Numerous foods can contribute to an accumulation of histamine in the body, regardless of whether they are not all rich in this amine.
Once DAO deficiency is diagnosed, we begin treatment with a low-histamine diet, in which all foods that contain histamine per se, those that contain other amines that compete with the DAO enzyme (putrescine, tyramine, cadaverine) are reduced. , etc.) and those that are considered endogenous histamine releasers.
The endogenous histamine release from certain foods triggers an unfamiliar reaction, possibly linked to lesser-known receptors on mast cells without the involvement of IgE. Despite these foods not inherently containing histamine, many patients experience a relatively swift reaction compared to foods with histamine. This idea surfaced over 30 years ago, and while its foundation holds true, it continues to raise unanswered questions.
Based on published scientific evidence and our clinical expertise spanning over a decade, the 9 foods to trigger the release of endogenous histamine are the following:
- Seafood
- Milk
- Strawberries
- Nuts
- Tomato
- Pineapple
- Kiwi
- Chocolate
- Egg white
However, it is crucial to note that not all patients respond the same to DAO deficiency. Other factors triggering endogenous histamine should be considered, such as: menstrual period, stressful circumstances, prolonged fasting, high intensity sports, consumption of histamine-releasing drugs, environmental allergies and gut microbiota dysbiosis, among others. Therefore, it is essential to personalize and adapt nutritional recommendations and food reintroductions, respectively, according to each individual and context.
We encourage you to share through a comment if you have detected “rapid” symptoms after eating any of the foods mentioned above and what they are.
If you want us to advise you in a personalized way, either in our Barcelona nutrition centre or by video conference from anywhere in the world, contact us and we will help you
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