A healthy, low-histamine diet rich in nutrients plays an important role in managing systemic mastocytosis (SM). Choosing the right diet helps to avoid flare-ups and manage symptoms, but it also contributes to overall well-being and quality of life.
As with any lifestyle changes, ask your doctor before making any significant changes to your routine.
What is systemic mastocytosis?
Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a rare white cell blood disorder that affects the mast cells, causing them to multiply and build up in the body. Mast cells are part of the body’s immune system, and when they detect an allergen or bacteria, they trigger an immune response, releasing histamines and other chemicals into the bloodstream. For people with SM, these immune responses become excessive, causing a chemical overload. SM can affect the skin and internal organs, creating skin inflammation, itching and flushing, headaches, digestive issues, heart palpitations, joint pain and in severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur. There is no cure for this chronic disease, but symptoms can be managed through medication, diet and lifestyle.
Avoid food-related triggers
As in all chronic diseases, adopting a healthier lifestyle with SM is a key part of managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.
Though it may be difficult at first, people living with SM can become accustomed to adjusting their diet and lifestyle to avoid triggering symptom episodes. Potential triggers of a mast cell response can include fatigue, physical exertion, stress, emotional upset, insect bites, sudden changes in temperature, alcohol, drugs, some medication, skin friction and some foods.
What is a low-histamine diet?
A low-histamine diet encourages whole, natural foods that nourish the body without introducing harmful chemicals, such as whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats.
This diet excludes processed foods or pre-prepared meals, yogurts, aged cheeses, processed meats, certain fish, and fruits and vegetables that are naturally high in histamines. These include strawberries, citrus, pineapple, spinach and tomatoes. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks should also be avoided.
A nutritionist can help formulate meal plans that are adapted to your diagnosis, disease severity and lifestyle.
The positive effects of a healthier lifestyle
Adopting a nutritious diet, staying hydrated and taking dietary supplements such as probiotics, vitamin C, magnesium and quercetin can reinforce overall patient health and well-being. This can help patients manage SM symptoms and contribute to physical and emotional regulation.
Added to a healthy diet, regular low-impact physical activity is beneficial to managing cardiovascular health, boosting your mood and maintaining a healthy weight.
