Unraveling the Histamine Puzzle with Functional Medicine

IN THIS EPISODE:

Histamine Intolerance

This refers to a condition where individuals experience adverse reactions to histamines in the body. Histamine intolerance can manifest as symptoms such as migraines, nasal congestion, hives, insomnia, and difficulty tolerating fermented foods.

Histamine intolerance occurs when the body is unable to break down histamine efficiently due to a deficiency in enzymes like diamine oxidase (DAO) and histamine methyltransferase (HMNT).

Causes and Factors of Histamine Intolerance

There are several possibilities for the underlying causes of histamine intolerance. Genetic variants can affect the body’s capacity for breaking down histamine. Imbalances in gut microbes, leaky gut syndrome, and mast cell activation can contribute to increased histamine production. Chronic exposure to allergens or harmful chemicals can also lead to higher histamine levels in the body.

How To Manage Histamines

Taking antihistamines may not be the best solution. Several strategies can help manage histamine intolerance.

These strategies include addressing nutrient imbalances, such as ensuring sufficient intake of vitamin B6, vitamin C and quercetin, which support histamine regulation.

Certain supplements like DAO can aid in breaking down histamine. It may also be helpful to follow a low-histamine diet, avoiding high-histamine foods like aged cheeses, fermented foods, and leftovers.

Additionally, supporting gut health, managing stress, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can contribute to reducing histamine intolerance symptoms.

References:

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Ritamarie Loscalzo

Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo is a best-selling author and speaker known for her extensive knowledge, infectious energy, and inspirational message that encourages individuals to become their own best health advocate. She is an internationally recognized nutrition and health authority who specializes in using the wisdom of nature to restore hormone balance with a special emphasis on thyroid, adrenal and insulin imbalances. She founded the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology to empower health and nutrition practitioners to get to the root cause of health concerns by using functional assessments and natural therapeutics to balance the endocrine system, the body's master controller. Dr. Ritamarie is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with Certification in Acupuncture and is a Diplomat of the American Clinical Nutrition Board. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist with a Master’s in Human Nutrition, has completed a 2-year, 500-hour Herbal Medicine Program at David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies and has a master's degree in Computer Science, which contributes to her skills as an ace problem solver.