25/12/2024
Diamine oxidase (DAO) might not be a household name, but it plays a crucial role in your body’s histamine regulation. DAO is an enzyme produced in the small intestine, where it breaks down histamine from foods and prevents it from entering your bloodstream. Without sufficient DAO activity, histamine can build up, leading to symptoms like headaches, nausea, flushing, or digestive discomfort.
DAO deficiency can occur for several reasons. Gut health issues such as leaky gut, IBS, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) can reduce DAO production. Certain medications, including pain relievers, antidepressants, and antihistamines, can also inhibit its function. Additionally, genetic factors may influence your body’s natural DAO levels.
Diet plays a key role in histamine balance. While DAO breaks down histamine, eating histamine-rich foods like aged cheese, alcohol, or fermented products can overwhelm the system, especially if DAO is compromised. Understanding the relationship between DAO and histamine is the first step toward managing symptoms and improving your quality of life.
Supporting DAO function involves a combination of dietary changes, gut health optimization, and sometimes supplementation. By addressing the root causes of DAO deficiency, you can restore balance and feel more in control of your health.