Is it always an allergy if the skin is itchy and swollen? Doctors remind us that it could also be due to a deficiency of vitamin B complex, leading to histamine intolerance and imbalanced nutrient levels in the body. This can result in symptoms such as itchy eyes, nasal congestion, itchy nose, itchy body, rashes, hives, and even irritable bowel syndrome. These allergy-like conditions are not caused by contact with allergens but are related to the three main factors that cause “high histamine” in the body.

Mr. Hong, who is nearly 60 years old and has a heavy workload, has been experiencing unexplained itching for the past few months, which has greatly affected his sleep and work. Despite seeing numerous dermatologists and avoiding his known allergens, the itching sensation throughout his body has not improved. The only effective remedy is to take antihistamine medications, but once the medication wears off, the itching returns, and it cannot be permanently eradicated.

Dr. Yan Zuohua, the director of Lianxin Clinic, says, “Many people believe that itchy skin, irritable bowel syndrome, nasal congestion, and other conditions are related to contact with allergens, but they can also be caused by imbalanced nutrient levels in the body.” He suggests that Mr. Hong undergo functional medicine testing, which reveals elevated levels of methylmalonic acid, indicating a deficiency of vitamin B12 and low levels of folic acid (vitamin B9). This indicates poor methylation metabolism, which leads to abnormal histamine metabolism and the manifestation of histamine intolerance and itching.

Dr. Yan Zuohua explains that histamine is a protective mechanism and neurotransmitter in the body. In addition to participating in immune responses, it also regulates intestinal function. If histamine levels are elevated, it can lead to allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, nasal congestion, fatigue, and flushing.

The main reasons for elevated histamine levels are as follows:

• Exposure to allergens: When the body comes into contact with allergens, it can cause excessive activation of immune cells, leading to the release of large amounts of histamine.
• Consumption of foods high in histamine: Certain foods such as cocoa and shellfish can promote histamine release. Additionally, some fermented foods contain high levels of histamine. Therefore, if these foods are consumed in large quantities and frequently, it can lead to high histamine levels.
• Abnormal histamine metabolism: A deficiency of nutrients required for histamine metabolism, such as B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C, can affect histamine metabolism and result in elevated histamine levels.

Here are five ways to improve histamine intolerance:

• Stabilize mast cells: Mast cells are primarily responsible for histamine secretion. Consuming foods containing quercetin, vitamin C, and resveratrol (such as onions and grapes) can help stabilize mast cells.
• Avoid excessive consumption of high-histamine foods: Fermented and pickled foods, chocolate, alcohol, and shellfish are not recommended.
• Improve gut health: Since histamine metabolism occurs both within cells and in the intestines, enhancing gut mucosa and balancing gut microbiota are crucial to avoiding high histamine levels.
• Supplement with nutrients to improve histamine metabolism: B vitamins, vitamin C, copper, zinc, and magnesium can be taken as dietary supplements.
• Be aware of medications that may affect B vitamin absorption: Medications such as diabetes drugs, antacids, and antibiotics can interfere with B vitamin absorption, leading to high histamine levels.

Dr. Yan Zuohua reminds us that many people subconsciously attribute itching to contact with allergens, but the causes of abnormal bodily conditions are diverse and sometimes complex. It is recommended to seek evaluation from a professional physician, objective testing, and the care of a professional team in order to truly alleviate the unbearable itching.

Source: Neowave