Top 5 Foods to Overcome Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
As September begins, the season of large temperature fluctuations between morning and evening arrives. This period is especially challenging for those suffering from allergic rhinitis. The rapid temperature changes and dry air can exacerbate rhinitis symptoms. Rhinitis is accompanied by various discomforts such as runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing, and in severe cases, it can significantly impact daily life. Therefore, it is crucial to understand which foods to consume to boost your immune system and alleviate rhinitis symptoms during this time. In this article, we introduce five foods to help you overcome seasonal allergic rhinitis and greet a healthy autumn.
Jack Beans
Jack beans have long been known as an effective food for alleviating rhinitis symptoms. These beans are rich in vitamins A and C, which help strengthen the immune system, and their anti-inflammatory effects are excellent for relieving respiratory symptoms. In particular, the saponins and flavonoids in jack beans play a crucial role in reducing rhinitis symptoms. These beans are known to help not only with rhinitis but also with various respiratory conditions such as cough, asthma, and sinusitis. Fresh jack beans can be soaked in water and added to rice, made into fermented soybean paste or cheonggukjang with soybeans, or roasted and boiled into tea. Recently, various products have been developed to make it easier to consume jack beans, making daily use for rhinitis prevention and management more accessible. You can easily enjoy the health benefits by consuming jack bean tea, teabags, or powder.
Black Beans
Black beans are rich in vitamin B, essential amino acids, and linoleic acid, making them crucial for strengthening the immune system and protecting respiratory health. The saponins in black beans have excellent anticancer effects and help restore vitality, which is highly beneficial for recovering a body fatigued from seasonal rhinitis. However, excessive intake of saponins may affect thyroid function, so it is advisable to consume them with iodine-rich seaweed. Black beans can be added to rice, used in various dishes like soybean noodles and soybean paste, and their rich flavor and nutrition make them a great addition to meals. Additionally, black bean soy milk or soybean water is a convenient way to consume them, making it easy to maintain your health in a busy lifestyle. Try incorporating black beans into your daily diet in various ways to strengthen your immune system.
Ginger
Ginger has been used as an important medicinal ingredient for health across both Eastern and Western cultures for centuries. Ginger contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that enhance the immune system and suppress inflammation. Particularly, the 'gingerol' in ginger is very effective in alleviating rhinitis symptoms and helps reduce throat inflammation and fever caused by seasonal colds. Drinking a cup of warm ginger tea in the morning is a great way to start the day healthily. Ginger tea keeps the body warm, preventing stiffness caused by cold weather, and contributes significantly to alleviating rhinitis symptoms. Ginger is also commonly used as a spice in cooking, and brewing fresh ginger into tea maximizes its effects. Explore various ways to consume ginger to prevent seasonal rhinitis and maintain your health.
Red Ginseng
Red ginseng is a representative food effective in boosting the immune system and is particularly useful in alleviating allergic symptoms such as rhinitis. Red ginseng regulates immune responses by controlling the activity of macrophages and suppresses the secretion of reactive oxygen species and tumor necrosis factors, which cause inflammation. Red ginseng helps activate immune cells and reduce inflammation, providing great relief for seasonal rhinitis symptoms. One study reported significant improvement in rhinitis symptoms when allergic rhinitis patients consistently consumed red ginseng. Red ginseng can be consumed in various forms, and it is especially beneficial to consistently drink red ginseng tea or extract during the seasonal transition. Additionally, many convenient products like red ginseng capsules and red ginseng jelly are available, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Actively use red ginseng in your seasonal health care to strengthen your body's ability to fight rhinitis.
Onions
Onions are an excellent food for relieving rhinitis, containing a powerful antihistamine called 'quercetin.' Quercetin suppresses allergic reactions and provides antiviral effects, making it very beneficial for people with seasonal rhinitis. Onions can be eaten raw or added to various dishes, and they can also be consumed as a health drink made from onion juice. However, be cautious when consuming onion juice alongside rhinitis medications, as it may reduce the effectiveness of the drugs. Besides alleviating rhinitis symptoms, onions are beneficial for cardiovascular health, helping lower blood pressure and expand blood vessels. Including onions in your regular diet can contribute not only to rhinitis relief but also to overall health improvement. Use onions frequently in your cooking to maximize their benefits.
Additional Tips: Managing Seasonal Rhinitis
To effectively manage rhinitis, it is essential to improve lifestyle habits in addition to food intake. During seasonal transitions, regularly ventilate your indoor spaces to maintain air quality, and use a humidifier to keep the air moist. Dry air can worsen rhinitis symptoms, so maintaining appropriate indoor humidity is crucial. Additionally, regular exercise and sufficient sleep are necessary to boost the immune system. Exercise increases body temperature and improves blood circulation, which helps activate immune functions. After going outside, be sure to clean your hands and face to remove allergens, and if rhinitis symptoms worsen, consult a specialist for appropriate treatment. Furthermore, keeping your home clean to reduce allergens like dust and mites is important. By following these steps, you can effectively manage seasonal rhinitis and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
