Dr. Gluzman's Holistic Approach to Seasonal Allergies in Kids

Seasonal allergies can make spring and fall especially challenging for kids. Sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and disrupted sleep don't just affect how children feel—they can impact their energy, focus, and overall well-being.

At The Lanby, we believe allergy care should go beyond simply managing symptoms. Led by Dr. Nelli Gluzman, our pediatric approach combines evidence-based medicine with lifestyle medicine principles to help support the whole child. That means treating allergies when needed while also looking at the everyday habits that influence immune health, inflammation, and resilience.

Here's how Dr. Gluzman approaches seasonal allergies through a thoughtful, holistic lens.

Dr. Gluzman's Holistic Approach to Seasonal Allergies in Kids

Seasonal allergies are one of the most common reasons families visit the pediatrician. While medications can play an important role, they're only one piece of the puzzle.

If you're looking for holistic, kid-friendly ways to support seasonal allergies, there are several evidence-informed approaches that may help reduce symptoms alongside conventional care. The goal is to support the immune system, reduce overall inflammation, and minimize allergen exposure—helping kids feel better today while building healthier habits for the future.

We Treat the Whole Child—Not Just the Symptoms

At The Lanby, we take a root-cause approach whenever possible. During visits, Dr. Gluzman looks beyond your child's allergy symptoms to understand the bigger picture, including:

• Nutrition and dietary patterns
• Sleep quality
• Gut health
• Environmental exposures
• Daily movement and outdoor habits
• Family history
• Overall immune health

This whole-child perspective allows us to create personalized care plans that support long-term wellness, not just temporary symptom relief.

Nutrition: Supporting the Immune System From the Inside Out

Food won't cure seasonal allergies, but a nutrient-dense diet can help support a healthy immune system and reduce overall inflammation.

Prioritize Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Vitamin C acts as a natural antioxidant and may help support the body's response to seasonal allergens.

Try including:

• Strawberries
• Kiwi
• Oranges
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli

Add Omega-3 Healthy Fats

Omega-3 fatty acids may help support a balanced inflammatory response.

Kid-friendly options include:

• Salmon
• Sardines
• Chia seeds
• Ground flaxseed
• Walnuts (when age-appropriate and if there is no tree nut allergy)

Consider Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays an important role in immune function and overall health. Research has found that children with seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) are more likely to have lower vitamin D levels, and maintaining healthy vitamin D levels may support overall immune function.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children receive at least 400 IU of vitamin D daily for bone health and general wellness.

Good dietary sources include:

• Fortified milk
• Fortified orange juice
• Salmon and other fatty fish
• Egg yolks
• Fortified cereals

If you're concerned your child may not be getting enough vitamin D, Dr. Gluzman can evaluate their levels with a simple blood test and recommend supplementation when appropriate.

Eat the Rainbow

Encourage a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables each week, such as:

• Berries
• Leafy greens
• Sweet potatoes
• Carrots
• Apples

These foods provide antioxidants and phytonutrients that help support overall health.

Don't Forget Gut Health

Emerging research continues to explore the connection between the gut microbiome and immune function. While the science is still evolving, supporting a healthy gut may play a role in regulating immune responses.

Foods rich in probiotics include:

• Plain yogurt with live cultures
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut (for older children who enjoy it)

Foods Naturally Rich in Quercetin

Quercetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. It has been studied for its ability to help support healthy histamine levels and maintain a balanced immune response.

Foods naturally rich in quercetin include:

• Apples
• Onions
• Berries
• Kale
• Grapes

While quercetin supplements may be appropriate for some children, Dr. Gluzman recommends discussing supplementation with your pediatrician before starting any new products.

Saline Nasal Rinses: A Simple Tool That Works

One of Dr. Gluzman's favorite non-medication recommendations is saline.

Saline helps rinse pollen and allergens from the nasal passages before they trigger inflammation.

Depending on your child's age, this may include:

• Saline nasal spray for younger children
• Saline rinse or a neti pot for older children who can safely use one

Always use sterile, distilled, or previously boiled water for nasal rinses.

