Anti-allergy papaya smoothie

Only ingredients that reduce the severity of allergic symptoms

With the snow melting, allergy season is about to get into full swing. If you suffer from seasonal or environmental allergies, your body secretes histamine, a substance involved in the immune process of allergic reaction. The result: you experience symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, a tingling sensation in the throat, nasal congestion, watery eyes and itchy eyes.

If you suffer the daily impact of these symptoms, you're probably looking for a solution. Here's our natural allergy solution, an anti-allergy papaya smoothie!

All the ingredients in this smoothie recipe have the ability to reduce the severity of allergic symptoms.

• Papaya is the richest fruit in vitamin C, an antioxidant vitamin that can block histamine secretion.¹. In addition, the enzymes contained in papaya help regulate the inflammatory response involved in the allergic process.¹.
• Strawberries are on the list of fruits richer in vitamin C than oranges. In fact, when compared by weight, strawberries exceed the amount of vitamin C found in oranges, making them a good ally in the fight against allergies. However, be sure to opt for organic strawberries, as those grown conventionally contain higher levels of pesticide residues.².
• Pineapple juicelike the whole fruit, contains an enzyme called bromelain, well-known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-histaminic properties.¹.
• Unpasteurized honey from local beekeepers is increasingly used to counter the severity of allergic symptoms. Unpasteurized honey may act as a form of immunotherapy, gradually accustoming the body to tolerate very small doses of pollen. Although this theory has yet to be proven through clinical studies, numerous anecdotal cases reinforce its plausibility.
• Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that fortify the intestinal flora and boost immunity. Studies have shown that regular intake of probiotics reduces the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.³.

Preparation : 5 minutes

Level : Beginner

Portions : 2 smoothies

Ingredients

1 cup fresh papaya, peeled and chopped

1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, washed and hulled

1 tablespoon raw honey

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 cup pineapple juice

1 ½ cups water

Contents of one probiotics

Approach

1. Place all ingredients in high-power blender. Blend for 30 seconds or until smooth.
2. Serve immediately or store for three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake smoothie vigorously before drinking.

Enjoy!

About the author

Naturopaths of La Boite à Grains

Team of licensed and certified naturopaths (ND) in Gatineau, Outaouais.

Original article written by Véronique Cousineau, Naturopath

 Sources

1: Natural Anti-Histamines. Campbell M Gold. 2011

2: Environmental Working Group: ewg.org

3: Zajac, A.E.; Adams, A.S.; Turner, J.H. A systematic review and meta-analysis of probiotics for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology 2015, 5, 524-532.