Histamine intolerance
April 14, 2024
There are many theories you may come across when searching for explanations for an upset stomach. A less common cause is histamine intolerance. Histamine is a natural substance involved in all allergic reactions and helps the immune system defend itself against foreign substances. When histamine is released, symptoms can arise that are sometimes mistaken for IBS.
Lack of enzymes, not allergies
Histamine intolerance is not classified as an allergy because it occurs when the body absorbs too much histamine from food. This is due to a deficiency, or reduced production, of the enzyme diamine oxidase, known as DAO, which breaks down histamine. It’s the same principle as lactose intolerance. The body is unable to handle and break down the histamine already present in food or triggered by certain foods. Only one to two percent of the world’s population completely lack the DAO enzyme, but more people may have temporarily reduced production, for example, when the gut is imbalanced.
Diffuse symptoms
Symptoms such as increased heart rate, palpitations, a drop in blood pressure after meals, headaches, migraines, digestive issues, eczema, itching, or redness can be signs of histamine intolerance. It is relatively difficult to get a diagnosis of histamine intolerance within the healthcare system, even though it is possible to measure your DAO levels. Therefore, the solution may be to personally try reducing the intake of histamine-releasing foods for a period of time.
Belly Balance digital treatment
Histamine in foods
Histamine is naturally present in certain foods. However, how food is handled also affects histamine levels. For example, long storage, high temperatures, and poor hygiene increase histamine in food.
Examples of histamine-rich foods:
- Various types of aged cheeses
- Mackerel
- Tuna
- Anchovies
- Sardines
- Red wine
- Aged meat products such as salami, sausages, and smoked ham
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Sauerkraut
- Soy sauce
There are also foods that seem to release histamine in the body without showing a classic IgE reaction:
- Milk
- Pineapple
- Citrus fruits
- Chocolate
- Fish
- Pork
- Strawberries
- Papaya
- Shellfish
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Egg whites
As you can see, MANY foods are restricted, but just because they are on the list doesn’t always mean they won’t work for you—it’s important to experiment. Also, remember that knowledge about histamine intolerance, its symptoms, and treatment is not yet fully evidence-based, so don’t hesitate to seek help from a dietitian if you’re unsure.
Histamine and FODMAP
Sofia Antonsson
Reg. Dietitian, Belly Balance
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