Histamine intolerance test

Histamine intolerance test

If you frequently experience unexplained symptoms such as headaches, skin rashes, digestive discomfort, or nasal congestion, you may be dealing with histamine intolerance. A histamine intolerance test is an essential step in identifying whether your symptoms are caused by an inability to break down histamine effectively. By pinpointing the underlying issue, you can adopt targeted strategies to manage your condition.

What is a histamine intolerance test?

A histamine intolerance test evaluates your body’s ability to metabolize histamine, a compound naturally present in certain foods and produced by the body during immune responses. For individuals with histamine intolerance, an imbalance occurs when histamine levels exceed the body’s ability to break it down. This condition often results from a deficiency in the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), which is responsible for degrading histamine in the digestive system.

Testing options vary, with the most common being a histamine level test or a histamine sensitivity test. These diagnostic tools measure histamine concentration in the blood or assess the activity of the DAO enzyme, helping to determine if histamine intolerance is the root cause of your symptoms. Before you start a complicated histamine test like this, you can do an online histamine questionnaire. These can give you fast insights if histamine might form a trouble for you!

Types of histamine intolerance tests

1. Histamine intolerance blood test
   A histamine intolerance blood test is one of the most precise methods for identifying histamine-related issues. This test measures histamine levels in your blood and evaluates DAO enzyme activity. Low DAO levels or elevated histamine concentrations often point to histamine intolerance.
2. Histamine sensitivity test
   A histamine sensitivity test focuses on identifying your body’s reaction to histamine. This may involve dietary challenges or monitoring your response to histamine-rich foods. While less precise than blood tests, it provides valuable insights into potential triggers and sensitivities.
3. Histamine level test
   A histamine level test measures the concentration of histamine in your bloodstream. Elevated levels, particularly in combination with symptoms, can confirm the diagnosis of histamine intolerance. This test is often performed alongside a DAO enzyme activity test for a comprehensive evaluation.

When to consider a histamine intolerance test

If you suspect histamine intolerance, a test is recommended if you experience any of the following symptoms after consuming histamine-rich foods:

• Skin issues such as itching or hives
• Migraines or chronic headaches
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating and diarrhea
• Nasal congestion or breathing difficulties

These symptoms often mimic allergies, making a histamine intolerance test critical for distinguishing between the two conditions.

Preparing for a histamine intolerance test

Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate testing method for your situation. Blood tests often require fasting and avoidance of certain medications that could interfere with results. Discuss your dietary habits, symptoms, and medical history to ensure accurate diagnosis.

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.