As we welcome spring with open arms, we make way for longer days filled with glorious sunshine, budding flowers and blooming trees. However, for many Australians these are the very elements that make venturing outside to enjoy the change of season an unpleasant event. For allergy sufferers spring means, sniffling, sneezing and watery eyes. According to AIHW, 1 in 5 Australians suffer from respiratory allergies like seasonal allergic rhinitis, better known as hay fever. Thankfully, there is a wonderful variety of natural ingredients available to help reduce allergy related symptoms. And without a doubt, Vitamin C is our top allergy fighting tool this hay fever season and we are here to give you the low down as to why its so awesome.

What are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies occur when there is overreaction of the immune system to an allergen such as a pollen – a substance released by every tree, flower and weed. When our bodies come in contact with something we are allergic to, our immune system releases a chemical called histamine into the bloodstream which prompts an onslaught of allergy symptoms. The classic seasonal allergy symptoms include sneezing, coughing, congestion, itchy eyes and runny nose.

Treatment options

For many years the go-to management for hay fever has been antihistamines. Whilst these options are still very effective for soothing allergy symptoms, many people experience a host of side effects. These medicines work by blocking the natural release of histamine, which prevents these chemicals from carrying out their various functions in the body. This disruption to histamine’s function can result in symptoms such as drowsiness, dry mouth, restlessness and dizziness.

Why Vitamin C is the Allergy Fighting Super Star

We all know vitamin C as the immune-boosting nutrient found in citrus fruits. However, many people are unaware that it is also the most useful anti-allergy vitamin available. This natural anti-histamine vitamin works by preventing the formation of histamine, while the typical over-the-counter antihistamine medications work by interfering with the histamine after it is produced. This in turn helps to reduce allergy related symptoms. Also, the immune-enhancing effects of Vitamin C help to prevent infection as well as shortening the duration of an illness.

How much do I need?

My first recommendation is to increase the vitamin C rich foods in your diet by eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. However, to get the therapeutic dose required you would have to eat a huge amount. This is where supplementation can help. Depending on the severity of your allergies, a dose between 500 to 5000 mg distributed throughout the day may be required. I also recommend taking bioflavonoids alongside vitamin C as it can help enhance the action of this vitamin resulting in a greater reduction of allergy symptoms. My top picks for Vitamin C are as followed:

Herbs of Gold Vitamin C 1000 + zinc and bioflavonoids

This potent formula will provide any allergy sufferer with a boost of antioxidants they need. An immune boosting blend of Vitamin C, zinc and bioflavonoids that can have shown to reduce the severity of allergy symptoms. Enriched with bioflavonoids to enhance the bioavailability of Vitamin C and its actions.

Fusion Health Vitamin C advanced

A high dose of Vitamin C and zinc to support your immune system. It has an extra boost of elderflower, which has shown to relieve hay fever symptoms. Plus, this formula has been specially buffered to be gentler on the stomach than ascorbic acid on its own.

Melrose Essential C plus Immune

A wonderful blend of immune boosting and allergy relieving ingredients including vitamin c, olive leaf extract, vitamin D and yeast containing beta-glucan. They source their vitamin C from one of nature’s highest sources of vitamin C, the native Australian Kakadu Plum. A sweet natural honey lemon flavour, simply add to your morning water or favourite juice.