Is Histamine Intolerance making your hot flushes worse?

Understanding Histamine Intolerance and Hot Flushes

Histamine intolerance can potentially exacerbate hot flushes in some individuals. Here’s how the two may be connected:

What is Histamine Intolerance?

Histamine intolerance occurs when there is an imbalance between the levels of histamine in the body and the ability to break it down. This can lead to various symptoms, including:

• Headaches

• Skin reactions (hives, rashes)

• Digestive issues (bloating, diarrhea)

• Respiratory problems

Hot Flushes Explained

Hot flushes are sudden feelings of warmth, often associated with menopause, but can occur due to various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, and certain foods.

Connection Between Histamine Intolerance and Hot Flushes

The relationship between histamine intolerance and hot flushes may involve:

• Vasodilation: Histamine can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow and warmth, potentially triggering or worsening hot flushes.

• Hormonal Influence: Histamine may interact with hormones that regulate body temperature, thereby affecting the frequency and intensity of hot flushes.

• Dietary Factors: Foods high in histamine (e.g., aged cheeses, fermented foods, alcohol) may also trigger hot flushes in sensitive individuals.

Managing Symptoms

If you suspect that histamine intolerance is contributing to your hot flushes, consider the following strategies:

• Consult with a Naturopath healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.

• Keep a food diary to identify potential triggers.

• Consider a low-histamine diet to see if symptoms improve.

• Stay hydrated and manage stress through relaxation techniques.

Conclusion

While histamine intolerance can potentially worsen hot flushes, individual experiences may vary. It is important to seek personalised advice from a Naturopath or

healthcare provider for effective management.

Written by Karyn Campbell Naturopath and Equine Herbalist at Hābu Health. Karyn helps women navigate perimenopause and hormonal imbalances naturally through evidence-based naturopathy and herbal medicine.