Probiotics for Histamine Intolerance: Which Strains to Choose and Avoid

Probiotics for Histamine Intolerance: Which Strains to Choose and Avoid

Histamine intolerance can be a perplexing and frustrating condition, manifesting as headaches, skin reactions, digestive discomfort, and more. For those seeking relief, probiotics often come up in discussions about gut health and immune support. However, not all probiotic strains are equal—some can actually increase histamine levels, while others may help reduce them. In this post, we’ll explore what histamine intolerance is, how certain probiotics might affect it, and which strains are commonly recommended or avoided.

Understanding Histamine Intolerance

What Is Histamine?
Histamine is a naturally occurring compound involved in immune responses, digestion, and communication within the body. While it’s crucial for various physiological processes, an excess of histamine or an inability to break it down can lead to symptoms such as:

• Headaches or migraines
• Skin rashes or flushing
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Bloating, gas, or other digestive issues
• Rapid heart rate or palpitations

Why Does Intolerance Happen?
People with histamine intolerance have trouble breaking down histamine, often due to reduced activity of enzymes like diamine oxidase (DAO) and histamine N-methyltransferase (HNMT). When histamine accumulates in the body, it can trigger a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Probiotics and Histamine: The Connection

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. However, certain strains can produce histamine, potentially exacerbating histamine intolerance. Conversely, other strains appear to have histamine-neutral or even histamine-lowering effects.

Histamine-Producing Strains

• Some Lactobacillus species (e.g., Lactobacillus reuteri)
• Certain Lactobacillus casei strains

These bacteria can convert amino acids into histamine during the fermentation process. For individuals with histamine intolerance, introducing or increasing these strains might lead to worsening symptoms.

Histamine-Neutral or Histamine-Degrading Strains

• Bifidobacterium longum
• Bifidobacterium infantis
• Certain Lactobacillus plantarum strains

These strains are generally considered safer for people with histamine issues because they do not produce histamine and may even help degrade it. Nonetheless, responses can vary from person to person.

Choosing the Right Probiotic

When dealing with histamine intolerance, selecting the right probiotic can be essential for symptom management.

1. Check Labels Carefully:
   Look for strain-specific information rather than just the genus (e.g., Bifidobacterium longum W11). Different subspecies or strains can have varying effects on histamine levels.
2. Opt for Broad-Spectrum Formulas:
   Consider multi-strain probiotics that emphasise histamine-friendly strains like Bifidobacterium longum or Bifidobacterium infantis.
3. Avoid Known Histamine-Producing Strains:
   If you’re particularly reactive, steer clear of products that list Lactobacillus reuteri or certain Lactobacillus casei strains.
4. Start Low and Go Slow:
   Introduce probiotics at a low dosage to gauge your tolerance. Increase gradually while monitoring any reactions.
5. Consult a Professional:
   A functional medicine practitioner or dietitian experienced in histamine intolerance can help tailor a probiotic regimen to your individual needs.

Functional Medicine and Nutrition Approaches to Histamine Intolerance

A functional medicine and nutrition approach doesn’t just treat symptoms—it looks for root causes. If you’re experiencing ongoing issues with histamine intolerance, a practitioner may explore:

• Gut Health Assessment:
  Identifying imbalances in gut bacteria, including any overgrowth of histamine-producing strains.
• Nutrient and Enzyme Support:
  Ensuring adequate levels of DAO and other cofactors necessary for histamine breakdown.
• Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments:
  Addressing potential triggers, from fermented foods to stress management techniques.
• Personalised Supplementation:
  Recommending specific probiotic strains, vitamins, and minerals to support histamine clearance.

Meet Shelley Cavezza, PhD – Functional Medicine and Nutrition Practitioner on the Sunshine Coast

Shelley Cavezza, PhD, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate complex health issues like histamine intolerance with a holistic and scientific approach. With a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, and postgraduate training in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine Shelley leverages research-backed strategies to create customised health plans.

• Personalised Gut Health Strategies: Tailored probiotics and dietary recommendations to support histamine balance.
• Comprehensive Assessments: In-depth testing and evaluations to uncover the root causes of symptoms.
• Ongoing Support: Continuous guidance and adjustments to help you reclaim your well-being.

Take the First Step Toward Improved Histamine Balance

If you suspect histamine intolerance or find that common probiotics worsen your symptoms, a Discovery Call with Shelley Cavezza, PhD, could be your next step. Together, you can determine which probiotic strains align with your health needs and craft a plan that addresses the root causes of histamine imbalance.

Additional Resources

Services Offered:

• Comprehensive Functional Medicine and Nutrition Consultations
• Personalised Nutrition and Lifestyle Coaching and Health Plans
• Functional Testing and Natural Therapy Recommendations

Contact Information

• Website: www.drshelleycavezza.com.au
• Phone: +61 419 821 666
• Email: info@drshelleycavezza.com.au
• Address: Hale Health Medicine, Suite 9/2 Old Gympie Road, Yandina, QLD 4556

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new health programme.