Outsmart spring allergies - naturally!

Now that spring is finally here, we're eager to get out and about. But for the 56% of us who suffer from allergies, symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes and headaches slow us down. And while over-the-counter allergy medications abound, research conducted at UC San Diego reveals that in 67% of cases, they fail to offer the relief women seek. Luckily, these simple natural strategies offer benefits on their own or in addition to OTC meds

- Melissa Gotthardt

Cook with this colorful spice

Turmeric makes a tasty addition to everything from scrambled eggs to salad dressings to rice dishes. And the curcumin it contains has a natural antihistamine action. In fact, research in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology suggests enjoying 2 to 3 tsp. of turmeric daily curbs allergy-induced congestion and sneezing by 63% within eight weeks. Tip: When cooking with turmeric, add a few pinches of black pepper. An Indian study found its piperine enhances curcumin absorption by up to 2,000%.

Don a pair of sporty shades