We often think of allergies when we think of histamine. Runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, congestion and sneezing, particularly at this time of year.

What you may not know is that we have histamine receptors all throughout our bodies, and histamine impacts more than just those typical allergy symptoms. In fact, histamine might be the culprit behind some of the most common and bothersome gastrointestinal symptoms.

Histamine is a molecule our body synthesizes from an amino acid and is stored in our body, mostly in immune cells known mast cells. When triggered, histamine is released and acts on receptors that are found all throughout the body (not just in the nasal cavity). Histamine of course plays a role in regulating allergic response but also acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, plays a role in stomach acid secretion, impacts blood vessels and muscle contraction and our hormone levels.

Can you develop Histamine Intolerance?

Once it’s released into the blood stream, it begins to act on those receptors and is broken down mainly by diamine oxidase (DAO) which is found most abundantly in the intestinal tract. When we have less of this enzyme or we ingest things that impact its ability to function we get higher levels of histamine, and therefore more symptoms. We can also see higher levels of histamine with more exposure to triggers, such as allergens, and it can be in the foods we eat. When we see increased availability of histamine or impaired degradation, we can develop what is known as histamine intolerance.

In studies looking at histamine intolerance the most commonly reported, and most severe symptom is bloating – something that is experienced so commonly by women. Other common symptoms experienced in those with histamine intolerance are constipation or diarrhea, fullness after meals and abdominal pain. These symptoms are all very non-specific and often are diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome if nothing else is found. In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, histamine intolerance has been linked to skin conditions such as eczema, headaches, and even painful periods!

Considering histamine’s role in these common symptoms broadens available treatment options. This could include supplements that help to stabilize mast cells to reduce the release of histamine and ones to help DAO work more effectively. Our diet also plays a big role in histamine secretion and breakdown. Foods such as aged-cheeses and spinach are high in histamine and will increase the levels in the body, where as things like alcohol and green tea can impair DAO and slow histamine breakdown. These are things that can be modified to impact symptoms.

Looking into histamine provides an opportunity to look at these gastrointestinal symptoms from a fresh angle and provides treatment opportunities for those who have been refractory to treatment of their gastrointestinal symptoms thus far.

Resources:

PMID: 31807350

PMID: 17490952

PMID: 30836736