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 a necessary signaling molecule, excess production in the gut can contribute to symptoms resembling allergies, such as rashes, headaches, or digestive discomfort. These bacteria may flourish 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.
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 suggests overgrowth of histamine-producing microbes, which may point to dysbiosis, increased gut permeability ("leaky gut"), or histamine intolerance.
It suggests that these microbes are not currently overactive or abundant, which may be favorable for individuals with histamine sensitivity.
Diet, chronic stress, and microbial imbalance in the gut all play a role. Reducing histamine-rich foods and improving gut health may help balance histamine production.