Histamine intolerance (HIT) is a trending buzzword within the realm of functional nutrition and integrative health. Although mainstream medicine has not officially accepted it as a clinical diagnosis, more and more holistic nutritionists, wellness experts, and alternative practitioners are spreading the word about this condition. They're highlighting a distinctive and intriguing trend: people getting allergy-like symptoms following the intake of specific foods — without being positive for conventional food allergies.

So, what is histamine intolerance? Is it the cause of your enigmatic bloating, headaches, skin rashes, or maybe even brain fog? And how do you react to such symptoms?

This in-depth guide will break down what is histamine intolerance, the symptoms to look out for, potential causes, and how a low-histamine diet can alleviate your symptoms.

What is Histamine?

Before going into the condition itself, a basic understanding of histamine's role in the body is important. Histamine is a chemical messenger — or signaling molecule — that plays an important role in a number of physiological processes. Notably, it's implicated in the immune response of the body, digestion, and brain-cell communication.

During allergic reactions, the body releases histamine to defend against perceived threats like pollen, dust, or certain foods. This triggers inflammation, causing symptoms like sneezing, congestion, hives, or swelling. But histamine is also found naturally in many foods and is produced daily in the body in small amounts. It’s perfectly normal — until your body can’t break it down efficiently.

What Is Histamine Intolerance?

Histamine intolerance results when the body fails to metabolize or degrade histamine efficiently — either through enzyme deficiency, gene defects, or dietary load of histamine. This leads to an accumulation of histamine in the blood that triggers symptoms similar to allergic reactions.

Contrary to food allergies, where the immune system is involved, histamine intolerance is considered to be more of a metabolic dysregulation. The body has an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO), which is released in the small intestine and is used to degrade dietary histamine. When DAO is low or not working optimally, food histamine can build up and initiate a chain of symptoms.

Notably, histamine intolerance is not yet officially a recognized medical condition by organizations like the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Anecdotal evidence, increasing social media discussions, and early research have propelled it into public health discourse.

What Does Histamine Intolerance Feel Like?

Histamine intolerance is commonly referred to as the "great mimicker" due to its symptoms, which mimic various other conditions — ranging from allergies to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to hormonal disturbances.

Typical symptoms are:

Gastrointestinal discomfort: bloating, diarrhea, nausea, or cramping in the abdomen

Skin symptoms: hives, flushing, itching, and edema

Respiratory symptoms: nasal congestion, wheezing, sneezing, or shortness of breath

Cardiovascular signs: low blood pressure, dizziness, rapid heart rate or palpitations

Neurological symptoms: headaches, migraines, anxiety, or brain fog

Since these symptoms can be so widespread, involving more than one system within the body, they're so frequently misdiagnosed and missed. Someone may see specialist after specialist without getting an explanation, particularly if standard allergy tests yield a negative result.

Why Does Histamine Intolerance Occur?

There are a couple of main reasons why an individual might develop histamine intolerance:

1. DAO Enzyme Deficiency

The most common cause that has been extensively talked about is a deficiency or malfunction of DAO. If your digestive system is not secreting enough of this enzyme — or if it's inhibited by some foods, drugs, or medical conditions — histamine clearance decelerates, causing accumulation.

2. Genetic Factors

Others can inherit mutations that lead to reduced DAO production or reduced efficiency of the enzyme. Until now, there is limited research, but familial patterns indicate that genetics may be a contributing factor.

3. Drugs That Inhibit DAO

Some medications, including blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and antibiotics, can inhibit DAO action or cause histamine accumulation in the body. Opioids and narcotics also might contribute to a histamine accumulation.

4. Gastrointestinal Disorders

Individuals with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis tend to exhibit decreased DAO activity as a result of intestinal inflammation. Gut dysbiosis — an imbalance in gut flora — can further inhibit histamine degradation.

High-Histamine Foods: What to Avoid

All foods have some amount of histamine, but some are much higher in histamine content — particularly fermented, aged, and processed foods. The longer the food is stored or aged, the greater the histamine content.

Foods high in histamine are:

• Alcohol, especially wine and beer
• Aged cheeses (Parmesan, Gouda)
• Smoked or cured meats (bacon, salami, ham)
• Sauerkraut and pickled vegetables
• Canned fish (tuna, mackerel)
• Tomatoes, spinach, eggplant
• Vinegar and soy sauce

There are some other foods that do not have high histamine content themselves but can cause the release of histamine or inhibit DAO activity. They are:

• Citrus fruits
• Chocolate and cocoa
• Egg whites
• Peanuts
• Black and green tea
• Energy drinks

Can a Low-Histamine Diet Provide Relief?

It's impossible and not necessary to eradicate histamine entirely from your diet. The intention of a low-histamine diet is to lower the total histamine load on your body — taking a break for your digestive system and enzymes.

A low-histamine diet typically starts with an elimination period, in which high-histamine foods are eliminated for a period of several weeks. Foods are then gradually reintroduced to determine the culprits. Consulting with a dietitian or nutritionist is highly recommended, particularly to avoid malnourishment.

