Histamine isn’t just about allergies; it plays a powerful role in our hormones, gut health, mood, and overall well-being. In this episode, Christa Elza and Sheree Beaumont unpack the often-overlooked impact of histamine intolerance, from anxiety and migraines to PMS, skin reactions, and digestive distress. Together, they explore how histamine interacts with estrogen, the genetic factors that influence its breakdown, and the roles of diet, stress, and gut health in tipping the “histamine bucket.”
With practical strategies, supplement insights, and hormone-balancing tips, this conversation equips you with the knowledge to identify triggers, restore balance, and reclaim your energy and clarity.
[00:00 – 06:59] Histamine Basics & Everyday Triggers
Histamine is a signaling molecule, vital but harmful in excessCommon symptoms: headaches, bloating, hives, congestion, anxietyEveryday triggers include stress, alcohol, allergens, mold, and toxinsBalance is key: too much or too little histamine causes problems
[07:00 – 11:59] Hormones, Ovulation & Estrogen’s Role
Estrogen stimulates mast cells to release histamineHistamine feeds back and increases estrogen, creating a vicious cycleSymptoms often worsen around ovulation or PMS (anxiety, migraines, hives)Progesterone has a calming effect, but declines in perimenopause raise risk
[12:00 – 15:59] Food, Genetics & The Histamine Bucket
High-histamine foods: aged cheese, cured meats, red wine, fermented foodsHistamine liberators: citrus, strawberries, chocolate, shellfish, leftoversGenetics (DAO & MTHFR variants) can impair histamine breakdownSupplements like DAO enzyme, methylated B vitamins, NAC, and milk thistle support balance
[16:00 – 18:59] Gut Health & Lifestyle Factors
Gut permeability and bacterial imbalance heighten histamine loadMedications like NSAIDs, antibiotics, and antidepressants may suppress DAOHealing strategies: glutamine, zinc carnosine, collagen, bifido-rich probioticsDairy sensitivity and stress often worsen histamine reactions
[19:00 – 22:00] Post-Menopause & Practical Action Steps
Lower estrogen post-menopause can reduce one trigger, but gut issues remainKey steps: track symptoms, food journaling, and identify stress levelsFocus on gut repair, probiotics, supplements, and hormone testing if neededStress management is essential, mast cells release histamine under stress“Histamine is kind of like an allergy molecule, it can impact digestion, hormones, mood, and even anxiety.” – Christa Elza
“Empowered health is your superpower. Knowing your triggers puts the solution back in your hands.” – Sheree Beaumont