Diamine Oxidase (DAO), also known as the Diamine Oxidase enzyme, is an essential digestive enzyme in the body. Some people take DAO supplements to help manage their histamine intolerance, which can lead to migraines, headaches, intestinal issues, and skin conditions.
1. What is Diamine Oxidase (DAO)?
Diamine Oxidase (DAO) is an enzyme produced by the body that helps break down histamine in the foods you consume.
If your body does not produce enough Diamine Oxidase, you may experience a deficiency of this enzyme.
A deficiency in DAO may lead to histamine intolerance, also referred to as food histaminosis or intestinal histaminosis, which is characterized by the gradual buildup of histamine in the body.
Foods high in histamine include:
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Avocados
- Nuts
- Milk and soy
- Mushrooms
- Chocolate
- Shellfish (such as clams, mussels, oysters, and crabs)
- Eggs
- Oily fish and canned fish
- Strawberries
- Pineapple
Histamine intolerance differs from traditional food allergies, as it is not triggered by specific foods and does not result in immediate allergic reactions. Identifying which foods contribute to symptoms of histamine intolerance can be challenging.
Additionally, the body can produce histamine. If it accumulates excessively in the intestinal wall, it can be only partially metabolized, passing through intestinal cells into the bloodstream and causing specific symptoms such as:
- Migraines
- Edema
- Belching and bloating
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Nasal congestion
- Asthma
- Rash
2. Benefits of Diamine Oxidase Supplements
Diamine Oxidase supplements are available over-the-counter and aim to restore levels of this enzyme in your body. They help break down foods high in histamine, potentially reducing symptoms of histamine intolerance.
Research has indicated that DAO supplements may help relieve headaches, digestive issues, and skin reactions.
Although many studies have reported positive outcomes, further research is necessary to fully understand how DAO supplements function and their effectiveness in alleviating histamine intolerance symptoms for most individuals.
Migraines and Headaches: A study on individuals with frequent migraines who took DAO supplements for over a month found a significant reduction in the duration of migraine attacks by nearly 90 minutes.
Gastrointestinal Problems: Patients with histamine intolerance who utilized DAO supplements reported notable improvements in at least one gastrointestinal symptom.
However, this study involved a small group, warranting more extensive research to better explore the effects and mechanisms of DAO supplements.
In another study, patients with histamine intolerance who took DAO supplements for four weeks experienced fewer gastrointestinal symptoms, and those symptoms were significantly less severe compared to their conditions prior to supplementation.
Researchers suggest that DAO supplementation may help heal the intestinal mucosa.
Skin Conditions: DAO supplements may also help reduce symptoms associated with skin rashes. In a controlled study, individuals with low DAO levels and a history of chronic hives who used DAO supplements were able to decrease their reliance on antihistamine medications.
3. Caution When Using Diamine Oxidase Supplements
For individuals with histamine intolerance, diagnosing the condition can be challenging since no definitive tests or procedures exist. While diamine oxidase supplements may alleviate some symptoms, they may not be safe for those without histamine intolerance.
Additionally, there are no standardized production processes for diamine oxidase supplements. This results in a wide variety of products on the market, each with different recommendations, dosages, and often unclear labeling, which may pose safety concerns.
Some supplements are derived from animal kidney extracts, particularly from pigs. This is an important consideration for vegetarians or those adhering to dietary restrictions that exclude animal products.
There is insufficient research to fully understand how diamine oxidase supplements work and their safety profiles. More large-scale studies involving extended treatment periods with larger participant groups are necessary.
4. Alternatives to Diamine Oxidase Supplements
Several factors can contribute to histamine intolerance, but managing symptoms can often be achieved without taking diamine oxidase supplements by following a low-histamine diet. This diet can prevent a buildup of histamine in the body, potentially improving symptoms associated with histamine intolerance.
Clinical studies have indicated that adhering to a low-histamine diet can significantly enhance symptoms. Research shows that more than 50% of participants reported a reduction in symptoms when following this diet. However, some studies suggest that a low-histamine diet does not alter the activity of the enzyme diamine oxidase in the body.
There are no specific guidelines for those following a low-histamine diet since histamine is present in many different foods (as listed above). Individuals should focus on eliminating the foods that trigger the most symptoms for them.
5. Considerations Regarding Diamine Oxidase and Histamine Intolerance
Diamine oxidase is a crucial enzyme responsible for breaking down various foods. A deficiency in diamine oxidase can result in allergy-like symptoms, although it is not classified as a disease.
Rather than relying on diamine oxidase supplements, it is generally more effective to avoid foods high in histamine. If you are experiencing symptoms and are contemplating taking diamine oxidase supplements, it is advisable to consult with your doctor first.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
Reference source: webmd
