Allergy-causing pollen travels through the air, while parasites exist in contaminated foods or drinks. You cannot cure allergies, but you can limit your exposure to pollen, reducing your symptoms. You can help prevent contracting parasites by cultivating clean habits regarding food and water.
Grass Allergies
Grass and other plant allergies result from your body’s immune system reacting to pollen, reproductive cells produced by plants. Most pollen plants do not produce allergy-causing pollen, but some plants -- such as ragweed, elm and walnut trees -- may aggravate your allergies. The most common grasses that cause allergies are Bermuda, Johnson, Kentucky bluegrass, orchard, sweet vernal and timothy grass. Symptoms of allergies can include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchiness and red eyes.
Preventing Allergies
You can help reduce symptoms of allergies by limiting your exposure to pollen. Spend time outside later in the day or after a rainstorm, when the pollen count is lower. The National Institutes of Health recommends that you keep the windows in your house and car closed so that pollen does not get inside. If you are particularly allergic to grass pollen, have someone else in your family mow the lawn and keep your grass short. You also can plant grasses that produce less pollen.
Parasites
Most parasites are transmitted through food or water. Parasites are living organisms that rely on a human or animal body for nourishment and protection, according to the Department of Agriculture. Parasites typically are passed from host to host through food or water that has been contaminated with waste elements. Common parasites include giardia duodenalis, trichinella spiralis and taenia saginata -- a species of tapeworm.
Preventing Parasites
You can help prevent contracting parasites by preparing food in sanitary conditions, particularly when cooking with raw meat. Wash your hands and sterilize cooking utensils before preparing meals. Make sure you drink clean water, particularly in areas with commonly contaminated water sources. Drink pasteurized milk and juice and wash fruits and vegetables before eating them. Cook your meats properly, including beef, pork and lamb, until their internal temperature reaches at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees.
