Spring Allergies and the Potential Role of Gut Health
Elixr’s in-house nutritionist Mogestri Pather will be hosting a complimentary seminar on Immunity, allergies, and detoxification as part of our Spring Reset Weekend on Saturday 23 August, 12-1pm – BOOK NOW
With the arrival of spring comes an increase in symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue commonly associated with seasonal allergies. For many people, these allergic reactions are more than a mere inconvenience; they may signal underlying imbalances within the body. Recent attention has focused on the potential for managing these symptoms not only through conventional treatments like nasal sprays and antihistamines, but also by adopting a healthy gut microbiome.
The Gut-Lung-Immune Connection
The gut participates in digestion and also communicates with the immune system and respiratory tract. This relationship, called the gut-lung axis, influences how the body responds to allergens such as pollen and dust.
When your gut is thriving:
- Immune system remains calm and balanced
- Inflammation is controlled
- Histamine is broken down efficiently
- Respiratory tissues gain protection
When your gut is struggling:
- Immune cells can overreact to harmless triggers
- Histamine accumulates
- Respiratory and sinus inflammation increases
- Congestion and fatigue worsen
Springtime Stressors to Your Microbiome
Allergy season overlaps with common microbiome stressors:
- Dietary changes — Lower intake of dietary fibre and increased consumption of processed foods.
- Antibiotic and medication use — May diminish beneficial microbial populations.
- Psychological stress — Can compromise gut barrier function and reduce microbial diversity.
- Environmental factors — Elevated exposure to pollen and mould may challenge immune system tolerance.
Gut-Centric Strategies for Allergy Relief
Here’s how to help your gut help your sinuses:
Nourish the Microbiome
- High-fibre foods: leafy greens, oats, chia, legumes
- Fermented foods: yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut
- Prebiotics: garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus
Mind Histamine Balance
- Reduce high-histamine foods during peak allergy season (aged cheeses, wine, smoked meats).
- Add quercetin-rich foods (apples, broccoli, onions) — a natural mast cell stabilizer.
- Consider DAO enzyme support if histamine clearance is impaired.
Strategic Supplementation
- Probiotics: Practitioner recommended strain-specific probiotics for immune modulation.
- Vitamin C & D: calm inflammation and support mucosal health.
- Omega-3s: reduce inflammatory cascades triggered by allergens.
A Fresh Perspective on Spring
Rather than anticipating seasonal discomfort, consider designating spring as a period for microbiome renewal. Proactively supporting gut health during this time may alleviate the severity of allergy symptoms, bolster resilience, and improve overall well-being through natural, internal processes.
Seeking a more personalised approach?
If you are experiencing spring allergies and are interested in understanding how your gut health, genetics, and lifestyle may be contributing factors, I am available to assist.
As a clinical nutritionist, I employ advanced approaches such as DNA analysis, gut microbiome assessment, and functional testing in order to develop strategies tailored to your individual biology. This process may involve optimising dietary choices, reviewing supplement protocols, or supporting immune function to help achieve sustained relief and improved well-being.
To arrange a personalised consultation, please contact me to begin a comprehensive approach to addressing your health concerns this season.
Happy Spring!
May this season bring you fresh air, nourishing food, and inner calm. Wishing you fewer allergies, more sunshine, and a reminder that healing starts within.
Wishing you a pleasant spring season.
Make a sustainable difference in your life! Book a consultation with our in-house nutritionist, Mogestri Pather at nutrition@elixr.com.au.
Claim your 5-day pass and come along to a weekend packed with classes and workshops, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August.
