Supplements to Effectively Manage Histamine Intolerance and Alleviate Symptoms

Histamine intolerance can be a perplexing and frustrating condition, causing symptoms ranging from headaches to digestive issues, but it doesn’t have to be. However, managing the condition is possible with the right steps, including the use of supplements that support histamine degradation and have mast cell-stabilizing effects, while working to identify the underlying causes of your health issues.

What is histamine intolerance?

Histamine intolerance occurs when there is an imbalance between the amount of histamine ingested or produced and the body’s ability to break it down. This can result in a wide range of symptoms, from gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and postprandial fullness to extraintestinal symptoms such as headache, tachycardia, low blood pressure, pruritus and rashes.

Top Supplements for Histamine Intolerance

DAO (Diamine Oxidase) Supplements

DAO is an enzyme that breaks down histamine in the gut. Several studies have shown that DAO supplementation can lead to significant symptom improvement, reduce the need for antihistamine medication and increase serum DAO. For instance, a study conducted by Schnedl et al. (2019) on 28 patients with histamine intolerance revealed that taking DAO capsules before meals for four weeks resulted in marked improvement across 22 symptoms, including those related to the cardiovascular system, digestive tract, skin, and respiratory system.

Recommended DAO supplements:

You have two options:

a)      Porcine-derived DAO, which is the most studied, like:

•  Seeking Health Histamine Digest, available at Amrita Nutrition or

• Xymogen HistDAO, available at YourHealthBasket

b)      Legume-derived DAO, like

• DRHealthcare DAOfood

To receive a 10% discount on supplements, visit my Resources page  

B Complex in a Methylated Form

Histamine is degraded in two ways: primarily by DAO in the gut and systemically by Histamine N-methyltransferase (HMNT). Vitamin B6 is a co-factor for DAO, meaning it helps the enzyme function more effectively. Methyl factors such as methylated B12 and folate provide the methyl groups needed for the HMNT enzyme to work.

Recommended Methylated B Complex:

• Pure Encapsulations B Complex Plus. Available at Amrita Nutrition

Quercetin

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and mast cell-stabilising properties that can help reduce histamine release in the body. In this study, quercetin was found to be more effective than conventional treatment like cromolyn, at inhibiting mast cells, which are involved in the release of inflammatory compounds, including histamine.

Recommended Quercetin Supplements:

• Jarrow Formulas Quercetin: Provides  500mg per capsule. Available at YourHealthBasket

• Now Foods Quercetin & Bromelain: Provides 800 mg per two capsules, plus bromelain, which is another good anti-inflammatory compound. Available at YourHealthBasket

• Thorne Quercetin Phytosome: Provides 250 mg per capsule in a phytosome complex, considered to be up to 20 times more bioavailable than quercetin extract alone. Available at YourHealthBasket

Quercetin should be taken between meals or at least 20 minutes before meals.

Black Cumin Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa)

Black cumin seed oil, derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. Its active compound, thymoquinone, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Black cumin seed oil has been found to stabilize mast cells, preventing them from releasing excessive histamine and other inflammatory mediators.

Recommended Black Cumin Seed Oil:

• Moss Nutrition Black Cumin Seed Oil: Provides 1000 mg per capsule. Available at Amrita Nutrition

Flavonoid Complex

Flavonoids are a group of natural compounds found in various fruits, vegetables, and plants, shown to have potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties. Different flavonoids, such as rutin, quercetin, luteolin etc, have been shown to downregulate mast cells activity and inhibit histamine release.

Recommended Flavonoid Complex:

• Researched Nutritionals Histaquel: Combines seven flavonoids shown to support healthy mast cell function. Available at Amrita Nutrition

How to Choose the Right Supplements

When selecting supplements for histamine intolerance, it’s important to consider the quality of the product. The brands listed here have shown good results with my clients. However, for best outcomes, consult with a healthcare provider who can help tailor the supplement regimen to your specific needs.

Take Action

If you're struggling to manage your symptoms or want personalised guidance, I can help. As a healthcare professional with experience in managing histamine intolerance, I understand how challenging this condition presents. Working together, we can create a tailored supplement and lifestyle plan that fits your specific needs and helps you regain control over your health. Reach out to me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards feeling better.

Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the use of supplements. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog. The supplements mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your specific health needs.