Histamine is a chemical compound called an amine & released by the immune system to help regulate many body functions including; the release of stomach acid, sleep-wake cycles & acting as a neurotransmitter. It is released by the immune system's mast cells & basophils to signal other cells. Mast cells are the cells the breakdown & release histamine in an allergic reaction.
Foods that have been preserved or aged contain more histamine & will continue to have more with time. Therefore people who have become histamine sensitive or intolerant may want to reduce or remove high histamine foods from their diet. That is not to say they need to not have these foods forever, but they may benefit from reducing or removing those foods while they work of strengthening their immune system & liver support, working with a trained healthcare provider to work out why they have become histamine intolerant.
High histamine foods include; alcohol, aged cheese, preserved meats (ham, salami, bacon), fermented foods (yoghurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso), preserved or canned fish. Processed foods.
The longer food sits after cooking also adds to the histamine levels. If you are histamine sensitive try popping leftovers straight the the fridge & only bringing out directly before reheating & eating.
There are ways to improve your reaction to histamine, including vitamin C, quercetin & herbs. If you think you may have issues with histamine get in contact to discuss what may assist your system.
Photo by Joshua Manjgo on Unsplash
