"Dedication to Patient Care: But what's been consistent is my desire to really dig deep on people who may be told by their doctor that, sorry, there's nothing more we can do, or we're just not sure."

— Isabel Smith

Gut Health, Histamines, and You:

A Conversation with Isabel Smith

The intricate connection between gut health and histamines, and how this relationship can affect our overall health.

Introduction

In Episode 29 of the Discovery Doc Podcast, hosts Dr. CeCe and Annah Kate engaged in a compelling conversation with Isabel Smith, a registered dietitian specializing in holistic health approaches. The focal point of their discussion was the complex relationship between gut health and histamines, unraveling how this interplay can significantly impact our overall well-being.

Understanding Histamines

Isabel Smith initiated the dialogue by demystifying the complexities surrounding histamines. These compounds, varying in presentation among individuals, often lead to symptoms that are overlooked or misunderstood by conventional medicine. Histamine overproduction can contribute to serious health disorders, ranging from mast cell activation to mold toxicity. Notably, Isabel pointed out that those with a history of anaphylactic allergies might be prone to histamine-related problems.

Gut Health: The Epicenter of Histamine Issues

The conversation underscored the pivotal role of gut health in managing histamine-related problems. Conditions like severe eczema, allergies, and histamine issues were linked back to the health of our digestive system. The conversation highlighted how gut health influences hormonal balance and the breakdown of histamines, reinforcing the age-old adage 'you are what you eat.'

Histamine & Food: A Delicate Balance

Delving deeper into the discussion, the hosts and guest explored specific foods known to trigger histamine reactions, including citrus, peppers, avocados, vinegars, fermented, and even stale foods. Notably, certain cuisines, like Mexican, were identified as problematic for histamine-sensitive individuals. Isabel recommended starting with a low histamine diet to identify trigger foods, emphasizing that this approach, while helpful, doesn't address the root issue entirely.

Holistic Solution: Gut Health Restoration

While probiotics are commonly known to aid gut health, Isabel highlighted the often-overlooked importance of regular bowel movements. She stressed the significance of maintaining a healthy gut by consuming a variety of fibrous foods and allowing the body adequate time to rest and digest optimally. Overeating and continuous grazing, she warned, can strain the digestive system.

Personal Experience with Lyme Disease

Isabel shared her personal journey with Lyme disease, a compelling example of the need for holistic approaches in complex medical cases. Her experiences fuel her dedication to functional medicine, focusing on addressing underlying causes rather than merely treating symptoms.

Wrapping up

The holistic approach to health, as Isabel emphasized, involves acknowledging small improvements and setting realistic expectations. Healing the gut is a gradual process, often taking a year or more. Regular consultations with a healthcare practitioner and diligent symptom tracking contribute to positive progress and a healthier mindset.

Relishing the insights shared during this podcast episode, Isabel offered valuable guidance on navigating histamine and gut health issues, accessible through her Instagram account, "Isabel Smith's Nutrition," and her podcast, "Well Fuel."

The Discovery Doc Podcast Episode 29 serves as an enlightening resource on a crucial health issue, reminding us that prioritizing gut health is non-negotiable, as it significantly influences other vital aspects of our well-being.

Healthy Gut Practices for Histamine Overproduction: A Holistic Guide

Healthy Gut Practices : A Holistic Guide Checklist

• Understand that histamine problems may present differently in each person.

• Focus on enhancing gut health to resolve related health issues.

• Regulate diamine oxidase and quercetin intake to reduce histamine levels.

• Avoid common histamine triggers like certain fresh produce, fermented and old foods.

• Start with a low histamine diet to identify personal triggers.

• Prioritize digestion time by avoiding constant eating.

• Maintain a healthy gut microbiome by feeding it various fibers.

• Monitor progress of gut health improvement and skin conditions.

• Remember recovery may take as long as a year; have realistic expectations and acknowledge small improvements.

• Seek guidance from a holistic health practitioner for a personal health plan.

• Consult Isabel Smith on Instagram or her website for more resources.