For most people, allergies might be a perennial phenomenon, be it dust or pet hair. Irritants will always exist in the environment. However, experts have suggested that improving your gut health can potentially improve immunity from allergies, as per an Independent report.
A study from 2021 found that 20-30% of India’s population suffers from allergic rhinitis or hay fever. It is commonly associated with triggers like pollen, dust, or pet hair, which might lead to a runny nose, inflammation, and headaches. Experts, however, attribute weak immunity to poor gut health.
Gut health and allergies: What’s the link?
The gut microbiome in the immune system of the human body is the defense mechanism against irritants. A new study, as per The Independent, found a cellular link between allergies and a healthy gut. “70-80 per cent of immune cells can be found within the gut which means that a healthy gut supports a functioning immune system,” explains Kristen Stavridis, a nutritionist at Biotiful.
“A diverse and balanced gut microbiome enables optimal immune function which helps your body to respond effectively to infection. A healthy immune system can detect the difference between harmless pollen particles and potential threats and reduce the intensity of allergic reaction,” she added.
Biologically speaking, the majority of the immune cells are concentrate in a part of the gut called gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). These cells play the role of processing external triggers like pollen and help the human body to generate the right immune response.
What are the signs of gut imbalance?
A lack of healthy gut biome, such as Akkermansia muciniphila and other butyrate-producing bacteria like Clostridium butyricum, leads to a weakened gut. You are likely to face issues like bloating, diarrhea and even skin problems like acne. Other effects may include unexplained fatigue and loss of sleep, as per WHO.
How to improve gut health?
Most experts suggest an improved diet that includes probiotics and prebiotics. They act as a natural gut-health supplement. However, it is one of many ways to improve your gut health since changing your diet will not automatically improve immunity. A balanced level of exercise, rest and recovery is also an essential part of the progress.
Balancing your gut might be your one-way ticket to beating the “seasonal” runny nose and itchy skin. Other foods to include in your diet can be fermented salads like kimchi and millennials’ favourite drink Kombucha with an added dose of liver-friendly meals.
Apart from diet, one can also improve their lifestyle by reducing stress, maintaining proper hygiene and taking care of your mental health. Understand your irritants and take an appropriate action in consultation with your physicians.