7 Foods that Could Be Making Your Spring Allergies Worse

Spring is just around the corner, and anyone who has experienced seasonal allergies knows that the uptick of pollen in the air is a recipe for watery eyes, runny noses and other unpleasant symptoms.

Allergies are mysterious, but if you suffer from them you might be surprised to discover that it’s possible to help minimize symptoms and alleviate flare-ups by adjusting your diet. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, an estimated one-third of pollen allergy patients may be affected by oral-allergy syndrome (OAS). When someone has OAS, certain foods that contain traces of pollen trigger reactions in the body, such as itchiness in the mouth and throat.

If this phenomenon sounds familiar to you, or you just want to ensure you’re minimizing your risk of flare-ups as much as possible this season, here are some common foods that could actually be making your spring allergies worse. 

1 &2. PITTED AND TROPICAL FRUITS

Watch out for pitted fruits, such as apricots, apples, plums, cherries, tomatoes and peaches. Additionally, some tropical fruits—such as kiwis and pineapples—can exacerbate your spring allergies.

3. CERTAIN VEGGIES

Celery juice is at the height of its popularity right now, but you’re probably better off avoiding it if you have spring allergies. Additionally, you should leave carrots, zucchinis and bell peppers off of your plate.

4. FRESH HERBS

Avoid incorporating parsley or cilantro into your dishes.

5. CERTAIN LEGUMES

Peanuts and soybeans contain traces of birch tree pollen and can cause mouth itching in people who are allergic. Be aware that if you experience any irritation after consuming nuts or legumes, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommendsvisiting an allergist or immunologist, as that unpleasant itching could be a sign that you have a more serious food allergy.

6. CERTAIN NUTS

Just like peanuts and soybeans, almonds and hazelnuts—as well as their derivatives, like Nutella, hazelnut flavored coffees and almond butter—can cause irritation and are cause for a consultation with an allergist or immunologist.

7. NON-POLLEN-CONTAINING FOODS

Some foods don’t contain pollen but could still trigger your spring allergies.

Watch out for alcohol—such as beer, wine, and liquor—as they all contain histamine, which is the chemical that sets off allergy symptoms. Additionally, wine and beer contain sulfites, which could lead to a stuffy nose or other allergy symptoms.

Spicy foods, such as wasabi and horseradish, may seem like great choices, since they tend to clear out your nasal cavity, but spices can actually trigger the release of histamine.