Why ‘Healthy’ Foods Might Be Giving You Migraines and Rashes, All About Histamine Intolerance

What Is Histamine Intolerance?

Histamine intolerance (HIT) occurs when the body can’t break down histamine efficiently, leading to an excessive build-up. This can trigger symptoms similar to allergies, such as migraines, rashes, digestive problems, and fatigue.

Although organisations like the American Academy of Allergy and Immunology don’t officially recognise HIT, research suggests it affects about 1–3% of the global population. Because its symptoms overlap with food allergies and digestive disorders, it is often misdiagnosed.

Signs Of Histamine Intolerance

Histamine intolerance can cause a range of symptoms, as per Apollo Hospitals, which include digestive issues like bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Skin reactions, such as rashes, hives, and itching, are also common.

Many people experience headaches, migraines, sinus congestion, and fatigue. In some cases, histamine intolerance can lead to dizziness, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, anxiety, and changes in menstrual cycles.

Because these symptoms are similar to other conditions like food allergies or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

What Causes Histamine Intolerance?

According to research, one major cause of histamine intolerance is a deficiency in diamine oxidase (DAO), the enzyme that breaks down histamine in your digestive tract. When DAO levels are low, histamine builds up in your body. This deficiency can be influenced by gut health issues like leaky gut, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 

Certain medications, such as antibiotics, painkillers, and antidepressants, can also inhibit DAO activity. Genetic factors and hormonal imbalances, particularly fluctuations in oestrogen, may further contribute to histamine intolerance.

Foods Rich In Histamine

According to WebMD, any foods contain high levels of histamine or encourage the body to release more of it. Aged and fermented foods, such as wine, beer, aged cheeses, and sauerkraut, are common culprits.

Processed meats like salami, pepperoni, and sausages are also high in histamine. Certain vegetables, including tomatoes, brinjals, and spinach, can increase histamine levels. Tropical fruits like pineapple, bananas, papaya, and citrus fruits are other known triggers.

Seafood, especially mackerel, tuna, sardines, and shellfish, contains high amounts of histamine. Nuts such as walnuts, peanuts, and cashews, as well as chocolate, liquorice, and egg whites, can also contribute. Additives, preservatives, and food colourants may further exacerbate symptoms.

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Symptoms Of High Histamine Levels

Research in PubMed Central suggests high histamine levels can cause a range of symptoms throughout the body. These include digestive problems like, 

• Bloating 
• Diarrhoea 
• Stomach pain

And skin reactions like,

• Itching 
• Hives
• Rashes

Managing Histamine Intolerance

You can indulge in a low-histamine diet is a temporary eating plan that involves avoiding foods high in histamine for one or two weeks, according to nutritionist Ms. Manisha Chopra. People would learn whether or not they have a histamine allergy by adhering to this diet. Once the allotted time has passed, begin introducing the foods gradually while keeping an eye out for allergy signs like itching, hives, fever, etc.

This diet is used as a test to determine whether or not a person has histamine intolerance. Since many foods contain histamine and it can be difficult to limit or restrict them, this diet is not simple. Before beginning this regimen, a dietitian or nutritionist should be consulted.

Takeaway

Histamine intolerance can make seemingly healthy foods cause unpleasant symptoms like migraines, rashes, and digestive issues. By understanding what histamine is, recognising the signs of intolerance, and knowing which foods to avoid, you can take control of your symptoms. If you’re unsure or need guidance, seeking advice from a medical professional is always the best option.