Why Dr. Gluzman Recommends Raw Honey

For children over 1 year old, raw, unfiltered honey can be a nutritious addition to the diet.

Unlike commercial pasteurized honey, raw honey naturally contains enzymes, bee pollen, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds that support overall wellness. Dr. Gluzman recommends choosing honey that is:

• Raw and unfiltered
• Sourced from a humane, pesticide-free apiary whenever possible
• Naturally cloudy or crystallized, which may indicate it retains beneficial compounds like bee pollen and propolis

We love BeeKeeper’s Naturals. 

While raw honey is not a cure for seasonal allergies, some families find it to be a nourishing addition to their child's diet. Research has also shown that honey may help soothe coughs during respiratory illnesses in children over one year of age.

Never give honey to infants under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism.

Hydration Matters

Staying hydrated helps thin mucus, making congestion easier to manage.

Good options include:

• Water
• Coconut water
• Homemade fruit-infused water
• Warm broth

Keeping kids well hydrated is a simple habit that supports overall wellness during allergy season.

Herbal Teas for Older Kids

For older children, certain herbal teas may be soothing.

Options include:

• Chamomile tea
• Ginger tea
• Peppermint tea (avoid in very young children)

Always speak with your pediatrician before using herbal remedies, especially if your child has asthma or takes other medications.

Targeted Supplements May Help

For some children with seasonal allergies, Dr. Gluzman may recommend targeted nutritional supplements alongside lifestyle strategies.

Two of her preferred options include:

• D-Hist Junior® by Ortho Molecular Products (ages 12+)
• Snifflex with NAC® by Creekside Naturals (ages 2+)

These supplements contain ingredients such as quercetin, vitamin C, bromelain, stinging nettle, and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), which work together to support healthy histamine levels, healthy nasal passages, and normal immune function.

Because these supplements work by gradually supporting the body's natural immune response, they are typically most effective when taken consistently for 3–4 weeks before peak allergy symptoms.

As with any supplement, always consult your child's pediatrician before starting a new regimen.

Improve Your Home Environment

Reducing allergen exposure at home can make a meaningful difference.

A high-quality HEPA air purifier in your child's bedroom can help reduce:

• Pollen
• Dust
• Pet dander
• Mold spores

One of our favorite options is the AirDoctor, which uses a robust filtration system designed to reduce airborne allergens.

Small Habits That Reduce Pollen Exposure

Sometimes the simplest strategies have the biggest impact.

During allergy season, encourage your child to:

• Change clothes after outdoor play
• Wash hands and face after coming inside
• Remove shoes at the door
• Keep windows closed during high-pollen days
• Use air conditioning instead of opening windows
• Bathe or shower before bedtime to remove pollen from skin and hair

Sleep Is Part of Allergy Care

Seasonal allergies often interfere with sleep, leading to congestion, nighttime coughing, and frequent waking. Poor sleep can affect your child's mood, energy, focus, and overall immune function.

To promote better sleep during allergy season:

• Keep bedrooms cool, dark, and comfortable
• Wash bedding regularly in hot water
• Minimize allergens in the sleep environment
• Run a HEPA air purifier if appropriate
• Bathe or shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair

Helping children sleep better can significantly improve how they feel throughout allergy season.

When Medication Is the Right Choice

At The Lanby, we're not "natural at all costs."

There are times when antihistamines or nasal steroid sprays are the best option to help children stay comfortable, sleep well, and participate fully in school and activities.

Our philosophy is thoughtful, personalized care—using lifestyle strategies to build a strong foundation while incorporating medications when they're truly needed.

A Whole-Child Approach to Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies aren't just about pollen. They're about how a child's immune system, environment, nutrition, sleep, and daily habits work together.

That's why Dr. Gluzman's approach goes beyond symptom management. By combining evidence-based pediatric medicine with lifestyle principles, we help families reduce allergy triggers, support immune health, and create sustainable habits that benefit children long after allergy season ends.

At The Lanby, we're here to help your child feel better today while building a strong foundation for lifelong health. Book a complimentary Discovery Call to learn more about Pediatric Care at The Lanby. 

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