It was another taco night at our home, with the kitchen filled with taco shells, chips, and a family favorite: guacamole. Once the kids settled in, I topped my nachos with guacamole and dug in. Just minutes later, I felt a heavy, nauseous sensation in my stomach. I brushed it off as a one-time occurrence, but it happened again the following week. (Yes, taco nights are a regular thing for us.)
You might have noticed peculiar symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, heartburn, or an itchy mouth after meals. Does your nose get stuffy while enjoying a glass of wine? Ever felt nauseous after a salad or a bowl of pasta with tomato sauce? Maybe you’ve even experienced increased anxiety after indulging in steak or a slice of chocolate cake? I always thought comfort foods were meant to make us feel good, not unwell. There are many different symptoms related to histamine intolerance.
What Is Histamine Intolerance?
Histamine intolerance occurs when there’s an imbalance between accumulated histamine and the body’s ability to break it down. Histamine, which we get from food, is stored in nearly every tissue of the body and plays a crucial role in keeping our organs functioning properly.
While exact statistics are hard to come by, it’s believed that about 1-3% of the population may have histamine intolerance, a number that could rise as awareness and diagnostic tools improve.
Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance
When histamine levels become unbalanced, individuals may experience various symptoms, some of which can be quite severe. Common reactions include hives, flushed skin, red eyes, facial swelling, runny nose, and even asthma attacks. Other symptoms can include a drop in blood pressure, heart palpitations, and anxiety. Gastrointestinal issues like bloating, stomach pain, constipation, and diarrhea are also prevalent. Personally, I’ve dealt with ringing in my ears, dizziness, anxiety, and a racing heart.
Why Do Some People Develop Histamine Intolerance?
There are several factors that may lead to the development of histamine intolerance. Certain medications can hinder the enzyme DAO (diamine oxidase), which is responsible for breaking down histamine in the digestive tract. This includes antidepressants, pain relievers, and antibiotics. Gastrointestinal issues, such as leaky gut syndrome or bacterial overgrowth, can also prevent DAO from functioning effectively. Additionally, consuming histamine-rich foods, foods that block DAO, and those that trigger histamine release can exacerbate the problem. Genetics may also play a role, as well as liver conditions, deficiencies in vitamins and minerals (like B-6, C, zinc, or copper), chronic stress, injuries, and even alcohol consumption.
How Is Histamine Intolerance Diagnosed?
Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward blood test or definitive symptoms for diagnosing histamine intolerance. The symptoms can mimic other conditions, making it tricky. Some individuals have been diagnosed by allergists, while others rely on functional medicine doctors or dietitians. Many discover their intolerance by maintaining a detailed food diary and undergoing an elimination diet. I know several people who identified their histamine intolerance after spending significant amounts on medical consultations and tests.
Managing Histamine Intolerance
Managing this condition can be complex. A low-histamine diet can be quite limiting. Is it realistic to avoid wine, chocolate, grilled foods, strawberries, and cheese indefinitely? For many, that’s not practical. In the histamine intolerance community, some individuals have opted for a lower-histamine diet, taken DAO supplements, and monitored their overall histamine intake to prevent overload. Others seek guidance from knowledgeable allergists or dietitians. Given that research is ongoing, there’s no universal solution.
My own histamine intolerance was discovered quite by chance. While working with a registered dietitian for another health issue, we reviewed my food and symptom journal. We noticed that on days when I felt particularly unwell, I had consumed high-histamine foods like nuts, grilled items, and strawberry smoothies. Once I experimented with a low-histamine diet, my symptoms improved. After recognizing the pattern, I began a tailored eating plan and incorporated supplements to assist my body in processing histamines.
I’m grateful to have pinpointed the cause of my discomfort, which had left me bedridden and sleepless. However, the journey has been challenging. Many people don’t understand histamine intolerance or doubt its legitimacy. For me, the proof lies in the non-dairy pudding. I’m thankful I advocated for myself, listened to my body, and am on the path to feeling better, stronger, and less sick.
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Summary:
Histamine intolerance can lead to various unpleasant symptoms after eating, such as nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues. The condition arises from an imbalance in the body’s ability to break down histamine, often exacerbated by certain foods, medications, and gastrointestinal problems. Diagnosing histamine intolerance can be challenging, but many find relief through dietary adjustments and supplements. Personal experiences highlight the importance of self-advocacy in managing health issues.
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