Does anyone have any experience with, or thoughts on, taking diamine oxidase (DAO) supplements to combat histamine intolerance? I believe 'Histame' is the brand available in the US and UK. I'm thinking of trying these to reduce my reactions to high-histamine foods while I attempt to heal my gut but they're incredibly expensive. I'm also trying to reduce the histamine in my diet but am finding this difficult for various reasons.
Thanks!
Background: I'm male, 28 with a 20+ year history of wacky digestion and other health problems. Been strict, nightshade-free Paeleo since November with moderate improvement in symptoms. Tested negative for Coeliac, Crohns, Colitis, bowel cancer, diabetes and thyroid problems: my colorectal specialist described me as 'a mystery'. Am currently eating very low carb as I swell up like a balloon, belch uncontrollably and lose weight like crazy whenever I eat any carbs (still trying to get tested for SIBO - virtually nowhere in the UK will test for this - argh!).
Anyway, since going VLC I've reduced the bloating and weight loss but have started noticing reactions to foods such as chicken, spinach, salmon, nuts (diarrhoea, itching, flushing, sinus problems, palpitations etc.), hence I'm suspecting an additional histamine intolerance on top of all the other mess. I can't cut much more out of my diet or there will be nothing left (of the diet or of me). It's all driving me nuts. Any help much appreciated!
Update: I decided not to purchase the DAO in the end and started the GAPS diet instead. I felt that the DAO wasn't going to address the root cause of my problems and wasn't worth the expense.
My experience on GAPS has been mixed so far. I took more probiotic tablets in the beginning but I'm gradually replacing these with fermented foods. After slowly introducing the broths and probiotics I'm tolerating amines better than I used to. However, I've had other issues surface (especially skin problems of various kinds). I'm hoping these are 'die-off' and a good sign, but it's too early to tell.
Update 2: Spoke too soon about the amine tolerance! I'm experiencing major amine intolerance symptoms again. I'm drinking a lot more kefir than before which isn't helping, although it's the only thing that's had an impact on my fungal problems and eczema so I'm reluctant to give up drinking it at present. I've caved in and ordered the DAO. I'll report back when I've had chance to try it.
