4 Vitamins That May Be Helpful for Allergies

While there are many prescribed and over-the-counter allergy medications and antihistamines we have access to, many people prefer to take the natural route - myself included. This means using supplements and herbal products for allergies and dietary changes. Many may help, but for now, let's focus on the vitamins necessary for those of us struggling with allergies.

These are the vitamins that have worked for me personally. Remember that everyone is different, and you should always consult with your doctor before trying any vitamins or supplements.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant and a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it is stored in the body. We can get it through certain foods such as leafy greens, olive oil, sunflower oil, and some nuts, like peanuts and almonds (of course, that's not very helpful for those with nut allergies).¹

One of the best dietary changes I made for myself that impacted my allergies, skin, immune system, and overall well-being is using only olive oil for cooking. Vitamin E has the potential to boost immunity.¹

I believe my allergies are directly related to my immune system, so that's why vitamin E has helped me.

Vitamin C

Many of us know how vital vitamin C is for overall health and well-being. The first thing some people do when they show any signs of a cold or other illness is to take vitamin C. A 2018 study suggested that vitamin C has even more potential in managing symptoms of a wide range of health conditions and imbalances, including allergies. That study looked at the effects of intravenous vitamin C taken for 10-14 weeks and appeared to be linked to a decrease in allergy symptoms.²

Personally, I enjoy taking the pure, powder form of vitamin C, which is also called ascorbic acid. I can either mix it in water or put it in my daily smoothie. It tastes like lemon-infused water. I find it is easier on my digestive system than taking capsules or anything else that may be loaded with extra fillers.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is another essential vitamin. This vitamin supports vision health, healthy skin, and the immune system. If you are looking to add vitamin A through food, beef liver has the highest amount. And if you're cringing at the thought of eating beef liver – you're not alone. I'm definitely not a fan, either!

Thankfully, we can also get vitamin A from fish, butter, cheese, sweet potatoes, kale, squash, mango, and cantaloupe, among others. Interestingly, a deficiency of vitamin A was shown in one study to increase susceptibility and worsen symptoms of allergies in mice.³

Vitamin D

I don't think I'd be doing my due diligence if I didn't mention vitamin D. Vitamin D plays an important role in our overall health, not just our allergies. Of course, the best way to get a wonderful, big, natural dose of vitamin D is to get out in the sun.

However, it's important to supplement when necessary during the winter and for those with vitamin D deficiencies. One Japanese study showed a link between vitamin D deficiency, sun exposure, time of year born, and food allergies and atopic dermatitis (eczema).⁴

Start with the basics and keep it simple

The supplements mentioned above are just a few "basics" that are important for everyone, not just those of us with allergies.

However, since there may be a link between these vitamins and allergy symptoms, I think it may be worth looking at your diet. As with anything else, we are all different, and listening to our bodies should always come first.

Editor's Note: Supplements are not regulated by the FDA. This means no agency confirms the ingredients. For example, a fish oil supplement may have more or less fish oil than listed on the label. A supplement may also contain ingredients that are not labeled correctly or at all. This can be dangerous. It can lead to taking too much or taking unwanted ingredients.

The FDA created good manufacturing practices (GMPs) to help this situation. GMPs are guidelines for companies to follow when making supplements. The FDA rarely inspects facilities making supplements in the United States. Companies outside the United States do not have these inspections. But many more supplements are sold than are tested. Your doctor can help you decide if a supplement is safe.