ANTIHISTAMINES CAN ACTUALLY MAKE YOU GAIN WEIGHT!

 It's allergy season, and this year we're seeing record-breaking pollen counts. You might be experiencing symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. While many people turn to over-the-counter antihistamines to treat seasonal allergies, it's important to be aware that these medications could potentially lead to weight gain. Research has shown that individuals with obesity are more susceptible to allergies, possibly due to the medications used for treatment.

In a study published in the journal Obesity in 2010, scientists from Yale University discovered that people who took antihistamines experienced weight gain. This is because histamine, which affects body weight, has receptors in the hypothalamus, the brain's appetite control center. When antihistamines block these receptors, the brain doesn't receive the usual "I'm full" signal, leading to increased appetite and overeating. Additionally, the body's ability to burn calories effectively is compromised when histamine receptors are blocked, resulting in a slower metabolism and weight gain. Antihistamines can also induce feelings of tiredness and reduce motivation to exercise.

Antihistamines known to cause weight gain include:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl and others)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril)
• Chlorpheniramine maleate (Chlor-Trimeton)

If you require an antihistamine, your best option is loratadine (Claritin). Unlike other antihistamines, loratadine does not cross the blood-brain barrier, meaning it cannot stimulate the brain's appetite center or cause fatigue. Other side effects of antihistamines include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, restlessness or moodiness, trouble urinating, blurred vision, and confusion.

Alternative allergy treatments include steroid nasal sprays and eye drops, decongestants, cromolyn sodium nasal spray, and allergy shots. Frequent showers and salt-water nasal washes can also provide relief. Non-medication strategies for managing allergies involve reducing exposure to triggers like pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander.