Does coffee help with seasonal allergies?

According to immunologist Purvi Parikh, MD, the answer is yes.

But there’s a catch.

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For me, its thebest time to take allergy medicineto stop symptoms in their tracks.

(One more reason to havecoffee first thing in the morning.)

And the same thing happens in your head.

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allergist, immunologist, and medical advisor with theAllergy &

Most allergy pills are antihistamines that make you sleepy.

But the caffeine definitely helps, too.

As someone who is very sensitive to caffeine, this is music to my ears.

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Some people are very sensitive to caffeine.

Some people who drink it constantly are not as sensitive to it, says Dr. Parikh.

Still: The equivalent of one cup of coffee is plenty for most people.

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The change definitely improves my focus.

Can caffeine make allergies worse?

Drinking coffee or any other caffeinated drink will cause histamine release in your body.

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allergist, immunologist, and medical advisor with theAllergy &

The more caffeinated drinks you have, the worse your congestion and inflammation may be.

And you dont have to get too complicated theyre probably more simple than you realize.

ThePremier Allergy and Asthma Centersuggests staying hydrated throughout the day to thin out mucus and avoid buildup.

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Tea

Hot tea is another sore throat soother that can provide herbal allergy relief.

These teas fight inflammation with their natural antihistamine properties, per the Premier Allergy and Asthma Center.

Orange juice

Vitamin C is a natural powerhouse for our immune systems.

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

It can also stand up against allergies, thanks to its natural antihistamine effects.

Thats what makes fresh orange juice one of the best drinks to fight allergies.

Other sources of vitamin C are good too, like strawberries, lemons, grapefruit, and kiwi.

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