Lactose and Histamine: The Hidden Connection

Did you know that lactose intolerance and diaminoxidase (DAO) enzyme deficiency often occur together? The genetic link between these two conditions is so strong that the presence of one significantly increases the likelihood of the other.

Why is this important?

• Lactose intolerance is the inability to properly digest lactose, resulting in gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, and cramps.

• DAO deficiency is the impaired ability to break down histamine, leading to symptoms such as bloating, headaches, skin reactions, and palpitations.

• When lactase activity is reduced, it causes damage to the intestinal lining, which further diminishes DAO activity. This results in histamine accumulation, which exacerbates symptoms and may lead to a misdiagnosis of allergies.

  
  

How to identify both conditions?

• Symptoms may not only occur after consuming dairy products, but also after consuming foods rich in histamine, such as red wine, smoked meats, tomatoes, and fermented foods.

• Reactions tend to worsen with stress or microbiome imbalances.

• Supplementation with diaminoxidase (DAO Prim) before meals can help reduce symptoms and prevent their development.

What steps should you take?

• Genetic testing: Mutations in the LCT (lactase) and AOC1 (DAO) genes are frequently found together.

• Dietary changes: Eliminate lactose and foods high in histamine from your diet. Keeping a food diary can be helpful in identifying triggers.

• Gut health support: Consider supporting your digestive system with probiotics and a diet low in histamine.

The connection between these two conditions is scientifically established, yet it is still under-discussed. Understanding this relationship could provide the key to resolving chronic symptoms and improving your quality of life.