DAO deficiency

Histamine intolerance

DAO deficiency (or Diamine Oxidase deficiency) is a condition that affects the body’s ability to break down histamine, a compound found naturally in certain foods and produced during allergic reactions. This enzymatic deficiency can result in an accumulation of histamine can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.

What is DAO deficiency?

DAO is an enzyme produced primarily in the digestive system. It plays a vital role in metabolizing histamine from dietary sources. When DAO levels are insufficient or its activity is impaired, histamine builds up, causing adverse reactions. This condition is also known as histamine intolerance and is often linked to underlying health conditions, medications, or genetic predisposition.

DAO deficiency symptoms

Recognizing DAO deficiency symptoms is the first step toward effective management. Common symptoms include gastrointestinal issues like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, as well as systemic reactions such as headaches, nasal congestion, skin rashes, fatigue, and flushing. These symptoms may mimic allergic reactions but are specifically due to the body’s inability to process histamine effectively.

Individuals with DAO deficiency often find that consuming high-histamine foods like aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented products, and certain fruits can exacerbate these symptoms. Identifying these dietary triggers is crucial in managing the condition.

Test for DAO deficiency

If you suspect you have DAO deficiency, seeking a test for DAO deficiency is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Various tests are available, including blood tests to measure DAO enzyme activity or histamine levels. Additionally, a structured elimination diet, supervised by a healthcare professional, can help identify histamine intolerance. Once diagnosed, a tailored treatment plan can be developed to manage symptoms effectively. A good first step can be an online test for DAO deficiency for more information.

DAO deficiency treatment

It’s important to understand that there is no cure for DAO deficiency. However, symptoms can be managed through a combination of dietary modifications and enzyme supplementation. DAO deficiency treatment often involves taking DAO supplements before meals. These supplements provide the enzyme needed to break down histamine in the digestive tract, taking them can reduce symptom severity.*

Dietary adjustments are another cornerstone of treatment. This includes avoiding high-histamine foods and focusing on a low-histamine diet. While supplementation and diet can help reduce symptoms, they do not restore the body’s natural ability to produce DAO. As a result, DAO deficiency treatment is focused on ongoing management rather than a cure.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Beyond dietary changes, managing DAO deficiency involves identifying and addressing potential triggers such as stress, certain medications, or other underlying health conditions. A holistic approach, including gut health optimization through the supplementation of enzymes and stress-reducing practices like yoga or meditation, can further support symptom management.

Next steps

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.