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London, April 24 (Dialogue) For many, spring brings the dreaded symptoms of hay fever, such as itchy eyes, sneezing and stuffy nose. Hay fever is common, affecting up to 42% of people. It happens when the immune system overreacts to allergens, including pollen.
Research suggests there may be a link between hay fever and the microbiome, the collection of microbes that live in and on our bodies. Specifically, the composition of a person’s gut and nasal microbiome may play a role in the development of hay fever symptoms.
By exploring this connection, we can identify potential alternative treatments that may help reduce the impact of hay fever on people’s daily lives.
Hay fever and the microbiome Studies have shown that people with hay fever generally have a lower diversity in their gut microbiomes compared to people without hay fever. A decrease in gut bacterial diversity can lead to an imbalance in the microbiome and lead to higher levels of inflammation (the body’s immune response to irritants such as allergens).
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So the fact that reduced gut bacterial diversity would lead to an increased risk of hay fever makes sense, since the gut microbiome plays a key role in regulating the immune system, and the immune system is known to influence allergies.
The gut microbiota is thought to influence immune system function in several ways, including through the production of short-chain fatty acids. These are produced by gut bacteria during the fermentation of dietary fiber (part of normal digestion).
Short-chain fatty acids are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that lower levels of two strains of bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus) are associated with an increased risk of hay fever.
In addition to the gut microbiome, hay fever appears to be linked to the nasal microbiome, which inhabits the nasal passages.
The nasal microbiome plays an important role in regulating the immune system and preventing harmful pathogens from entering the body through the nose. Imbalances and reduced diversity of the nasal microbiome lead to increased risk of respiratory infections and worsening of hay fever symptoms.
Studies have shown that people with hay fever often have a different composition of their nasal microbiomes than people without hay fever, containing more certain bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus. This imbalance in the nasal microbiome can lead to increased inflammation and an increased risk of certain hay fever symptoms.
Potential role of probiotics and prebiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that enhance the composition of “good” bacteria in the body. Meanwhile, prebiotics are fibers that stimulate the good bacteria in your gut. Essentially, the good bacteria feed on the prebiotics. Both are important for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a vital role in our overall health.
Several strains of probiotic bacteria have been studied in relation to hay fever.
One interesting strain, Lactobacillus acidophilus, has been found to reduce hay fever symptoms such as congestion, itching, and sneezing. Another is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which has shown potential to prevent the development of hay fever in infants.
Other strains, such as Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Lactobacillus casei, have also shown some promise in reducing hay fever symptoms. But further research is needed.
How does this work?
Probiotics appear to modulate the immune response, specifically reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines. These are signaling molecules produced by immune system cells that promote inflammation.
For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus can reduce the expression of inflammatory cytokines associated with allergic inflammation in the nasal mucosa.
Likewise, L. rhamnosus GG has been shown to reduce airway hyperresponsiveness (excessive narrowing of the airways in response to stimuli), reduce inflammatory cells in the lungs, and reduce inflammatory cytokines.
Prebiotics, such as fructooligosaccharides, have also been studied for their potential in preventing hay fever. They have been found to increase beneficial gut bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. One study showed that supplementation with fructo-oligosaccharides in infants reduced the risk of hay fever.
Infused with probiotics and prebiotics
If you have hay fever, you may want to consider incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into your routine.
Probiotic supplements are widely available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and beverages. It’s important to choose a supplement that contains specific strains of probiotic bacteria that have been researched against hay fever.
These include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus casei.
You can also include probiotic-rich foods in your diet. These include fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha.
As for prebiotics, fructo-oligosaccharides are commonly found in certain foods such as bananas, onions, garlic, asparagus, artichokes, and whole grains. Supplements also come in a variety of forms, including powders and capsules.
Sometimes, taking probiotics and prebiotics may cause side effects, including digestive discomfort such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. To minimize these risks, it is recommended that you start with a low dose and gradually increase your dose. It’s also worth consulting a healthcare provider before taking these supplements, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications. (dialogue)
(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from a Syndicated News feed, the content body may not have been modified or edited by LatestLY staff)
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