Understanding Histamine Intolerance and How to Manage it
Many people are familiar with antihistamines, also known as allergy medications, but may not fully understand what histamines are. Histamines are natural chemicals produced by the immune system to help the body deal with allergens, or substances that cause allergies. They can make people sneeze, tear up, or feel itchy as a way to eliminate the allergen. However, in some cases, histamines can overreact and view harmless substances as a threat, leading to allergy symptoms.
Histamine intolerance can result in symptoms similar to allergies but to a more extreme degree, impacting digestion, energy levels, and other bodily functions. Symptoms of histamine intolerance may include digestive problems, fatigue, headaches, heartburn, hives, irregular menstrual cycles, nausea, sinus issues, watery eyes, and vomiting. More severe cases can involve abdominal pain, anxiety, difficulty breathing, dizziness, high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and difficulty regulating body temperature.
Histamine intolerance occurs when the body has an excess of histamines, often due to a deficiency in the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), responsible for breaking down histamine during digestion. This can be caused by gastrointestinal disorders, medications, histamine-rich foods, and other factors. Managing the condition can be challenging, as individual tolerance levels vary.
Diet plays a crucial role in managing histamine levels, as certain foods can either contribute to histamine levels or trigger its release. Avoiding histamine-rich foods and focusing on low-histamine options can help reduce symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a dietician before making any significant dietary changes and seek professional medical advice for diagnosis and management of histamine intolerance.