Some examples of low-histamine foods are:

• Unprocessed, fresh meats and fish (especially those frozen upon catch)
• Gluten-free grains including rice, quinoa, and millet
• Most fruits that are not citrus (apples, blueberries, pomegranates, mangoes)
• Fresh veggies (apart from tomatoes, spinach, eggplant)
• Coconut and olive oil
• Non-dairy milk (hemp, almond, coconut)
• Non-aged cheese such as mozzarella, cream cheese, or ricotta (if dairy is well-tolerated)

Important principle: The newer, the better. Freshly prepared foods with no preservatives and minimal storage time are best for the control of histamine levels.

Histamine intolerance occupies a gray area in modern medicine. While it lacks formal recognition from most medical authorities, many individuals have found symptom relief through low-histamine diets and targeted lifestyle changes.

Research continues to develop, and additional studies must be conducted in order to determine the mechanisms, diagnostic measures, and optimal treatment regimens for HIT. Until then, if you suspect intolerance to histamine, monitor your symptoms, see a healthcare professional, and consider collaborating with a dietician who is knowledgeable about histamine metabolism.

Father's day is around the corner and no gift is better than that of a good health! Fathers guide, support, and nurture their families and they also need care. In the struggle of prioritizing work, men often put their health on backseat, so this father's day, let's flip this.

with age, men become more vulnerable to certain health issues, these are linked to the heart, kidneys, liver, brain, prostate, and their cholesterol levels. However, there are simple and everyday choices that can go long way in preserving health and preventing illness.

Eat Smart For Your Heart

As per the National Institutes of Health, cardiovascular diseases develops 7 to 10 years later in women than in men. As per MedStar Health, men tend to have their first heart attack an average of 10 years earlier than woman. Other studies too show that men are more prone to heart diseases at a younger age. However, small dietary changes can make a difference.

To support their function, antioxidant-rich fruits such as blueberries, red grapes, and cranberries can be helpful. They help fight inflammation and oxidative stress—both of which can harm kidney tissue. Vegetables like red bell peppers, garlic, and onions are rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory compounds that further protect kidney health. For protein, wild-caught salmon and egg whites are considered kidney-friendly and lower in phosphorus.

Keep Your Liver Clean

A healthy liver is crucial for detoxifying the body and processing nutrients. Foods that support liver health include berries, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, and leafy greens. These are high in antioxidants and help the liver do its job more efficiently. Again, omega-3-rich fish comes into play here, helping reduce fat buildup and inflammation in the liver.

Food For Healthy Brain and Prostate Health

Cognitive decline is a common concern as men age. To support brain health, it's important to prioritise foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and folate. Spinach, kale, walnuts, flaxseeds, and of course, fatty fish, help nourish the brain and may even delay age-related decline. A healthy brain supports not just memory, but also mood, decision-making, and quality of life.

Prostate health becomes a critical concern after the age of 50. Tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene, may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli contain sulforaphane, known for its cancer-fighting properties. Regular intake of these, combined with omega-3 fatty acids, helps keep inflammation down and promotes better prostate function.

What Helps You Manage Cholesterol

High cholesterol can quietly pave the way for heart problems. Soluble fibre from sources like oats, legumes, and certain fruits helps lower LDL cholesterol. Foods fortified with plant sterols—like some cereals and spreads—can also reduce bad cholesterol levels. And don’t forget the role of healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and avocados in keeping the good cholesterol up.

When it comes to nutrition buzzwords, protein is having a long-standing moment. It's promoted by fitness influencers, stamped across packaging, and touted as the secret to everything from muscle tone to satiety. But here’s the real question that deserves attention—do you actually need more protein, or do you just need smarter protein?

As the conversation around protein deepens, experts are calling for a shift in focus—from more to better. Ahead, we dive into what science and dietitians say about protein requirements, the risk of deficiency, and how to choose protein sources that are not just effective, but smarter for your long-term health.

Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders. It's a fundamental building block of life, essential for the structure and function of your muscles, skin, enzymes, hormones, and nearly every cell in your body. Alongside carbohydrates and fats, protein is a macronutrient—meaning your body needs it in large amounts to function properly.

"Protein is critical not only for muscle repair but also for immunity, metabolic function, and hormone regulation," explains Dt. Vaidehi Nawathe, Chief Dietitian at Bhaktivedanta Hospital & Research Institute. “Its role in health spans far beyond just bulking up at the gym.”

Are You Getting Enough Protein? Signs of Deficiency

Despite its importance, many people may be consuming far less protein than they actually need, especially in developing countries and even among affluent urban populations.

Common signs you may not be getting enough protein include:

• Feeling hungry shortly after meals
• Fatigue or lack of energy, especially post-workout
• Poor recovery after illness or exercise
• Hair thinning, brittle nails, or weakened skin integrity

“If you're constantly snacking, feel sluggish or take longer than usual to bounce back from workouts or the flu, protein might be lacking in your diet,” says Nawathe.

Experts note that satiety and muscle recovery are strong indicators of adequate protein intake. If you feel full between meals and recover well, you're likely meeting your protein needs.

What Are Standard Protein Requirements?

