Histamine
Histamine is an endogenous chemical messenger that regulates immune responses, digestion, and the sleep-wake cycle. In women, estrogen influences histamine breakdown, which is why symptoms can intensify in a cycle-dependent manner.
Background
Histamine is both produced by the body and absorbed through food. It plays a central role in allergic reactions, stomach acid production, and signal transmission in the nervous system. The enzyme diaminoxidase (DAO) breaks down histamine in the gut. In women, estrogen can reduce DAO activity, which explains why histamine symptoms increase during certain cycle phases, in perimenopause, or under chronic stress. Common symptoms include skin flushing, headaches, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances.
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