Spring allergies bugging you? Some foods can help, some make it worse

Fresh fruit sit wait to be picked up from their stands on the morning of the grand opening at Publix 1648 on Hwy 76 in Clarksville, Tenn.
Photo credit Henry Taylor/The Leaf-Chronicle via USA TODAY NETWORK
WARRINGTON, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — If your spring allergies are already a problem, changing your diet could help stop the itching and sneezing. 

When the pollen counts soar and your allergies get annoying, it's best to eat a bland diet, according to Dr. Richard Smayda of AFC Urgent Care in Warrington. He says hot, spicy foods can trigger your body to release histamines - the chemicals released during allergic reactions. So pack your plate with fruits rich in vitamin c.

A good choice is pineapple, which he says contains an enzyme which reduces swelling in the nose and sinuses. Dairy should be avoided as it can make mucus thicker. 

And no tomatoes either. 

"They can produce histamine and irritation and inflammation, opposite of what the medication is for, an anti-histamine effect is to reverse our allergic response," Smayda said. 

And cut out the wine because some varieties can make your nose stuffy and eyes itchy.