10 Ways to Conquer Seasonal Changes

Are you one of the 35 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies? The itchy, watery eyes, constant runny nose and unending sneezing are telltale signs of airborne irritants. Not everyone has seasonal allergies, but anyone who suffers from them knows that spring can be a difficult time to celebrate.

For most of the U.S. the allergy season starts in mid-March. A seasonal allergy is the body’s reaction to an airborne particle such as pollen or mold. These allergies surface at specific times of the year when certain weeds, grasses, or trees are flowering or when molds release spores into the air.

It’s thought that people with allergies have hyper-sensitive immune systems that are triggered by foreign substances. When pollen or other substances that aren’t actually harmful to the body are breathed in, the body views it as a dangerous invader and turns on its defense mechanisms. The runny nose, watery eyes and frequent sneezing are meant to flush the allergen from the body.

Though the spring and summer growing season is an inevitable part of the year, you can take a proactive approach to supporting your body and your environment at this time of year. Some of the suggestions are common-sense activities you can do in your home. Nature’s Sunshine also has a great line-up of products that work to support and maintain your respiratory system during this potentially stressful season.

Here are 10 ways to conquer seasonal changes:

1. ALJ ®. NSP’s key product for the respiratory system. This product nourishes the immune system and respiratory systems, supports healthy lung function and encourages the respiratory tract to gently cleanse itself.
2. Dieter’s Cleanse (14 day) ®. This cleanse is not just for weight management, the 7 herbal combinations in this 14 day cleanse will help support the natural elimination of waste buildup and toxins that can affect overall health. Colon health directly affects the immune system and the respiratory system so it is very important to pay attention to these areas. This cleanse is well-rounded and helps support all aspects of elimination. The glands are also supported.
3. Seasonal Defense. This product includes a blend of andrographis and other immune-supporting herbs, Seasonal Defense strengthens the immune system and may help maintain the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
4. Sinus Support EF®. This formula is ephedra-free and supplies nutrients that may support nasal passages and proper respiratory function.
5. HistaBlock®. A powerful combination of stinging nettle, quercetin, bromelain and immature orange peel, Histablock supports the respiratory system during times of stress and helps maintain mucous membrane health and nasal passage tissues.
6. Close your house and your car. Limit your exposure to the particles in outside air and run your air conditioner, which filters the air as it cools it.
7. Clean. Do a thorough spring cleaning. Windows, bookshelves and vents collect dust and mold.
8. Wash. As you come in from being outside, you bring particles and dust in with you — on your skin and your clothes. Wash exposed skin and, if you need to, change clothes once you’re inside. If you have outdoor pets, wash them too before bringing them in, or arrange to leave them outside.
9. Stay away from chemical irritants. Fumes from tobacco smoke, paint, insect sprays and other chemicals can affect the lungs and nasal passages.
10. Homeopathic Remedies. NSP offers three homeopathic remedies for both general and specific allergy concerns, Allergy, Allergies–Hayfever/Pollen and Allergies–Mold, Yeast & Dust.

Don’t suffer this season give these products and lifestyle changes a try! If you would like more help with your specific health challenges e-mail me at Paige@mynsp.com.

To find out more about me, Paige Rennekamp, CNHP, or to learn more about Nature’s Sunshine Products visit www.naturalhealthanswers.com.

Sun Protection Tips

Now that spring has sprung and summer is right around the corner I thought I would talk about sun protection. Of course I’m sure you have learned by now to protect yourself year round from the sun by using an SPF of 15 or higher. But as the weather becomes warmer we’re outside more enjoying all the fun summer activities so we need to protect ourselves even more.

Just yesterday my family and I were headed out for a walk in the park but not before we grabbed Natria Sunscreen with an SPF 30 and we slathered it on all of our exposed skin including the back of our necks and on our ears (always forgotten areas that are very sensitive). We had a great time and didn’t need to worry about sun damage.

A fun day in the sun can quickly turn to misery if you haven’t protected yourself properly. More importantly, sunburns increase risk of skin damage and cancer. 

Follow these sun-smart tips:

• Avoid the sun during peak hours, usually between 10:00 a.m. to 3-4:00 p.m. When you aren’t sure of the sun’s strength, follow the shadow test; if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun is at its strongest.
• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15, even on cloudy days. Broad spectrum means that it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. For the best protection, apply sun-screen 20-30 minutes before you go outside, and reapply every two hours. Help children stay protected as they play outdoors.
• Cover up. Wear a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses. Use clothing to protect your skin. Dark-colored, tightly woven clothing offers the best protection.
• Don’t forget your lips! Natria Lip Balm defends delicate lips with UVA and UVB protection. SPF 15 provides 15 times your skin’s natural sun defense.Pure plant extracts and vitamins A, B, C, and E soothe and condition the lip area, supply skin-essential antioxidants and provide long-lasting moisture.
• By some slim chance you do get too much sun one of the best things to use is Aloe Vera Gel. The gel of the aloe vera plant has been used for centuries to soothe the skin. Aloe vera feels so good on hot skin. Along with its cooling effect, it soothes, hydrates and moisturizes the skin. Aloe vera can also be slathered on minor skin problems too.
• Don’t forget the kids! Their skin is very sensitive to the suns damaging rays. Cover up the tiny ones well and use the Natria Sunscreen for them as well. It can be used on children 6 months and older.

I hope these tips are helpful and that you have fun in the sun this summer while protecting your skin!

To find out more about the products listed please click on the link or visit my web site at http://www.naturalhealthanswers.com/ and click on the products tab.

Questions or Comments on this information? Email me at: Paige@mynsp.com