(HealthNewsDigest.com) - Spring allergies are in full swing, but Pollen isn't the only reason people suffer from allergies in the fall. Pet dander, dust and mold are also common culprits. If you suffer from an allergy, it simply means that your immune system is over-reacting to a specific substance.

"If you suffer from allergies, one of the smartest things you can do is to keep your immune system in balance," says pharmacist and author Sherry Torkos. "Recognize that the stress of running kids to appointments, and gearing up for the holidays, can cause your immune system to get rundown making you more susceptible to allergic reactions such as a stuffy, runny nose."

To support your immune system, Torkos advises:

• Eat plenty of vibrantly-colored fruits and vegetables. "These play important roles in balancing the immune system. There is now science to support the old adage: an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Food is life. You need to eat good quality foods to provide you with a quality of life." 
• Cleanse your nasal passages: "Neti pots have become very popular right now - and with good reason. Most people know that they are a safe and natural way to help your body's natural mechanism for clearing your sinuses of bacteria and allergens. Instead of using plain water, try something with an extra boost such as Alkalol, which contains a blend of natural extracts and essential oils to help dissolve mucus in the nasal passages, sweep away bacteria and moisturize nasal passages."

• Make exercise part of your routine. "Staying active will help reduce your stress while boosting your immune system. It's a win-win!"

• Sing (to yourself) while washing your hands. "Hand washing remains one of the best ways to stay healthy. The length of time it takes to sing The Birthday Song is about how long it should take to thoroughly wash your hands."
• Make sleep a priority. "Your mind and body work better when they are well rested, and that applies to your body's defenses against allergens. Aim for at least seven or eight hours of uninterrupted sleep every night."
• Live healthfully every single day. "Compliance is critical. If you are taking essential medications, you take it as frequently as your doctor recommends.  Healthful food and exercise must also be done on a regular basis if you want to reap the benefits."

Taking better care of yourself will give you more time to stop and enjoy all of the good things that the season has to offer.

Sherry Torkos, BSc, Phm

Biographical Summary

Sherry Torkos is a pharmacist, author, certified fitness instructor and health enthusiast who enjoys sharing her passion with others.  Sherry graduated with honors from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science in 1992. Since that time she has been practicing holistic pharmacy in the Niagara region of Ontario. Her philosophy of practice is to integrate conventional and complementary therapies to optimize health and prevent disease.  Sherry has won several national pharmacy awards for providing excellence in patient care.

As a leading health expert, she has delivered hundreds of lectures to medical professionals and the public. Sherry is frequently interviewed on radio and TV talk shows throughout North America and abroad on health matters.

Sherry has authored 16 books and booklets, including Saving Women's Hearts, The Canadian Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, and The Glycemic Index Made Simple.

For more information visit, www.sherrytorkos.com

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