If you flush after a glass of wine, feel itchy from certain foods, or get headaches after eating leftovers, histamine intolerance might be the reason.
What Is Histamine Intolerance?
Histamine is a natural chemical involved in immune response. But when your body can’t break it down properly—often due to low levels of the enzyme DAO—it builds up and causes symptoms.
Signs of Histamine Overload
- Itchy skin or hives
- Flushing after alcohol or fermented foods
- Congestion or post-nasal drip
- Headaches or migraines
- Stomach issues like nausea or cramps
- Anxiety or irritability
Triggers to Watch
- Wine and beer
- Aged cheeses, cured meats
- Vinegar, soy sauce, leftovers
- Tomatoes, eggplants, spinach, and avocados
These foods naturally contain or release histamine.
Why It’s Often Missed
Histamine intolerance isn’t an allergy—it’s a processing issue. That makes it hard to diagnose. And because symptoms overlap with allergies, perimenopause, and autoimmune disorders, it’s often misread.
What You Can Do
- Try a low-histamine diet for 2–4 weeks
- Add DAO-supporting nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, and B6
- Look for DAO enzyme supplements before high-histamine meals
- Address gut health (many with histamine issues also have SIBO or leaky gut)
Talk to Your Doc
You may need testing for DAO levels or a guided elimination plan with a functional medicine provider. Relief is possible—you just need the right roadmap.
