Histamine allergy

Is there such a thing as histamine allergy?

While the term “histamine allergy” is often used, it is technically incorrect. What many people are experiencing is histamine intolerance, a condition where the body struggles to break down excess histamine effectively. Histamine is a natural compound vital for immune responses, digestion, and neural communication. However, when histamine levels become too high—often due to insufficient enzymatic breakdown—it can trigger symptoms that mimic an allergic reaction, such as itching, nasal congestion, headaches, and digestive issues. Understanding histamine intolerance and its management is crucial for improving overall well-being.

The role of histamine in the body

Histamine is a biogenic amine naturally produced by the body and found in various foods. It regulates immune responses, acts as a neurotransmitter, and aids gastric acid secretion for digestion. However, elevated histamine levels can lead to symptoms such as:

• Nasal congestion and sneezing
• Skin rashes and itching
• Headaches and dizziness
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating and diarrhea

The confusion between histamine and allergies often arises because the symptoms mimic an allergic reaction. However, histamine intolerance is not mediated by the immune system, as in true allergies, but results from insufficient enzymatic breakdown of histamine.

Identifying histamine intolerance

Diagnosing histamine intolerance involves recognizing symptoms and considering dietary triggers. Symptoms typically arise after consuming foods rich in histamine, such as:

• Aged cheeses
• Fermented foods and beverages (e.g., sauerkraut, wine, beer)
• Cured meats and smoked fish
• Alcoholic beverages

A histamine allergy test is often mistakenly referred to, but no specific “allergy test” exists for histamine intolerance. Instead, healthcare professionals use elimination diets or blood tests to measure the activity of diamine oxidase (DAO), the enzyme responsible for breaking down histamine.

Managing histamine intolerance

Effective histamine control involves dietary and lifestyle changes that help minimize histamine buildup:

1. Dietary Adjustments

• Avoid or reduce high-histamine foods like fermented products, aged cheeses, and alcoholic beverages.
• Prioritize fresh, unprocessed foods low in histamine, such as fresh vegetables, meats, and fish.

2. Antihistamines for Symptom Relief
Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines provide short-term relief from symptoms like itching and nasal congestion. These medications block histamine receptors and are effective for reducing the intensity of a histamine allergic reaction (though, technically, it’s intolerance).

3. Enzyme Supplements
Supplementing with diamine oxidase (DAO) can help individuals with histamine intolerance break down dietary histamine more effectively. DAO supplements are particularly useful before consuming histamine-rich meals.

4. Lifestyle Modifications

• Manage stress levels, as stress can exacerbate histamine release.
• Support gut health with probiotics, which help balance intestinal bacteria linked to histamine production.
• Stay hydrated and exercise regularly to improve overall metabolic function.

Proactive management for histamine sensitivity

Understanding the difference between histamine intolerance and allergies is key to effective management. While terms like “histamine allergy” may appear, it’s important to clarify that histamine issues stem from enzyme deficiencies rather than immune responses.

By adopting a low-histamine diet, using antihistamines for immediate relief, and supplementing with DAO, individuals can achieve histamine control and reduce symptoms. Addressing histamine sensitivity with a holistic approach ensures better long-term well-being and quality of life.

You can read more about the topic in our knowledge bank or you can contact one of our dieticians for personalized advice. If you’re facing symptoms and don’t know where they come from, you can take the intolerance test for more information:

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.