of hay fever. The allergic reactions to allergens are reduced by antihistamines. Antioxidants and Vitamin C are natural antihistamines.

Hence obtain these two nutrients in abundance by consuming a lot of fresh fruits. Consume colorful fruits and vegetables like apples, grapes, oranges, tomatoes, etc.

Garlic and onions promote white blood cells production and thus strengthen your immune system. Strong immune system is necessary for preventing and healing hay fever.

Hence add lots of onions and garlic to your meals. Include ginger in your diet and in food preparation. They are very potent decongestant and will help you to clear your nasal congestion. Drink herbal tea such as ginger tea, lemon tea, green tea, peppermint tea, etc.

Eat foods rich in zinc such as legumes, oysters, shrimp, whole grains, tofu, crab, and lean beef. Zinc helps your body to fight infection by producing antiviral and antibacterial effects in your body and boosting immunity.

Consume foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. They are associated with improved overall health and are also anti-inflammatory. Hence eat salmon, sardines, nuts, walnuts, mackerel, and seeds.

Consuming certain foods and beverages may provoke a flare-up in some people. Identify the foods and beverages that trigger hay fever symptoms in your body and eliminate such food items from your diet.

In general avoid milk and other dairy products, sugar, mushrooms, pickles, ketchup, salad dressings, fermented soy sauce, vinegar, processed meats and fish, hot dogs, smoked fish, breads made with excess yeasts, sunflower seeds and oil, etc.