Histamine-producing bacteria
Histamine-producing bacteria are gut microbes capable of converting the amino acid histidine into histamine, a biogenic amine that plays a central role in immune responses and allergic reactions. While histamine is an essential signalling molecule, excess production in the gut can contribute to symptoms resembling allergies, such as rashes, headaches, or digestive discomfort. These bacteria may thrive in the presence of chronic stress, poor gut barrier function, or diets rich in histidine-containing foods. Elevated levels are associated with conditions like histamine intolerance or pseudoallergies. Maintaining a balanced microbiome and proper gut barrier integrity may help reduce histamine load from microbial sources.
Description
These are specific gut microbes that convert the amino acid histidine into histamine, which can influence immune function and inflammatory responses.
Excessive histamine production by gut bacteria may contribute to symptoms such as bloating, skin reactions, headaches, or food intolerances, even without a classical allergy.
A high percentage indicates an overgrowth of histamine-producing microbes, which may suggest dysbiosis, increased intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"), or histamine intolerance.
It suggests that these microbes are not presently overactive or numerous, which may be beneficial for individuals with histamine sensitivity.
Diet, chronic stress, and microbial imbalance in the gut all contribute. Reducing histamine-rich foods and enhancing gut health may help regulate histamine production.
