How to Live With an Allergy to Aspirin

Salicylates are substances that naturally occur in many fruits and vegetables. Aspirin is a salicylate substance, and salicylates are also used in some food colorings and additives.

Difficulty:

Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Bromelain
• Grapeseed Extract
• Quercetin
• Vitamin C

1. Avoid taking any medication that contains aspirin. Some common ones are medications for headaches, colds, coughs, allergies, sinus problems, arthritis, rheumatism, menstrual cramps, stomach acidity, backaches and urinary pain.

2. Read food labels carefully. An allergy to salicylates may be associated with an intolerance to certain other chemicals, such as azo dyes and benzoate. They are used in many processed food products and go under a variety of names. You may want to speak to an allergist about what particular chemicals to avoid.

3. Eat as much fresh meat, fish, shellfish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, cereals and bread as you like. They are naturally low in salicylates.

4. Read labels on non-food products carefully as well. Salicylates are used in mint-flavored products, such as chewing gum and toothpaste. They are also used in some artificial colorings and flavors.

5. Avoid foods very high in salicylates. They include apricots, berries, grapes, oranges, plums, pineapples, olives, radishes, tomatoes, all tomato-based foods, all dried fruit, all jams and jellies, marmalades, fruit juices and soy sauce. Check with an allergist for a complete list.

6. Assess your toleration level. If you are not very sensitive, you may be able to tolerate foods that are moderately high in salicylates, and may only need to avoid the ones with very high levels.

7. Add a supplement of vitamin C with bioflavonoids to your diet, 1,000 to 5,000 mg per day in divided doses. It helps your body cope with allergens and decreases inflammation.

8. Use quercetin, 500mg two times per day. It helps decrease allergic reactions and supports the immune system.

9. Take bromelain, 100mg two times per day. It enhances the action of quercetin.

10. Take pine bark or grapeseed extract, 300mg daily. It may help relieve allergic symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• The preparation of a food can affect its salicylate level. Raw foods, dried foods and juices contain higher levels than the same food when cooked.

• If you have had a severe reaction in the past, do not attempt to reintroduce salicylates back into your diet. Remain on an avoidance diet.

• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.