Seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, can significantly impact many people's lives. Itchy eyes, sneezing, a runny nose and fatigue are among the most common symptoms, especially in spring and summer. While antihistamines and nasal sprays are often the first choice, there is a natural alternative that is gaining more and more attention: probiotics. In this blog post, we'll look at how probiotics can help relieve seasonal allergies, what the science behind it is and how you can incorporate probiotics into your routine.
What are seasonal allergies and why do they occur?
Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, are triggered by allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses or herbs. In allergy sufferers, the immune system reacts oversensitively to these substances and releases histamine and other messenger substances that cause the typical allergy symptoms.
The cause of this overreaction is often an unbalanced immune system. Studies suggest that the intestinal microbiome - the totality of microorganisms in the intestine - plays a key role in regulating the immune system. A disturbed microbiome can intensify inflammatory reactions and thus worsen allergies.
How can probiotics help with allergies?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote a healthy balance in the gut. They can help relieve allergies in several ways:
-
modulation of the immune system
Probiotics influence the immune response by promoting anti-inflammatory cytokines and regulating the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE), which plays a central role in allergies. -
improving the intestinal barrier
A healthy intestinal barrier prevents allergens from entering the bloodstream, thereby alleviating the allergic reaction. -
reduction of inflammation
Certain probiotics can inhibit inflammatory messengers that play a role in allergy symptoms such as a stuffy nose or irritated mucous membranes. -
Promoting a balanced microbiome
A diversified and healthy microbiome supports overall immune function and can reduce sensitivity to allergens.
Scientific findings: What do the studies say?
relief of hay fever symptoms
A 2020 clinical study examined the effects of Lactobacillus paracasei on patients with allergic rhinitis. The results showed that participants who took this probiotic had fewer sneezing attacks and less nasal congestion than the control group.
Probiotics and Pollen Allergies
A 2019 meta-analysis that analyzed several studies on probiotics and pollen allergies found that probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum can improve the quality of life of allergy sufferers by reducing the severity of symptoms.
Prevention of allergic reactions in children
A long-term study showed that giving probiotics to children in the first years of life can significantly reduce the risk of developing allergies. This underlines the preventive effect of probiotics on the immune system.
Hay fever, neurodermatitis, house dust and food allergies: Overview studies on probiotics and allergies show that the two probiotic strains Lactobacillus paracasei LP-33 and GMNL-133 in particular help with hay fever, neurodermatitis, house dust and also food allergies.
How can probiotics be integrated into everyday life?
- dietary supplements
Probiotics are available in capsule form, as a powder or in probiotic drinks. Be sure to choose products with the strains mentioned above.
- Probiotic foods
Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and fermented drinks like kombucha contain natural probiotics that can strengthen the microbiome.
- Combine prebiotics
Prebiotics, the “food” for probiotics, promote the growth of healthy bacteria. Prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions and oatmeal complement the effects of probiotics.
What should you pay attention to?
- Duration of use is crucial : Regular intake of probiotics over several weeks is necessary to achieve an effect.
- Clinically tested : Use clinically tested products whenever possible, as this is the only way to ensure that they really help with allergies.
- Expert advice : If you want to try probiotics for allergies, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are already taking medication.
- Not a substitute : Probiotics can relieve allergy symptoms, but should be seen as a supplement and not a replacement for conventional allergy treatments.
Conclusion
Probiotics offer a natural and promising way to relieve seasonal allergies. By supporting the gut microbiome and modulating the immune system, they can reduce allergy symptoms and improve quality of life. If you suffer from hay fever or other seasonal allergies, incorporating probiotics into your routine could make a positive difference. Give it a try and experience the natural power of a healthy microbiome!
