Histamine Intolerance
Histamine intolerance describes a physical intolerance to the tissue hormone histamine, which is supplied through food. The reason for the intolerance is the reduced formation of the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO) in the small intestine, as a result of which the histamine supplied is only broken down to a reduced extent.
Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance
The slower breakdown of histamine results in high concentrations of histamine in the blood, which leads to typical symptoms of histamine intolerance:
- Wheals on the skin (urticaria) and sudden reddening of the skin after eating
- Itching
- Gastrointestinal complaints
- Headaches and migraines
- Low blood pressure, dizziness and tiredness
- Chronic rhinitis and reddened eyes
- Sleep disorders
Causes of Histamine Intolerance
There are many causes of histamine intolerance.
For example, an imbalance in the intestinal environment can be the cause of histamine intolerance, as incorrect colonization can have a negative impact on the function of the intestine.
However, a lack of vitamins, minerals and trace elements can also impair the function of the DAO enzyme.
In order to function properly, the DAO needs vitamin B6, zinc and copper. These nutrients are increasingly consumed in HPU, which is why this clinical picture should also be taken into consideration in histamine intolerance.
If histamine intolerance is suspected, it is crucial to first determine the underlying cause. This forms the basis for an individualised, holistic medical treatment approach that focuses on comprehensive intestinal flora diagnostics. This diagnosis enables serious disorders such as increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) or incorrect colonisation (SIBO) to be detected and treated at an early stage in order to prevent potential consequential damage.
Histamine-containing Foods
If you suffer from a histamine intolerance, it is important to avoid foods containing histamine in addition to an individually planned therapy.
Histamine is contained in numerous foods, including, for example :
- Tomatoes and tomato-based foods
- Fermented and pickled products such as fermented cabbage or pickled gherkins
- Smoked foods such as smoked salmon or smoked sausages
- Aged cheese
- Red wine and champagne
- Cacao
Dr. med. Karsten Ostermann M.A.
In the case of histamine intolerance, an integrative, holistic approach can help to get the symptoms under control in the long term. We will be happy to help you.
Further information
The information listed contains relevant topics and serves to improve understanding.