Histamine intolerance is an often overlooked, but increasingly recognized, cause of various health problems. Those affected experience symptoms such as headaches, skin rashes, digestive problems, or circulatory problems after consuming histamine-rich foods. But what exactly is histamine intolerance, and what role does the microbiome play in this context? In this article, we take a detailed look at the causes, symptoms, and the influence of the gut flora on this metabolic disorder.
What is histamine?
Histamine is a biogenic amine found in many foods and plays a central role in the immune system, gastric acid production, and neurotransmitter regulation. It is either produced by the body itself or absorbed through food. Histamine plays a key role in inflammatory processes by dilating blood vessels and increasing the permeability of cell walls to transport immune cells more quickly to the site of infection or injury. It also influences the central nervous system and contributes to the regulation of sleep-wake cycles. Another important aspect is its function in the production of gastric acid, which is essential for efficient digestion.
What is histamine intolerance?
Histamine intolerance occurs when the body is unable to effectively break down excess histamine. In a healthy organism, this breakdown occurs through the enzymes diamine oxidase (DAO) in the intestine and histamine N-methyltransferase (HNMT) in other tissues. If these enzymes are insufficiently active, histamine accumulates in the body and can cause various symptoms. The causes of these enzyme deficiencies are varied and can be genetic or influenced by external factors such as medications, stress, or an imbalanced intestinal flora.
The role of the microbiome in histamine intolerance
The microbiome, i.e. the totality of all microorganisms in the intestine, plays a key role in histamine metabolism. A healthy intestine contains bacterial strains that can either break down histamine or produce it. If this balance is disrupted, an overproduction of histamine can occur, while at the same time the body's ability to break it down is reduced. Certain pathogenic bacteria such as Morganella morganii , Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli can produce large amounts of histamine and thus intensify the symptoms of histamine intolerance. On the other hand, there are also bacterial strains such as Bifidobacterium infantis , Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus that can help reduce histamine in the intestine. A healthy intestine with an intact barrier function also ensures that excess histamine does not enter the bloodstream uncontrollably.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosing histamine intolerance is often challenging because the symptoms are so diverse and can overlap with other intolerances or allergies. Diagnosis is usually made through an elimination diet, in which histamine-rich foods are avoided for a certain period of time and the body's reaction is observed. A blood test to measure DAO activity may also be performed. A low-histamine diet is the most important measure to alleviate symptoms. Foods such as aged cheese, sausages, fermented products, and alcohol should be avoided because they contain particularly high levels of histamine. Certain fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, strawberries, and citrus fruits, can also promote histamine release in the body. In addition to dietary adjustments, the targeted use of probiotics, which contain histamine-degrading bacteria, can help restore balance in the intestines. Furthermore, DAO supplements can help reduce the absorption of histamine from food.
Conclusion
Histamine intolerance is a complex metabolic disorder influenced by many factors. In addition to genetic predisposition, the microbiome plays a crucial role in the breakdown and regulation of histamine. A healthy intestinal flora can help break down excess histamine and alleviate the symptoms of histamine intolerance. Through a healthy diet, the use of probiotics, and strengthening the intestinal barrier, those affected can significantly improve their quality of life. Since symptoms and causes can vary greatly from person to person, it is advisable to consult a doctor or nutritionist to find a solution tailored to your individual needs.
