Not too different from lactose intolerance, which you’re probably familiar with. Some people don’t produce the lactase enzyme to break down lactose, the protein found in milk. Likewise, some people don’t have enough of the enzyme DAO to break down histamine.
People with Histamine Intolerance develop symptoms between 2 and 24 hours after exposure to foods rich in histamine.
Diseases like colitis, crohn’s, celiac, and lactose intolerance can also damage the intestines enough to reduce the activity of DAO. When this happens, we call it secondary Histamine Intolerance.
What is Histamine?
Histamine is a naturally occurring compound found in:
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Certain foods (especially aged, fermented, or cured items)
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Your own body (produced by immune cells called mast cells)
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Gut bacteria (which can produce histamine during digestion)
Common Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance:
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Headaches or migraines
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Nasal congestion or sinus issues
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Hives, flushing, or skin rashes
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Fatigue or insomnia
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Digestive issues (bloating, diarrhea, nausea)
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Irregular menstrual cycles or worsened PMS
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Anxiety, dizziness, or heart palpitations
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Food sensitivities or worsening of allergies
Symptoms are diverse and confusing.
