Spring has finally arrived!
But while many of us are excited to enjoy the warmer weather and longer days, others are dreading the arrival of seasonal allergies.
If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from sneezing, congestion, and other uncomfortable symptoms during hay fever season, we have some tips to help you manage your symptoms naturally.
Because while it’s many peoples first instinct to reach for hay fever tablets, it’s possible to naturally reduce the impact these allergies have on your daily life through natural methods, by improving our immune system.
In this blog, we will explore the connection between chiropractic care and respiratory issues, and how chiropractic adjustments can benefit those with asthma and allergies.
Chiropractic care offers a natural and holistic approach to healthcare that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Its ability to improve symptoms of asthma and allergies makes it a compelling choice for those seeking alternative treatments.
It’s important to know that the nervous system controls every function in the body, including the respiratory system.
When the spine is not in its proper alignment, it can disrupt the nervous system’s ability to communicate with the lungs, causing respiratory issues.
Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to correct misalignments and promote optimal nervous system function.
Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for asthma and allergies.
Did you know that a study conducted by the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics revealed that chiropractic care can drastically alleviate symptoms of asthma?
And that’s not all!
Another study published in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research found that patients who underwent chiropractic care saw a remarkable reduction in allergy symptoms.
Chiropractic care can also help to boost the immune system. A properly functioning immune system can help to reduce inflammation, which is a common symptom of both asthma and allergies.
Additionally, chiropractic care can help to reduce stress, which can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments can help to relieve tension in the muscles and promote relaxation, leading to a decrease in stress levels.
Here are my 4 top tips for battling allergies this year:
#1. Watch what you eat
The way we eat significantly affects how well our immune system works.
Following a diet that reduces inflammation and includes plenty of whole, nutrient-packed foods such as fruits, veggies, and lean proteins can help keep our immune system strong, giving us sustained energy throughout the day without depending on too much caffeine.
#2. Consider natural remedies
There are so many great natural ways to tackle allergy season without having to rely on tablets.
You could try getting a pollen filter for your car, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, and making sure to change or wash your clothes after being outside.
There are also natural ways to help cleanse your system, like steam inhalation and saline nasal sprays.
Plus, many people swear by the benefits of eating local honey for reducing hayfever symptoms.
(And let’s be honest, it tastes fantastic too!)
#3. Get regular exercise
Remember to keep moving to help boost your immune system and reduce stress.
It can make a big difference in how your body handles allergies and the impact they have on your day-to-day life.
And don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially when you’re out in the sun!
#4. Get regular Chiropractic adjustments
Believe it or not, Chiropractic adjustments aren’t just for pain relief!
In fact, getting adjusted regularly is a powerful way to support and boosting your immune system and help you fight off illnesses, while also reducing stress levels and lessen the impact of seasonal allergies.
(That’s on top of the many other benefits like improved sleep and energy levels!)
If you suffer from asthma or allergies, consider incorporating chiropractic care to improve your overall health and well-being.
References:
1. Alcantara J, Alcantara JD, Alcantara J. The chiropractic care of patients with asthma: a systematic review of the literature to inform clinical practice. Clin Chiropr. 2012;15(1):23-30.
2. Balon J, Aker PD, Crowther ER, et al. A comparison of active and simulated chiropractic manipulation as adjunctive treatment for childhood asthma. N Engl J Med. 1998;339(15):1013-1020.
3. Hawk C, Khorsan R, Lisi AJ, Ferrance RJ, Evans MW. Chiropractic care for non-musculoskeletal conditions: a systematic review with implications for whole systems research. J Altern Complement Med. 2007;13(5):491-512.
4. Pham, D.L. et al. (2023) Environmental allergen reduction in asthma management: An overview, Frontiers in allergy. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10587592/
5. Vahid, F. and Rahmani, D. (2021) Can an anti-inflammatory diet be effective in preventing or treating viral respiratory diseases? A systematic narrative review, Clinical nutrition ESPEN. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9587761/
