healing ways Too Much Histamine NATURAL SOLUTIONS TO AN
EXCESSIVE ALLERGIC RESPONSE by Carrie Jackson
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istamine is an organic chemical produced by the body as a protection from allergens. It is also found in some of the foods we consume. While certain levels of this
compound are considered normal and healthy, an overabundance can cause troublesome symptoms—from runny noses and hives to intestinal discomfort and brain fog. Histamine intolerance, as this condition is called, is oſten caused by food triggers or the body’s inability to break down the excess histamine. Over-the-counter antihistamines promise short-term symptom relief but may have unappealing side effects. Long-term, drug-free resolution is possible with a little sleuthing and holistic lifestyle adaptations.
A WIDE ARRAY OF SYMPTOMS “Histamine intolerance can affect every area of the body, including the brain. Te inflammation created by excess histamine oſten leads to brain fog and other neurological symptoms,” says Michael Ruscio, a naturopathic practitioner, doctor of chiropractic, clinical researcher and author of Healthy Gut, Healthy You.
Central Florida
www.NACFL.com
Symptoms of histamine intolerance oſten start in the intestinal
tract with diarrhea and bloating and contribute to leaky gut. “If the sensitive gut lining is damaged, histamine can permeate to other areas of the body and lead to redness, swelling and itchiness, as well as respiratory issues, joint pain and anxiety. Tese seemingly unrelated symptoms can all have the same underlying cause, and patients, as well as many doctors, are not aware of these connections,” says Arti Chandra, a Seattle-based family practice physician who is certified in functional medicine and serves as faculty at the Institute for Functional Medicine.
KNOWING THE TRIGGERS “Mast cells, a type of white blood cell, are responsible for releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation. A histamine intolerance or exposure to high- histamine foods can lead to mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), where they release excess amounts into the body. Typically, enzymes will break down the histamine so that
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