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What is a histamine Intolerance?

Histamine is a compound that is involved in local immune responses whilst also helping to regulate physiological function in the gut and can act as a neurotransmitter. When the body feels it is under threat or is overloaded, in an attempt to protect the body, histamine is released into the bloodstream to help reduce and mediate this response.

When histamine levels in the body become too high and it cannot be broken down properly, a variety of symptoms may develop. Some common reactions include headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, sinus issues, fatigue, hives, digestive issues, nausea and vomiting. In some severe cases you can experience abdominal cramping, swelling, high blood pressure and heart rate, anxiety and dizziness.

What causes high histamine levels?

When our body produces histamine, it also produces the enzyme responsible for its breakdown, the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO). If you develop a DAO deficiency and are unable to break down histamine, then you could develop an intolerance. Some of the reasons why your DAO enzyme levels may be low include gastrointestinal disorder such as leaky gut or irritable bowel syndrome, histamine-rich foods and foods that block DAO enzymes or trigger histamine release.

Which foods are high in histamine?

  • Alcohol and other fermented beverages such as beer, cider, wine, kombucha, ginger beer

  • Vinegar, soy sauce

  • Fermented foods and dairy products such as yoghurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, kefir and tempeh

  • Dried fruits

  • Avocado

  • Eggplant

  • Spinach

  • Tomatoes

  • Processed or smoked meats

  • Shellfish

  • Aged cheese

Which foods trigger histamine release in the body?

  • Alcohol

  • Bananas

  • Citrus fruits

  • Tomatoes

  • Wheat germ

  • Beans and legumes

  • Chocolate

  • Walnuts, cashews and peanuts

Foods to eat:

There is no such thing a histamine-free diet , but if you have a histamine intolerance, incorporating low-histamine foods into your diet can help reduce symptoms, including:

  • Fresh meat and freshly caught fish

  • Non-citrus fruit

  • Eggs

  • Gluten-free grains such as quinoa and rice

  • Dairy substitutes such as almond milk or coconut milk

  • Fresh vegetables, except tomatoes, avocado, spinach and eggplant

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