Tropical fruit can help tackle hay fever symptoms during UK pollen bomb

With much of the UK suffering from the ‘pollen bomb’ that has caused the number of 999 emergency calls to soar this week, people who suffer with hay fever are having to endure extreme symptoms.

The number of calls to the 999 earlier this week was the highest since the Covid pandemic subsided, with people fainting or gasping for breath due to allergic reactions during the current heatwave.  Even those sufferers who have not needed medical attention have been suffering with symptoms that include itchy eyes and runny noses.

And while dosing up on antihistamines can help ease the problem, it is claimed that pineapple can also improve the body’s response to the condition.  According to experts, the tropical fruit contains bromelain, an enzyme with natural anti-inflammatory properties that is useful for allergies, eczema, and asthma.

READ MORE: Experts share reasons for hay fever being so bad this year

Bromelain produces substances in the body that help fight inflammation, swelling, nasal congestion, and respiratory problems, boosting resistance to the worst hay fever symptoms.  Human bodies cannot produce this substance, but it is found in the juice and stem of pineapple.

According to Bed Kingdom, bromelain is used to aid digestion and for anti-inflammation and swelling caused by allergies.  It says that when pollen gets into the bloodstream, its proteins cause swelling, inflammation, and irritation to the nose, eyes, throat, and sinuses.

However, bromelain helps reduce the proteins, which cuts symptoms, and also offers pain relief.

Research also suggests that quercetin, a powerful antioxidant, can also help relieve inflammation and itchiness and boost the immune system.  Quercetin-rich foods include onions, kale, broccoli, and skin-on fruits like tomatoes, blueberries, and apples.

Bed Kingdom said: “Allergies are sometimes unavoidable, but there’s much we can do with our diet to reduce hay fever symptoms.

“These tips will contribute to a better night’s sleep when the pollen count is high, helping you wake up refreshed rather than groggy and stuffy.”