Probiotics and Hayfever

Probiotics and Hay Fever

If you are one of the more than 35.9 million hay fever (allergic rhinitis) sufferers in

the United States, you know that the runny nose, sneezing, congestion and sinus

pressure do not end with winter (1). These symptoms may be just beginning in the

spring and summer months. Fortunately, a variety of natural products help deal with

allergic reactions to a variety of airborne substances. In addition to the great seasonal

allergy remedies available, a new pilot study might have you reaching for one of your

favorite winter products; probiotics.

During a hay fever attack, the immune system reacts upon exposure to certain

airborne substances that it thinks are harmful. Pollens, fungal spores, dust mites and

dander are all common culprits. In the body’s initial exposure to these substances, the

immune system produces specific antibodies to fight them. In subsequent exposures,

these antibodies will recognize the substances and signal immune cells to release

histamine and other chemicals that help deal with the symptoms associated with hay

fever.

For the first time ever, scientists from the Institute of Food Research reported

that a specific strain of probiotic may help reduce hay fever symptoms in humans (2). In

a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 10 hay fever sufferers were given a milk drink

with added Lactobacillus casei (L. casei); while 10 others were given a milk drink without

the added probiotic as a placebo for a five-month period. The researchers collected

blood samples before, at the peak, and at the end of grass pollen season to determine

levels of the plasma antibodies and cytokines specific to grass pollens. Levels of both

were significantly decreased for the group that took the probiotic milk drink compared to

those who did not.

These results suggest that supplementation of L. casei and possibly

other probiotic strains may reduce the symptoms of hay fever.

Because the effects of probiotics on hay fever constitutes a new area of research,

it may work best to consume a broad range of probiotics for the time-being. These

microorganisms perform essential functions in the body like crowding out unfriendly

microorganisms, altering pH in the colon, neutralizing free radicals, and helping with a

variety of gastrointestinal issues.

It is important to select probiotics that are

manufactured in capsules with a special coating that ensures the bacteria will survive the

rigors of digestion and be able to colonize. Either Bifidophilus (stock #4080-4 ) or Probiotic 11 (stock # 1510-1) would be a good choice.

In addition to probiotics, supplements commonly recommended for hay fever and

seasonal allergies include combinations of stinging nettle, quercetin, bromelain and

immature orange peel. (Hista-Block stock #776-1) These ingredients act by providing antioxidant strength to

maintain stable mast cells and support the body’s efforts to maintain normal mucous

membranes and keep nasal passages clear.

Another valuable combination to provide

immune system support during seasonal changes includes andographis with other

immune-supporting herbs such as bitter orange fruit, thyme, oregano and eleuthero root. (Seasonal Defense stock # 806-6)

Works Cited

1. Natahn, R.A., Meltzer, E.O., Selner, J.C., Storms, W. "Prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis

in the United States." Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (1997) 99:S808-14.

2. Ivory K, Chambers SJ, Pin C, Prieto E, Arqués JL, Nicoletti C. “Oral delivery of

Lactobacillus casei Shirota modifies allergen-induced immune responses in allergic

rhinitis.” Clin Exp Allergy. 2008 May 28. [Epub ahead of print]

Submitted by:

-Jeanette Barcus

Natural Health Consultant, Iridologist

Herbs ‘n’ Whey -Natural Help for Natural Health

“Because the Body is Designed to Heal Naturally”

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