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Introduction

Treating histamine intolerance naturally – Histamine intolerance is a complex metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to break down excess histamine. This can lead to a variety of symptoms that significantly affect daily life. But there is hope: if you want to treat your histamine intolerance naturally, you can achieve significant improvements through a targeted diet, the use of vitamins and medicinal plants as well as holistic approaches. In this article, you will find out how to identify the causes and symptoms and how to use natural methods to combat the symptoms.

Treating histamine intolerance naturally What is histamine?

Histamine is a biogenic amine that is found in the body as a messenger substance and in many foods. It fulfills vital functions:

  • Immune system: Histamine is released during inflammation and activates defense cells.
  • Digestion: It stimulates the production of stomach acid.
  • Nervous system: Histamine regulates the sleep-wake rhythm and the sensation of pain.

A healthy body can easily break down histamine. In the case of histamine intolerance, however, an imbalance occurs that triggers symptoms. The question of how histamine intolerance can be treated naturally is taking center stage.

Recognizing the causes of histamine intolerance

The causes of histamine intolerance are varied and often complex. The most important causes are

  • Deficiency of diamine oxidase (DAO): This enzyme is responsible for the breakdown of histamine in the intestine. A deficiency means that histamine is not broken down sufficiently.
  • Chronic diseases: Intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome or coeliac disease impair DAO production.
  • Medication: Medications such as painkillers, antibiotics and antidepressants can inhibit DAO activity or promote histamine release.
  • Hormonal fluctuations: Menstruation, pregnancy and menopause can affect histamine processing.
  • Unhealthy intestinal flora: A disturbed microbiota in the intestine can impair the breakdown of histamine.

If you want to treat histamine intolerance naturally, you should first find out the individual causes so that you can take targeted measures.

Understanding the symptoms of histamine intolerance

The symptoms of histamine intolerance can be very varied and often affect several body systems. The most common complaints are

Digestive problems

  • abdominal pain
  • flatulence
  • diarrhea
  • heartburn

skin reactions

  • itching
  • redness
  • hives
  • Swelling

Neurological symptoms

  • headache
  • migraine
  • dizziness
  • Irritability

Cardiovascular complaints

  • palpitations
  • drop or rise in blood pressure
  • hot flushes

Respiratory problems

  • stuffy nose
  • shortness of breath
  • asthma-like symptoms

The aim is to alleviate these symptoms through a conscious lifestyle. In order to treat histamine intolerance naturally, a comprehensive understanding of these symptoms is required.

Treating histamine intolerance naturally through diet

Diet plays a central role in the natural treatment of histamine intolerance. Avoiding histamine-rich and histamine-releasing foods is essential.

Foods that should be avoided

  • Fish and seafood: mature fish such as tuna, mackerel and anchovies as well as smoked salmon.
  • Meat products: Smoked, cured or fermented meats such as salami, ham and bacon.
  • Dairy products: Matured cheese such as parmesan, camembert and blue cheese.
  • Fermented products: Sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, soy sauce and miso.
  • Alcohol: especially red wine, sparkling wine, beer and champagne.
  • Fruit: citrus fruits, strawberries, pineapple, bananas and avocados.
  • Nuts: Walnuts, cashews and peanuts.

Allowed foods

  • Fresh meat: Chicken, turkey, pork and beef, if freshly processed.
  • Fresh fish: species such as cod, zander and sole.
  • Vegetables: zucchinis, pumpkin, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower and green beans.
  • Fruit: apples, pears, blueberries, melons and currants.
  • Cereals: rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth and oats.
  • Herbs and spices: Fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, basil, thyme.
  • Drinks: Still water and unsweetened herbal teas such as fennel, camomile or lemon balm tea.

A conscious diet is the cornerstone for the natural treatment of histamine intolerance.

Treating histamine intolerance naturally

Vitamins and minerals

Some nutrients can help to regulate histamine levels in the body:

  • Vitamin C: Breaks down histamine and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Found in abundance in peppers, rosehips and broccoli.
  • Vitamin B6: Supports the activity of the DAO. Contained in poultry, potatoes and wholemeal products.
  • Zinc: Stabilizes the mast cells and reduces the release of histamine. Found in pumpkin seeds, lentils and oatmeal.

Medicinal plants and herbs

Medicinal plants play an important role in the natural treatment of histamine intolerance:

  • Quercetin: Flavonoid with antihistamine effect, found in onions, capers and apples.
  • Nettle: Reduces the release of histamine and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Camomile: Calms the stomach and alleviates allergic reactions.
  • Curcumin: Active ingredient from turmeric, has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Probiotics

A healthy intestinal flora is important for effectively breaking down histamine. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium infantis can help to promote gut health and treat histamine intolerance naturally.

Treating histamine intolerance naturally with alternative healing methods

In addition to diet and supplements, alternative healing methods can also help:

Ayurveda

Ayurvedic medicine relies on herbs such as amalaki (Indian gooseberry) and ashwagandha to strengthen digestion and detoxify the body.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

TCM uses medicinal plants such as huang qi (astragalus) and reishi mushrooms to strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Anthroposophic medicine

Anthroposophic medicine uses plants such as yarrow, lemon balm and St. John’s wort to regulate digestion and strengthen the body.

Tips for treating histamine intolerance naturally

In addition to diet and medication, lifestyle changes also play a role:

  • Stress management: stress can promote the release of histamine. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises can help.
  • Regular exercise: Moderate exercise promotes blood circulation and helps to break down inflammatory substances.
  • Sleep: Sufficient and restful sleep strengthens the immune system and improves enzyme activity.
  • Keep a diary: A food diary helps to identify trigger foods and specifically avoid them.

Conclusion: Treating histamine intolerance naturally for a better life

Treating histamine intolerance naturally requires a conscious approach tailored to the individual needs of those affected. With a low-histamine diet, the targeted use of vitamins and medicinal plants and consideration of alternative healing methods, sufferers can effectively alleviate their symptoms. The combination of diet, lifestyle changes and naturopathy makes it possible to sustainably improve quality of life and successfully overcome the challenges of histamine intolerance.

Sources and further information:

Published on: 1. January 2025

Daniel

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