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Is there a plausible mechanism for histamine to affect gut-health? I thought histamine was just an airway thing.


Mast Cell Activation Syndrome would be the main one. Mast cells are an integral part of the intestinal epithelial barrier. When they become over-sensitive, even small amounts of dietary histamine (present in a large number of foods) can trigger GI and systemic symptoms. H2 blockers have shown some efficacy, as well as DAO supplements (which break down dietary histamine).


Histamines affect a broad spectrum of body systems. One time I was really stressed about work, went to bed and started itching unbearably and had welts. Apparently I had broken out into hives, which I didn't recognize at first, then I took an antihistamine and within half an hour everything was back to normal.


Histamine is a general inflammation-inducing chemical. That pain and rash you get when you touch a stinging nettle - that's caused by the stinging nettle literally injecting histamine into your skin.




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