The ABCs: Allergies, Birds, Bees And Pollen

3. Special Care-Bedding

However odd it sounds, many individuals are allergic to feathers in many duvets, and pillows. As such, investing in organic bedding, and a good -quality and allergy-free mattress cover  and pillows, and washing bedding at least once a week in the hottest temperatures allowed can prevent dust mites and reduce allergens. Cotton and latex pillows, are resistant to mold and dust mites, they are also hypoallergenic and studies have indicate they can offer more support and comfort for your back and neck. It would also be a good idea to think twice before getting that pet bird.

4. Conduct Annual House Check for Mold and Pollen:

Since mold is such a major contributor of seasonal allergies, it is a good idea to get a professional to conduct a check at least once per year. Investing in an air purification system especially one with an UV & negative ion filter will also help to purify the air. An even  less expensive way to prevent and reduce mold is to invest in high-quality dehumidifiers and strategically place them in home and office corners.

5.Never Bring The Outside Inside Your Home

It is a good idea for those who suffer with allergies to shower as soon as they get  back inside, since pollen and other environmental pollutants could  'infect' pillows and other bedding , as well as furniture particularly fabric sofas.

6. Rethink and Modify Get-A-Ways

Since spring brings more than lilies-stay away from the countrysides. Instead, try spending as much time as possible in places where pollen levels are lower. Research indicates that  pollen levels  tend to be significantly lower where there are open bodies of water, such as beaches and lakes. Speaking of  which....

7. Hydrate, Hydrate and Yes..Hydrate

This is key since dehydration activates and increases histamine production, drinking enough clean, filtered water  will  maintain hydration, and will help to reduce allergy symptoms.

8. Flush and Detox

Drinking salt water is very common in many detoxification processes. Since  research suggests that sea-salt  contain anti-inflammatory properties: Adding a pinch to your drinking water will help flush toxins from the body.

9.  Allergy-Proof Your Office

Since most of us spend 8-10 hours working outside the home, placing HEPA filters, de-humidifiers and salt lamps in corners in office spaces helps to reduce symptoms.

10. Extra Outdoor Protection

Spring and summer spell gardens, and upkeep. As such, while outside gardening and doing chores such as lawn-mowing, wearing a mask will help to keep allergy culprits at bay.

11. Simplify, Reduce and Replace

De-cluttering your home is always a great idea, and since carpets are perfect hiding places for allergens, replacing them with non-toxic cork, hardwood, or wool floors will help to reduce allergens in your home.

12. Keeping Tabs on Pollen

Research suggests that pollen levels are highest in the morning (5 a.m and 10 a.m.). Keeping this information in mind  when planning outside chores and try scheduling as much of your appointments in the evening hours will give you more control.  

Cheers to an allergy-free season!