by Terrie Schultz

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: May 29, 2009

While colorful spring flowers and verdant grasses blowing in the breeze are a delight to behold, they are all too often accompanied by an abundance of pollen and other allergens that can cause seasonal allergies.

An allergic reaction is triggered when an allergen such as a grain of pollen enters the body and comes into contact with a receptor on a mast cell, located in the mucosal lining of the nose and throat. The mast cell releases the chemical histamine, which sets into motion a chain reaction whose goal is to rid the body of the intruder. Unfortunately for the allergy sufferer, this reaction causes watery, itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing and other uncomfortable allergy symptoms.

Allopathic treatment for allergies usually involves antihistamines, which are drugs that block the effects of histamine. However, antihistamines often cause unwanted side effects including drowsiness, dry mouth and nasal passages, headaches, constipation, dizziness and heart palpitations.

There are many effective natural remedies available to relieve or prevent allergy symptoms without resorting to expensive prescription drugs or over-the-counter products that may cause unpleasant or dangerous side effects.

Some simple lifestyle changes can help to lessen symptoms of seasonal allergies. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outdoors when pollen counts are high, wear a paper dust mask. Keep doors and windows closed, and don't use a window fan, which draws allergens inside.

A change in diet can work wonders to diminish the severity of allergy symptoms. During allergy season, avoid any foods that cause sensitivity. Eliminating dairy products can decrease the production of mucus. Also steer clear of sunflower seeds, banana, melon, cucumber, and herbal supplements with chamomile or echinacea, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as grass-fed meat, flaxseed oil, walnuts, and cold-water fish, can decrease the body's production of inflammatory chemicals. Fish oil capsules are a convenient source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Spicy foods such as cayenne, ginger, garlic, horseradish or hot mustard are natural decongestants that can help clear nasal passages. A lack of carotenoids in the diet can contribute to inflammation in the airways. Therefore, eating foods rich in carotenoids, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, kale, spinach and apricots is recommended for allergy sufferers. Arachidonic acid, an essential

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