### What Are Supplements?
Supplements are additional products taken to boost the nutrition you get from your diet. They come in various forms, like capsules, liquids, or powders that you mix with drinks. These can include vitamins, minerals, herbs, plant extracts, amino acids, or other nutrients. While we get most nutrients from the foods we eat, sometimes that’s just not enough.
For example, vegans often need B-12 supplements because they don’t get enough from their diet, and people with lactose intolerance usually need calcium supplements since they don’t consume dairy products. Athletes might take supplements to protect their muscles and joints. Some supplements even claim to help with illnesses; vitamin C, for instance, won’t cure a cold but can reduce its severity and duration if taken regularly.
### Allergies and the Immune System
Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, certain foods, or pet hair. These allergens trigger the immune system to produce an antibody called IgE, which binds to mast cells in the blood. Mast cells then release chemicals like histamine, causing allergy symptoms like a runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, or hives.
The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid the allergen, but that’s not always possible. Prescription medications and shots can be effective but often come with high costs and side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness.
A growing alternative is using dietary supplements to manage allergy symptoms.
### How Can Supplements Help?
Some supplements can work like medications by blocking the chemical reactions caused by mast cells, but with fewer side effects. Supplements can also strengthen your immune system, helping it fight off pathogens and reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
While prescription drugs are effective, the right supplements might allow some people to stop taking prescriptions altogether. Others can reduce their medication dosage by balancing it with supplements. However, always research and consult with experts like herbalists or naturopathic physicians before trying new supplements, as the wrong one might trigger your allergies.
Don’t forget about your pets either! There are supplements available for cats, dogs, and even horses to help manage their allergy symptoms too.