Histamine intolerance – symptoms, test, diet

The history of medicine knows many cases of intolerance to various substances, but one of the less known is histamine intolerance. This small molecule performs many important functions in our body, but some people are unable to process it properly. In today’s article, we will take a closer look at histamine intolerance, its symptoms, tests and appropriate diet.

What is histamine?

Histamine is an organic chemical compound that plays a key role in our body. It is naturally produced by our cells and performs many important functions, such as regulating immune processes, regulating blood flow, and participating in digestive processes. Histamine is also one of the factors responsible for allergic reactions.

Histamine intolerance – what is it? what are its causes?

Histamine intolerance, also called histamine intolerance, is a condition in which the body is unable to process histamine properly. The main cause of this condition is the lack or improper functioning of an enzyme called histamine diamine oxidase (DAO), which is responsible for the breakdown of histamine in the body. Histamine intolerance may have both genetic and acquired causes. In the case of genetic causes, people with familial histamine intolerance may inherit a defective gene responsible for the production of DAO. Acquired causes may be infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, medications, stress, or excessive alcohol consumption.

Histamine intolerance – symptoms

The symptoms of histamine intolerance can be varied and varied. They can occur both after eating foods rich in histamine and as a result of other factors such as stress. Common symptoms of histamine intolerance include:

• Skin itching
• Hives
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Tiredness
• Problems with concentration

Symptoms can be mild or more severe and pose a serious health problem for some people.

Histamine intolerance – research

If you suspect you have histamine intolerance, it is important to consult your doctor. The diagnosis is based on a thorough medical interview, laboratory tests and possibly skin tests. One of the popular tests is testing the level of the DAO enzyme in the blood and measuring the level of histamine in the blood.

Treatment of histamine intolerance

Treatment of histamine intolerance mainly involves eliminating or limiting the consumption of foods rich in histamine and other factors that may trigger symptoms. People suffering from histamine intolerance should avoid products such as alcohol, sauerkraut, canned goods, ripened cheeses, and products containing artificial colors and preservatives. In some cases, your doctor may recommend supplementing the enzyme DAO, which will help break down excess histamine in the body.

Your suggestions

If you suspect you have histamine intolerance, do not delay visiting your doctor. Diagnosis and appropriate diet can significantly improve the quality of life of people suffering from this problem. Also remember that histamine intolerance may be one of many factors affecting your health, so it is worth consulting a doctor in case of unusual health symptoms.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about histamine intolerance, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “Histamine and diet – how to avoid foods that cause histamine intolerance symptoms”
• “DAO enzyme – the key to controlling histamine intolerance”
• “Histamine intolerance in children – how to recognize and treat”

We hope these articles will help you better understand histamine intolerance and how to deal with it.

It is worth remembering that each body is different, so it is best to consult a doctor and a dietician who will adapt the appropriate treatment plan and diet to your individual needs.