What are Low Histamine Levels?

Low histamine is a chemical imbalance of the brain that occurs when excess copper accumulates and provokes overstimulation of the nervous system. Histamine regulates the release of dopamine in the part of the brain that controls sensory perception. When too little histamine is present, it can induce hallucinations, paranoia, and other symptoms because the brain is not processing stimuli properly.

Copper contains an enzyme that normally balances the amount of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin released by neurotransmitters in the brain. Too much copper in a person's system degrades the amount of available histamine, which controls the level of each chemical dispensed. As low histamine develops, it allows more copper to accumulate in the blood. Studies have shown that people with type A blood are more prone to collect excess copper.

Treatment for low histamine routinely includes a high protein diet. Protein contains an amino acid that converts histidine into histamine. Dietary supplements like vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium remove copper from the body to help bring histamine levels into the normal range. Niacin, vitamin B12, and folic acid also help regulate brain chemical levels.

Those suffering from low histamine commonly complain of low sex drive, hyperactivity, and anxiety. This brain disorder can also lead to hallucinations and paranoia because the brain chemicals are skewed. Bipolar disease and manic-depressive disorder have also been linked to low levels of histamine. Some patients with the condition have an abnormally high tolerance to pain. Hormonal changes after childbirth can also produce excess copper and might contribute to postpartum depression.

Physical symptoms of low histamine include excess facial and body hair and high blood pressure. Canker sore may develop, along with various food allergies. Low histamine can also induce depression and thoughts of suicide.

A histamine level that is too high is called histadelia. Histadelia sends neurotransmitters into overdrive with excess dopamine, serotonin, and norephinephrine released into the bloodstream. People with this disorder are commonly full of energy and driven to succeed. They can be compulsive overachievers who suffer from insomnia and exhibit a low tolerance to pain. Histadelia may increase sex drive and lead to sexual addictions.

It can also produce extra body heat that produces frequent sweating. In some patients, the ears, feet, nose, and hands may grow larger to disperse the additional body heat. Often, the second toe is longer than the big toe in people with the condition. People with high levels of histamine may produce very little body and facial hair.