Allergies
Description
Histamine intolerance and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) result when the body cannot properly break down histamine or when mast cells release histamine inappropriately. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms—from skin flushing and itching to brain fog, headaches, and IBS-like symptoms. Functional medicine recognizes that underlying issues like gut dysbiosis, mold exposure, stress, estrogen dominance, or nutrient deficiencies often contribute to histamine overload or mast cell instability. Treatment focuses on reducing histamine load, supporting DAO enzyme function, healing the gut, and calming the nervous and immune systems.
Symptoms
Flushing or skin rashes
Hives or itching
Headaches or migraines
Nasal congestion or postnasal drip
Dizziness or low blood pressure
Anxiety or irritability
Diarrhea or bloating
Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
Menstrual irregularities
Sensitivity to wine, aged foods, or fermented items
Labs & Testing Options
DAO enzyme activity test
Plasma histamine levels
Tryptase (for MCAS)
Zonulin and stool testing (for gut permeability)
Mold/mycotoxin panel
Estrogen, progesterone, and methylation markers
Organic acids test (gut dysbiosis, mitochondrial function)
Food sensitivity testing (IgG/IgA panels)
Treatment Options
Low-histamine diet
DAO enzyme supplements before meals
Quercetin, vitamin C, and luteolin (mast cell stabilizers)
Antihistamines (H1 and H2 blockers) short-term
Nervous system support (vagal tone, trauma work)
Mold/mycotoxin and gut pathogen removal
Methylation support (B12, folate, B6 if indicated)
Addressing hormonal imbalances and stress
Flushing, itching, or food reactions? Let’s stabilize your mast cells and lower your histamine burden naturally.