⚡ Interactive Clinical Tool
TDEE Calculator
Calculate the number of calories needed per day to lose, gain or maintain weight
Can good fats help with allergies?
We're talking about polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). While this may sound like a big word, there are two main types: omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Both are essential for the healthy functioning of our bodies. Researchers are now paying special attention to how these omega-3 fatty acids affect allergies in young children.So, what foods contain omega-3?
Some foods rich in omega-3 are:- Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines (these fish also get their omega-3s from things like algae they eat).
- Flaxseeds
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
Grapes and the Mediterranean Diet
You may have heard of the "Mediterranean-style diet." It's based on a diet that's high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, and fish. A large study of children on the Greek island of Crete found that children who ate a Mediterranean diet were less likely to develop allergies like hay fever. In particular, researchers have found that the antioxidants found in grapes grown in the region may help.There's another side to this. That's the story of the microbes in our gut . Think about it, there are good bacteria in our gut as well as bad bacteria. The balance of these two ( the gut microbiome ) is very important for our health."Diets high in highly processed foods can disrupt the balance of microbes in the gut, which can lead to an increase in allergy symptoms," says Jeffrey Deman, MD, of the Alaska Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Center. "However, the Mediterranean diet increases the number of good bacteria in the gut. This may be one reason why allergies are less common in those countries."
✨ Hearing health
Verified Partner
Medical grade state-of-the-art hearing aids
Advanced hearing aids designed for clear hearing and noise control in the ear.
Check Availability →Is honey really good for allergies?
Many people believe that drinking honey will help reduce allergies. But what is the real story? An organization affiliated with the National Institutes of Health in the United States clearly states that "there is no scientific evidence that honey provides relief from seasonal allergies." There has not been much research on this. Although two small studies have shown that it may provide some relief, it is not possible to draw a firm conclusion from those studies. However, some doctors say that some of their patients have found relief after using local honey in the area where they live. The idea behind this is that when you eat honey made by bees and collect the same pollen that causes you allergies, your body gradually gets used to that pollen. It is like immunotherapy. It is not yet known whether this is scientifically proven or not. If you use honey, only take a small amount . Because it is also a type of sugar, it is better to limit it.Very important: Never give honey to babies under one year old. It can cause a dangerous condition called botulism.To easily remember what we've talked about, look at this table.
| Food type | Possible impact on allergies | Important points |
|---|---|---|
| Foods rich in omega-3 | It can reduce inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of allergies. | Fish like salmon and tuna, flaxseeds, walnuts. |
| Grapes (especially as part of the Mediterranean diet) | Its antioxidant properties may reduce allergies such as hay fever. | Shows the importance of a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits. |
| Honey | It has not been scientifically proven. Some people may feel relief, but it is not certain. | Avoid giving it to babies under one year of age completely. Only give a small amount. |
💡 Take-Home Message
- Diet alone cannot completely cure allergies, but certain foods can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Foods rich in Omega-3, such as fish and flaxseed, may reduce inflammation in the body and provide relief from allergies.
- A diet rich in vegetables and fruits, such as the Mediterranean diet , is beneficial for gut health and may also contribute to reducing allergies.
- There is no solid scientific evidence that honey reduces allergies. Avoid giving honey to babies under one year of age altogether.
- Always talk to your doctor about your allergy status or before making any dietary changes.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your question or experience below.