How are low histamine levels diagnosed and treated?

 

What is low histamine levels?

Low histamine levels refer to a condition where the concentration of histamine in the body is lower than normal. Histamine is a chemical compound produced by the body as part of the immune response and plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. It is involved in regulating stomach acid, neurotransmission, and the immune system's response to allergens and pathogens.

Symptoms of Low Histamine Levels

Some common symptoms of low histamine levels include:

Digestive issues: Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, stomach cramps, and indigestion. Histamine regulates the production of stomach acid and the release of enzymes required for digestion, so low levels can disrupt these processes.

Headaches and migraines: Histamine plays a role in regulating blood vessel dilation and constriction in the brain. Low levels can cause blood vessels to constrict excessively, leading to headaches and migraines.

Skin problems: Low histamine levels can trigger skin conditions such as hives, eczema, and itching. This is due to histamine's involvement in the immune response and its ability to induce inflammation and itchiness.

Fatigue and lethargy: Histamine is involved in the regulation of wakefulness and sleep cycles. Low levels can result in excessive tiredness and a feeling of being constantly fatigued.

Anxiety and mood disturbances: Histamine plays a role in the central nervous system as a neurotransmitter. Low histamine levels can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.

Dizziness and lightheadedness: Histamine is essential for maintaining blood pressure and blood vessel dilation. Low levels can cause fluctuations in blood pressure, leading to feelings of dizziness and lightheadedness.

Nasal congestion and sinus issues: Histamine is released in response to allergens and irritants, causing nasal congestion and inflammation in the sinuses. Low histamine levels can reduce these responses, leading to chronic nasal congestion and sinus issues.

Menstrual irregularities: Histamine plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle and hormonal balance. Low levels can lead to irregular periods and exacerbate premenstrual symptoms.

Joint pain and inflammation: Histamine is involved in the inflammatory response, and low levels can result in increased joint pain and inflammation.

Allergies and sensitivities: Surprisingly, both high and low histamine levels can lead to allergy-like symptoms. In cases of low histamine levels, the body may become more sensitive to external allergens and environmental triggers.

Causes of Low Histamine Levels:

Several factors can contribute to low histamine levels or histamine intolerance:

Histamine-N-Methyltransferase (HNMT) enzyme deficiency: HNMT is responsible for breaking down histamine in the body. A deficiency in this enzyme can lead to impaired histamine breakdown and result in histamine intolerance.

Diamine Oxidase (DAO) deficiency: DAO is the enzyme primarily responsible for breaking down histamine from ingested foods. Deficiency in DAO can lead to the accumulation of histamine, especially after consuming histamine-rich foods.

Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions such as leaky gut syndrome or inflammatory bowel diseases can interfere with the normal breakdown and absorption of histamine in the gut.

Certain medications: Some medications can inhibit DAO activity or interfere with histamine metabolism, leading to  histamine intolerance.

Dietary factors: Consuming high amounts of histamine-rich foods or foods that block DAO can contribute to histamine intolerance.

Dietary Therapy for Low Histamine Levels:

Managing histamine intolerance often involves following a low-histamine diet to reduce symptoms. The primary goal is to limit the intake of histamine-rich foods and foods that may trigger histamine release. Some dietary guidelines for managing low histamine levels include:

Avoiding histamine-rich foods: Foods that are aged, fermented, or preserved tend to be high in histamine. Examples include aged fermented foods, meats, canned fish, and certain alcoholic beverages like wine and beer.

Limiting histamine-releasing foods: Some foods can trigger the release of histamine from mast cells in the body. These foods include strawberries, tomatoes, eggplant, spinach, and chocolate.

Choosing fresh foods: Opt for fresh foods instead of leftovers or aged foods, as fresh foods typically have lower histamine levels.

Avoiding histamine liberators: Certain foods contain compounds that can inhibit DAO and release histamine. Examples include alcohol, black tea, green tea, and some spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Cooking methods: Steaming and boiling foods can help reduce histamine levels compared to grilling, smoking, or fermenting.

Food storage: Properly storing foods in the refrigerator or freezer can help prevent the buildup of histamine.

Treatment for Low Histamine Levels:

The treatment for low histamine levels or histamine intolerance involves a multi-faceted approach to address the underlying causes and manage symptoms effectively:

Identifying and avoiding triggers: Working with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to identify histamine-rich foods and individual triggers is crucial. Keeping a food diary can help track symptom flare-ups and pinpoint potential triggers.

Supplementing with DAO: In cases of DAO deficiency, enzyme supplements containing DAO can be taken before meals to aid in the breakdown of histamine from ingested foods.

Balancing gut health: Addressing gastrointestinal issues, such as leaky gut or dysbiosis, can improve the body's ability to break down and eliminate histamine.

Addressing underlying conditions: If histamine intolerance is a symptom of an underlying condition, such as HNMT deficiency or inflammatory bowel disease, treating the primary condition can help alleviate histamine intolerance.

Probiotics: Some probiotics may help break down histamine in the gut and support digestive health. However, individual responses to probiotics can vary, so consulting with a healthcare professional is essential.

Medications: In some cases, antihistamines may be prescribed to manage symptoms temporarily. However, this is not a long-term solution and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle modifications: Reducing stress, getting regular exercise, and improving sleep quality can positively impact histamine levels and overall well-being.

Conclusion:

Low histamine levels or histamine intolerance can lead to a range of uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms. It's essential to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to identify triggers, follow a low-histamine diet, and address any underlying issues. Dietary therapy, along with appropriate treatment strategies, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with histamine intolerance, allowing them to better manage their symptoms and lead a more comfortable and balanced life.

1. What are the symptoms of low histamine levels?

2. What are the common causes of low histamine levels in the body?

3. How can low histamine levels impact overall health and wellbeing?

4. What types of foods or lifestyle changes can help raise histamine levels?

5. How are low histamine levels diagnosed and treated?