How much protein you need daily depends on a variety of factors: age, gender, body weight, activity level, and overall health goals. On average:

• 10–15 grams per snack
• 20–35 grams per meal

Yet numbers only tell part of the story. Instead of obsessing over numbers alone, focus on making smarter protein choices that deliver more than just amino acids.

Hidden Protein Deficiency Crisis

Protein deficiency is a global health concern—but not in the ways we often imagine. According to Nawathe, “Protein deficiency is not just a problem of poverty or undernourishment. It’s surprisingly rampant even among the urban rich.”

In India alone, an alarming 73% of the urban population is protein deficient, often consuming only 10 to 30 grams per day, when the recommended intake ranges between 60 to 90 grams. That’s a serious gap, especially for pregnant women, older adults, and those recovering from illness.

Unlike iron or calcium deficiencies, protein deficiency often goes unnoticed, leading to chronic fatigue, poor immunity, and long-term health complications.

It’s not just about how much protein you consume, but what kind.

“There are endless protein powders on the market, but not all are created equal,” warns Nawathe. Her recommendation? Look beyond standard whey or meat-based options and explore plant-based protein powders—particularly those fortified with fiber, probiotics, and omega-3s (like DHA).

Smart protein choices include:

• Pea protein + Brown rice protein blends
• Formulas that include prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
• Low-GI protein options for blood sugar control
• Protein enriched with DHA for brain and heart support

These blends are not just good for muscle synthesis but also improve gut health, aid nutrient absorption, and support maternal health, particularly by reducing risks of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia in expectant mothers.

Animal Protein vs. Plant Protein

While red meat and dairy-based proteins offer complete amino acid profiles, they may not be the best long-term choices for everyone.

“Animal protein, especially red meat, is high in saturated fats and cholesterol, which raises the risk of cardiovascular disease and some cancers,” says Nawathe. In contrast, plant proteins are anti-inflammatory, gut-friendly, and often more digestible.

Moreover, protein powders that taste good and mix well enhance compliance—because people are more likely to stick with nutrition habits that feel enjoyable.

The protein conversation is no longer about extremes. It’s about mindful nutrition—choosing sources that are holistic, balanced, and tailored to your needs.

If you're unsure about your protein intake or whether you're consuming the right kind, consult a registered dietitian who can assess your lifestyle, body composition, and health history.

Dt. Vaidehi Nawathe is Chief Dietitian at Bhaktivedanta Hospital & Research Institute in India

Known as the best source of fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, beans are the best plant-based protein options one can opt for. Used all over the world, these versatile seeds are prepared in many different ways, whether it is in burrito bowls or in Rajma curries. However, did you know that these beans are far from just a delicious addition to our diet? They could also help us avoid diabetes and high cholesterol as well as inflammation.

Beans are far more than just a simple food; a recent study reveals they hold surprising health benefits, especially for those at risk of type 2 diabetes. Eating just one cup of beans daily significantly improved the health markers in a small group of people with prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated and close to developing into full-blown type 2 diabetes.

How Beans Helped Our Health

Presented at the American Society for Nutrition in Orlando, the study found that beans reduced inflammation in the body. Think of inflammation as a constant, low-level irritation inside you that can contribute to serious health problems. Even though bean consumption didn't directly change blood sugar levels in this particular study, these other benefits are a huge deal because people with prediabetes often have high cholesterol and inflammation, both of which increase their risk for other long-term health issues like heart disease. So, beans can act like a protective shield for your body.

What Did The Study Find?

In this study, 72 people participated for 12 weeks. They were split into groups, with some eating black beans, others eating chickpeas, and a control group eating rice. The results were pretty clear:

• Chickpeas were especially good at bringing down overall cholesterol levels.
• Black beans were effective at reducing signs of inflammation in the blood.

Basically, the study showed that beans are not just good for people with prediabetes, but they're a fantastic choice for everyone looking to improve their health. These findings could even help shape what doctors and public health programs tell us about preventing heart disease and diabetes.

Easily Add Beans to Your Meals

The good news is that it's quite simple to swap out less healthy ingredients for beans in your everyday cooking. Just be careful to check labels for added sugars or too much salt when buying canned beans.

The researchers are now looking into how eating beans might affect your gut health, which is another exciting area of study.

Beans are a budget-friendly way to boost your overall health and reduce your risk of long-term diseases. Try blending them to make soups thicker, tossing them on top of your salad for extra protein, or pairing them with grains like rice or quinoa.

Soups and Stews

This is one of the easiest ways! Just toss in a can of rinsed black beans, kidney beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas into almost any soup, chili, or stew during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Pasta Dishes

Stir a can of drained and rinsed white beans (like cannellini or great northern) into your pasta sauce. They'll blend in and make your meal heartier and more nutritious. You can also add them whole to pasta salads.

Tacos, Burritos, and Quesadillas

Beans are a natural fit here! Mash them up for a refried bean base, or add whole black beans or pinto beans to your fillings. They're excellent in breakfast burritos too.

Salads

Boost any salad by adding a handful of chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans. They provide a nice texture and make the salad more filling.

Rice Dishes

Mix beans into your rice. Classic rice and beans is a complete and satisfying meal, but you can also add them to stir-fries or grain bowls