I suffer with hay fever throughout the summer months; is there anything I can do to prevent or reduce the symptoms now, rather than leaving it until the worst summer months?

Hay fever can make people's lives a misery throughout the summer months. To successfully resolve or reduce hay-fever symptoms a long-term health programme needs to be adopted in advance of the summer months. If this is done, the good news is that there are a number of substances that can reduce allergic reactions and make the summer months much more enjoyable.

After consulting your medical doctor, it is better to visit a naturopath or herbalist to receive a thorough health assessment. This is because each individual is different, requiring a tailor made health programme that will promote optimum health and well being. There are, however, some basics that most people will find useful in the fight against hay-fever.

Vitamin C is the most important anti-allergy vitamin. It is a powerful promoter of a strong immune system. It immediately calms down allergic reactions and is anti-inflammatory. Since vitamin C is in and out of the body within six hours, it is best to take a supplement that is divided into two doses. You can also increase vitamin C intake by eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Omega-3 fish oils are one of nature's best natural anti-inflammatory nutrients. Although you can, and should, obtain these from eating un-fried, un-breaded fish, I also recommend you take a supplement omega-3 fish oil every day. You have to be careful of the dosage of essential fatty acids and vitamin A you are taking.

Quercetin is another bioflavonoid and is a potent antioxidant that promotes a healthy inflammatory response. Quercetin regulates histamine production. The best food sources of quercetin are red onions, apples and berries. Supplementation is required, however, for people with allergies.

Nettle tea is fantastic for strengthening the upper respiratory tract and building up the body's resources. It is full of essential vitamins and minerals and has long been one of any herbalist's favourite healing herbs.

Glutamine is an essential part of any regime designed to quickly restore healthy mucous membranes and reduce allergic potential. It is also a powerful nutrient for supporting proper immune function and protecting the liver.

Bromelain is a collection of proteolytic (literally meaning protein breakdown) enzymes found in pineapple stems. Bromelain has considerable anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling properties and can significantly improve nasal drainage and swelling.

Avoid mucus-forming, pro-inflammatory foods, such as dairy and meat, and get tested for food allergies. Drink plenty of water and exercise regularly. This will help to build up a strong and healthy immune system, which is vital in reducing hay-fever symptoms.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. If you would like a question covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway on 091-568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell on 091-777700.

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