Before you reach for that antihistamine, there are some foods that can help ease your allergy symptoms.

Spring allergies are here and the itchy eyes, scratchy throat and foggy feeling they bring with them are enough to stop you in your tracks.  Before you reach for that antihistamine, there are some foods that can help ease your symptoms.   Try these five allergy-fighting foods:

1. Garlic – garlic is a natural antibiotic known to fight infections, viruses and even allergies. Garlic is packed with quercetin, which is known to act as an antihistamine.  A study from the University of Maryland found that garlic can strengthen your immune system and make you more resistant to colds and allergens.
2. Fatty Fish – DHA and EPA, two types of healthy omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish can be beneficial in easing allergy symptoms. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, helpful for inflamed and irritated tissues around the nose and throat.
3. Nuts – some tree nuts, such as walnuts and flax seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They can decrease allergy-induced inflammation.  Better still, as a plant source; nuts also contain the ALA chain, which facilitates the production of EPA and DHA in your body.  A handful of walnuts can be the equivalent of 3 ounces of salmon.
4. Turmeric – turmeric is a spice belonging to the ginger family. It is beneficial for seasonal allergies because its active compound curcumin, has the power to block mast cells from releasing histamine.  Turmeric can help remove excess mucous and reduce inflammation and in the sinuses and respiratory tract.
5. Broccoli – that’s right, eating your greens is good for your allergies! Broccoli also contains quercetin as well as sulforaphane, an anti-inflammatory compound. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clincal Immunology found that broccoli is successful in stimulating an antioxidant response, which is great since respiratory inflammation is typically responsible for asthma and allergies