The Role of Diamine Oxidase in Histamine Intolerance: What You Need to Know
If you experience uncomfortable symptoms such as hives, headaches, or diarrhea after eating certain foods, you may be suffering from histamine intolerance,. This is a condition where the body is unable to break down histamine correctly. One of the key enzymes responsible for breaking down histamine is diamine oxidase (DAO).
In this article, we will explore how to increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body through natural means, supplements, stress reduction techniques, and addressing underlying medical conditions. By following these strategies, you can alleviate your histamine intolerance symptoms and improve your overall health.
What is Diamine Oxidase?
DAO is an enzyme that breaks down histamine in the body. The chemical compound histamine is produced naturally in the body but can also be found in many foods. When the body fails to break down histamine correctly, it can lead to histamine intolerance.
Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance
Histamine intolerance can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Hives
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Flushing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
Causes of Histamine Intolerance
There are several causes of histamine intolerance, including:
| Causes | Description |
| Low levels of DAO | Diamine oxidase (DAO) is an enzyme that plays a key role in breaking down histamine. When DAO levels are low, histamine intolerance may occur. |
| Genetics | Research suggests that certain genetic factors may increase the risk of histamine intolerance. |
| Certain medications | Some medications can interfere with DAO production or cause the release of histamine, leading to symptoms of histamine intolerance. |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | Conditions such as leaky gut syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis can impair the body’s ability to break down histamine. |
| Allergies | Allergies can trigger the release of histamine in the body, leading to symptoms of histamine intolerance. |
| Stress | Stress can reduce the production of DAO, making it more difficult for the body to break down histamine. |
| Hormonal imbalances | Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy, can increase the risk of histamine intolerance. |
Ways to Increase Diamine Oxidase Level
Here are some ways to increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body:
1. Eat Foods That Are High in DAO
Foods that are high in DAO can help increase the level of the enzyme in your body. Some examples of foods that are high in DAO include:
- Beef
- Pork
- Chicken
- Fish
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Avocado
- Spinach
- Broccoli
2. Take DAO Supplements
DAO supplements can also help increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body. You can get these supplements over-the-counter and can be taken before meals to help break down histamine.
3. Reduce Your Intake of Histamine-Rich Foods
Reducing your intake of histamine-rich foods can also help increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body. These include:
- Fermented foods (e.g., sauerkraut, kimchi)
- Aged cheeses
- Smoked meats
- Shellfish
- Nuts
- Chocolate
- Vinegar
- Citrus fruits
4. Manage Stress
Stress can also contribute to histamine intolerance by reducing the production of DAO. Managing stress through techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body.
5. Address Underlying Medical Conditions
Underlying medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders or hormonal imbalances, can also contribute to histamine intolerance. Addressing these conditions through proper medical treatment can help increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body.
Testing for Histamine Intolerance
It is important to get tested if you suspect that you have histamine intolerance. Testing helps confirm a diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Here are some common tests used to diagnose histamine intolerance:
| Test | Description |
| Blood tests | Blood tests can measure the levels of DAO and histamine in the body. Low levels of DAO and high levels of histamine may indicate histamine intolerance. |
| Elimination diet | An elimination diet involves removing foods that are high in histamine or that cause histamine release from the diet for a period of time. If symptoms improve during this time, it may suggest histamine intolerance. |
| Skin prick test | A skin prick test involves exposing the skin to small amounts of histamine or other allergens to see if an allergic reaction occurs. This test can help rule out other potential causes of symptoms. |
| Challenge test | A challenge test involves consuming a small amount of histamine under medical supervision to see if symptoms develop. This test can help confirm a diagnosis of histamine intolerance. |
Conclusion
Histamine intolerance can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, but increasing the level of diamine oxidase in your body can help alleviate these symptoms. Eating DAO-riched foods, taking DAO supplements, reducing your intake of foods high in histamine, managing stress, and addressing underlying medical conditions can help increase the level of diamine oxidase in your body and improve your overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is histamine intolerance?
Histamine intolerance is a condition where the body is unable to break down histamine correctly, leading to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. The most common symptoms of histamine intolerance include migraines, digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, flushed skin, hives or an itchy skin rash, worsening eczema, or a condition that causes itchy and flaky rashes, congested, runny, or itchy nose, and red, itchy, or watery eyes.
Q2: Can DAO supplements be taken with other medications?
We recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements, especially if you are currently taking other medications. Some medications can interfere with DAO production or cause the release of histamine which could potentially worsen symptoms.
Q3: How long does it take to see results from increasing DAO levels?
The amount of time it takes to see results from increasing DAO levels varies from person to person. Some people may see results in a week, while others may need a few months to feel relief from their symptoms
Q4: Are there any side effects of taking DAO supplements?
Some people experience minor side effects such as stomach upset or diarrhea when taking DAO supplements, but these side effects are typically mild and tem
