Fit Families: All-Natural Allergy Relief

As Mother Nature transforms winter into spring, flowers bloom and rivers run. For many of us, this transition also brings watery eyes and runny noses. Not fun—for kids or grown-ups. But help may be as close as your kitchen cabinet.

Ayurveda (yoga’s sister science) teaches us that allergies can be linked to poor digestion. Here are three simple ways to cultivate strong digestion and calm allergies:

1. Serve the largest meal between 10am – 2pm. This is when digestion is strongest. Also avoid eating heavy meals and snacks late at night.

2. Serve food and beverages warm. Meals that are room temperature or warmer are easier to digest.

3. Eat real foods that are in season. Whole foods are more easily digested than highly processed foods. Nature offers us what we need to stay in balance, so eat what you find in abundance at your local farmers’ market: lettuce, corn, asparagus, berries, honey, and so much more.

Herbs & Honey Ease Allergies Too

Consuming local honey has become a popular way to help the body cope with allergens. It is also a yummy way to deliver herbal remedies to your kids, who might otherwise resist.

Ginger improves digestion and helps eliminate mucous. Add this delicious root to warm water with honey twice a day.

Famous for its antibiotic qualities, turmeric is a wonder herb which supports the respiratory and digestive systems. It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory. Try 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric with honey as often as needed.

Other herbs and spices that support digestion include: coriander, fenugreek, fennel, cumin, black mustard seed, and hing. Add them to your cooking this spring.