IC & Histamine Intolerance
Updated: Nov 26, 2019
IC and Histamine Intolerance often co-exist.
Histamine is released throughout your body including into your bladder wall.
Urologists may suggest patients take Zyrtec or Claritin daily especially during allergy season when some see an increase in urinary symptoms. The problem with this is, anti-histamines don’t remove histamines from the body.
Studies have shown long term use of anti-histamines such as Benadryl is linked to Dementia. There are other side effects associated with these drugs.
There is no single diagnostic test to measure the amount of histamine in your body. It’s produced in your gut and it’s in foods you eat. Certain over the counter medicines such as NSAIDS can suppress DAO (the enzyme that breaks down histamine) and play a role in releasing histamine.
The health of your gut bacteria and pathogens like SIBO or Candida also influence histamine and can sometimes be the root cause for IC or histamine issues.
One way to reduce symptoms of IC and Histamine Intolerance is to reduce the foods that contain histamine. The goal is to keep the histamines within your body at a limit your body can handle.
I posted previously on Instagram the image of a histamine bucket. It’s a great illustration to help you understand the concept of keeping your histamines within your personal bucket and not overflowing.
Here are foods to consider reducing if you have IC and/or Histamine Intolerance.
Alcoholic drinks - wine, beer, champagne – all fermented. (Histamine is a byproduct of fermentation)
Energy drinks and tea - block DAO the enzyme that breaks down histamine
Pickles, mayonaise, olives, salad dressings– they all contain vinegar.
Cured Meats – bacon, deli lunch meats, bratwurst, sausage, pepperoni.
Leftover Meats
Aged Cheese
Citrus Fruits (strawberries, pineapple, papaya, bananas are histamine releasing, they can cause mast cells to release histamines)
Avocado, Spinach, Tomatoes
Chocolate
Nuts – (especially peanuts and walnuts)
If your symptoms improve after 2 weeks of reducing these foods, then you might consider eliminating these foods and finding alternatives.
The IC-Histamine connection usually doesn't get discussed in depth by Urologists. I hope you found this information helpful.
If you’d like help addressing your IC or histamine issues further then please schedule a Free Consultation call. HERE
Happy Health!
Julie
Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
Inside Out Wellness with Julie
www.InsideOutWellnessWithJulie.com
julie@InsideOutWellnessWithJulie.com
Disclaimer:
The information on this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or be medical advice.
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