Understanding histamine intolerance: Causes, symptoms and proven management strategies
Histamine intolerance is a disorder in which the body has difficulty breaking down histamine, a natural chemical compound in the body, appropriately. This leads to a build-up of histamine in the blood, which in turn can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms.
What are the causes of histamine intolerance?
The main cause of histamine intolerance is often a deficiency in diaminooxidase (DAO), an enzyme responsible for breaking down histamine. This deficiency can be genetic or due to other factors such as certain medications, intestinal diseases or stress.
What are the symptoms of histamine intolerance?
The symptoms of histamine intolerance are varied and range from headaches, skin rashes and itching to digestive problems such as abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea. It is important to note that symptoms can vary from person to person.
How is histamine intolerance diagnosed?
Diagnosis is often made through a detailed medical history, symptom-related questionnaires and, in individual cases, specific blood tests. Identification of triggers and monitoring of individual reactions are crucial for the diagnosis of histamine intolerance.
What is the management and treatment of histamine intolerance?
Management of histamine intolerance primarily involves avoiding high histamine foods and adopting a low histamine diet. This can help patients to control their symptoms. Additionally, DAO supplements may be considered to help break down histamine.
What lifestyle changes are helpful in relieving symptoms of histamine intolerance?
Identifying and avoiding trigger factors, stress management and a healthy lifestyle play a key role in managing histamine intolerance. This can include incorporating relaxation techniques and regular exercise.
What are histamine-rich foods?
Histamine-rich foods can trigger symptoms in people with histamine intolerance as their bodies struggle to break down histamine effectively. Here are some examples of histamine-rich foods that should be avoided or can be limited on an individual basis:
- Ripe and aged foods
- Mature cheese (e.g. parmesan, gouda, cheddar)
- Sauerkraut
- Fermented dairy products (yogurt, buttermilk)
- Soy sauce and fermented soy products
- Cured and fermented foods
- Smoked fish (salmon, mackerel)
- Ham
- Salami and other cured meat products
- Sourdough bread
- Fruit
- Strawberries
- Bananas
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons)
- Vegetables
- Tomatoes and tomato-based products
- Eggplants
- Spinach
- Drinks
- Alcohol, especially red wine, beer and champagne
- Black tea
- green tea
- Spices and sauces
- Vinegar
- Ketchup
- Mustard
It is important to note that individual tolerance to histamine-rich foods can vary. Some people with histamine intolerance may be able to consume certain foods in limited amounts, while others may need to avoid them completely. Careful observation of individual reactions to certain foods is crucial in order to develop a suitable diet.
Vivomed recommends that individuals with histamine intolerance develop a comprehensive list of histamine-rich foods in consultation with our physician, Dr. Schlosser, or other dietitians to allow for targeted diet design.
Summary of histamine intolerance:
Histamine intolerance can have a significant impact on daily life, but with a targeted diagnosis and personalized treatment approach, symptoms can be well controlled. A comprehensive understanding of the causes and proven management strategies is crucial to help patients lead a symptom-free life.