Skin rash and nasal congestion? Possible allergic reactions under disguise

The relationship between nutrition and health is closely intertwined, and many people experience various unpleasant symptoms after consuming certain foods. In many cases, these symptoms are not true allergic reactions but indicate other types of issues that are worth understanding. During the process of breaking down food, histamine is often released, which can cause complaints in sensitive individuals. Histamine intolerance is becoming increasingly recognized, and it is important to be aware of which foods trigger such reactions and what can be done to alleviate the symptoms.

The release of histamine in the body occurs through the consumption of various foods, which can affect not only our eating habits but also our quality of life. When striving for a healthy diet, it is essential to consider those foods that most commonly cause complaints. The concept of pseudo-allergy is also becoming more widespread, which is not a true allergic reaction but can rather be interpreted as a digestive issue. A proper diet can provide a solution for managing such complaints.

Characteristics of Pseudo-Allergy

Pseudo-allergy is not an allergic reaction in the classical sense, as the immune system does not play a role in the development of symptoms. According to Dr. Katalin Balogh, an allergist, pseudo-allergy is actually a digestive disorder triggered by the consumption of histamine-rich foods or foods that promote the release of histamine. These complaints can appear relatively quickly after consumption, within 30-60 minutes, but it is also possible to experience them only a few days later.

The intensity of the symptoms varies and depends on the amount of food consumed. Additionally, the situation can be exacerbated if the body’s levels of diamine oxidase (DAO) are low, as this enzyme is responsible for breaking down histamine. If the DAO level is insufficient, histamine levels can rise, leading to various complaints such as skin rashes, nasal congestion, sneezing, or even facial swelling.

Histamine-Rich Foods

In managing histamine intolerance, it is crucial to be aware of the foods that are most likely to cause complaints. According to Dr. Katalin Balogh, many holiday foods contain or release histamine. These include various fish such as tuna, sardines, or smoked herring, as well as aged cheeses like camembert or roquefort.

Alcoholic beverages are also significant sources of histamine, particularly red wine, white wine, and beer. Furthermore, processed meats such as ham, salami, and smoked meats can contribute to the onset of complaints. Among vegetables and fruits, spinach, peas, lentils, and even tomatoes can be problematic. It is also worth paying attention to chocolate and egg whites, as these are also histamine-rich foods.

Treating Complaints with Diet

If someone suspects that their symptoms may be related to histamine issues, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Allergy tests may be necessary to establish a diagnosis, during which doctors attempt to rule out true allergic reactions. A negative blood test accompanied by characteristic symptoms may indicate pseudo-allergy. Often, internal medicine and gastroenterology evaluations are also required to understand the underlying causes of the complaints accurately.

Treatment options include strict adherence to a diet aimed at avoiding histamine-rich foods. In the long term, this may not always be sustainable, but with the right diet and, if necessary, supplementation of the DAO enzyme, symptoms can be significantly reduced. It is important to note that pseudo-allergy is not a lifelong condition, and by following certain rules, previously problematic foods can later be reintroduced into the diet.