Are Your Estrogen Levels Exacerbating Histamine Intolerance?
High Estrogen levels may be triggering excess histamine release in your body.
Histamine is a biogenic amine that is found in many tissues of the body, including the brain, heart, lungs, and intestines. It is involved in many physiological processes, in particular the immune response, inflammation, and neurotransmission. Histamine is stored in mast cells and basophils, which are types of immune cells that both play a key role in the body's response to allergens and pathogens. When these cells are activated, they release histamine into the surrounding tissue, where it binds to histamine receptors and produces a range of effects.
Estrogen and Progesterone are both involved in histamine release and breakdown.
One of the key triggers for histamine release is estrogen, a hormone that is produced by the ovaries and plays a critical role in the female reproductive system. Estrogen is involved in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. It is also known to have an effect on histamine release, although the mechanisms by which this occurs are not fully understood.
Studies have shown that estrogen can increase the number and sensitivity of histamine receptors in mast cells and basophils, which can lead to an increased release of histamine when these cells are activated. This effect is thought to be mediated by estrogen receptors, which are present on both mast cells and basophils. When estrogen binds to these receptors, it can increase the expression of histamine receptors and activate signaling pathways that promote histamine release.
Estrogen has also been shown to increase the expression of certain enzymes that are involved in the production and metabolism of histamine. Histidine decarboxylase, which catalyzes- or increases- the conversion of histidine to histamine is one of these enzymes. Estrogen can up-regulate the expression of this histidine decarboxylase, which can lead to an increased production of histamine. Similarly, estrogen can down-regulate the expression of diamine oxidase, commonly know as DAO This enzyme is involved in the breakdown of histamine. The down-regulation of DAO can lead to an increased accumulation of histamine in the body, which can exacerbate the symptoms of histamine intolerance.
Given these effects, it is not surprising that women tend to have higher levels of histamine release during the time of the menstrual cycle when estrogen is high. This phase of the menstrual cycle is known as the follicular phase, and it occurs in the days leading up to ovulation. During this time, estrogen levels are at their highest, which can lead to an increased release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. This can contribute to symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, skin rashes or hives, food sensitivities, post nasal drip, fatigue, excess mucus, irregular menstrual cycles, and gastrointestinal distress.
To counteract the effects of estrogen on histamine release, many women choose to take exogenous progesterone. Progesterone is another hormone that is produced by the ovaries and plays a key role in the female reproductive system. It is involved in the maintenance of pregnancy and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. It is also known to have an effect on histamine release, although exactly how this occurs is yet to be known.
We do know that progesterone can have an inhibitory effect on the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. This effect is thought to be mediated by progesterone receptors, which are present on these cells, similar to the way in which estrogen works to up-regulate histamine levels. When progesterone binds to these receptors, it can inhibit signaling pathways that promote histamine release and thus decrease the number and sensitivity of histamine receptors on these cells.
Progesterone has been shown to increase the expression of DAO, the enzyme that is involved in the breakdown of histamine. This can help to decrease the accumulation of histamine in the body and lead to a reduction in the overall symptoms of histamine intolerance.
Taking exogenous progesterone may be an effective way to decrease the levels of histamine being released when estrogen is naturally higher in the body. It is important to note that the effects of exogenous progesterone on histamine release may vary depending on the individual. Some women may find that taking progesterone actually exacerbates their symptoms, while others may experience significant improvement. Women who have lower estrogen peaks during their menstrual cycle may be able to significantly alleviate histamine intolerance symptoms by focusing on dietary and lifestyle changes rather than using exogenous hormones. As with any hormonal intervention, it is important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs.
Histidine decarboxylase up-regulates histamine levels
DAO Enzymes break down histamine
Estrogen downregulates DAO production and upregulates histidine decarboxylase
Progesterone up-regulates DAO production and down-regulates histidine carboxylase production
Dietary and Lifestyle Interventions for Histamine Intolerance
There are a number of dietary and lifestyle changes that can help to reduce histamine release and improve histamine intolerance. These include:
1. Avoid histamine-rich foods: It’s impossible to have a no-histamine diet, but a low-histamine diet can help. Histamine is found in a variety of foods, including alcohol and other fermented foods, dairy, dried fruits, avocado, spinach, citrus fruits, processed and smoked meats, aged cheese, eggplant, and shellfish. Avoiding these foods can help to reduce histamine levels in the body and alleviate symptoms of histamine intolerance.It’s also important to avoid histamine producers- these are foods that, when ingested, trigger the body to release histamine naturally. These foods include alcohol, wheat, bananas, beans, chocolate, tomatoes, papaya, citrus fruits, nuts- particularly walnuts, cashews, and peanuts- and food dyes and additives.
2. Support DAO production: Diamine oxidase (DAO) is the enzyme responsible for breaking down histamine in the body. Certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, copper, and vitamin B6, can help to support DAO production and activity. Including foods rich in these nutrients, or using high quality supplements, can be beneficial for those with histamine intolerance.
3. Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms of histamine intolerance by increasing the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing, can help to reduce histamine release and improve overall health and well-being.
4. Support gut health: The gut plays a critical role in histamine metabolism, as DAO is produced in the gut lining. Supporting gut health through the inclusion of probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber-rich foods can help to improve histamine metabolism and alleviate symptoms of histamine intolerance. Improving gut health also reduces bacterial overgrowth, which is another factor that can cause histamine release.
5. Consider supplementing with quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that has been shown to have antihistamine properties. Taking a quercetin supplement may be beneficial for those with histamine intolerance. The effects of quercetin can usually be felt within 4-6 weeks of beginning.
Histamine intolerance is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on day to day quality of life. Understanding the biochemistry of histamine release, and the role that estrogen and progesterone play in this process, can help to guide interventions and improve outcomes. By making dietary and lifestyle changes, and considering hormonal and supplemental interventions, those with histamine intolerance can reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life. As always, it is important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs. If you are interested in using some of the supplements mentioned above or if you want to inquire as to whether progesterone use might be right for you, click the appropriate button link below.