Mcas diet
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a complex condition in which mast cells, a type of white blood cell, become overly active and release excessive amounts of chemicals, such as histamine, this makes a mcas diet very important for people suffering from it. These chemicals are crucial for immune responses, but in MCAS, their release can lead to a range of symptoms including hives, digestive discomfort, headaches, and more severe reactions. Due to the broad range of symptoms that overlap with other conditions, MCAS can be challenging to diagnose and manage effectively.
Dietary management in MCAS
It is essential to adjust your diet if you want to manage MCAS symptoms, as certain foods can trigger mast cell activation or elevate histamine levels in the body. By identifying and avoiding dietary triggers, individuals with MCAS can potentially reduce symptom severity.
Low histamine diet for MCAS
Histamine plays a central role in many of the symptoms associated with MCAS. As a naturally occurring compound found in certain foods, histamine can trigger allergic reactions when not effectively broken down by the body, especially in individuals with high histamine sensitivity. This response can exacerbate the symptoms of MCAS, making it crucial to manage histamine levels through diet.
Benefits of a low histamine diet
A low histamine diet focuses on reducing the intake of foods that either contain histamine or trigger its release in the body. By avoiding high-histamine foods, individuals with MCAS may experience fewer or less intense symptoms, creating a pathway to improved health. This dietary approach is a foundational strategy in MCAS management, offering a controlled means of reducing triggers without medication reliance.
MCAS diet list
MCAS-friendly foods
In a low histamine diet, fresh, unprocessed foods are generally safer options. This includes:
- Freshly cooked meats and fish (avoiding leftovers)
- Fresh fruits (excluding high-histamine options like strawberries and avocados)
- Fresh vegetables (excluding tomatoes, spinach, and eggplants)
- Non-fermented grains such as rice and oats
These foods are typically well-tolerated and can provide essential nutrients without significantly raising histamine levels in the body.
Foods to avoid
High-histamine foods can exacerbate MCAS symptoms and should generally be avoided. Common triggers include:
- Aged or fermented foods like cheese, yogurt, and processed meats
- Certain seafood, especially canned or smoked fish
- Fermented beverages like alcohol
- Leftover or pre-cooked meats and fish, as histamine levels increase with time
Individualized dietary adjustments
While general guidelines can be helpful, individual tolerance varies, making it essential to personalize dietary adjustments. Working with a healthcare provider or dietitian can assist in identifying specific triggers and optimizing dietary choices. Contact one of our specialized dietitians for free advice.
Sample meal ideas for a low histamine diet for MCAS
- Breakfast: Oatmeal made with water or coconut milk, topped with fresh apples or blueberries
- Lunch: Grilled chicken with steamed zucchini and white rice
- Dinner: Freshly cooked salmon (not smoked or canned) with a side of roasted carrots and quinoa
Tips for reducing histamine buildup in food
Preparing and storing food correctly is essential to prevent histamine accumulation. Freezing leftovers immediately after cooking and avoiding aged or overly ripe produce can help maintain a low histamine diet.
Positive outcomes of an MCAS-Specific diet
Following a low histamine diet can lead to significant symptom reduction, improved energy levels, and a better quality of life for individuals with MCAS. By minimizing exposure to dietary triggers, many find that they experience fewer flare-ups, making daily management easier and more predictable.
Challenges to consider
The MCAS diet can be restrictive, and finding safe foods might initially feel overwhelming. Limited food choices, the need for meal planning, and the avoidance of commonly enjoyed foods can pose challenges. However, with careful planning, support, and knowledge of histamine-friendly options, many individuals successfully adapt to this dietary lifestyle, reaping the long-term benefits of reduced symptoms.
You can read more about the topic in our knowledge bank or you can contact one of our dieticians for personalized advice. If you don’t know where your symptoms 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.