Let’s start new year with an attempt to put a positive spin on this difficult illness and explore the question: are there any benefits to having high histamine? I know you might think what a bold question, and you may think there aren’t any benefits to suffering from high histamine and inflammation, but actually, there are some. Here’s what people with MCAS and histamine intolerance say:
Better Lifestyle
A major positive for many is that MCAS has forced them to clean up their diet and lifestyle and live as healthfully as possible. Eliminating processed foods, refined sugars, alcohol, and smoking, because the body won’t tolerate them. Many report that this forced health consciousness has extended beyond diet into sleep quality, stress management, and overall self-care practices they might never have prioritized otherwise.
Cognitive and Creative Benefits
Histamine plays a crucial role in brain function; the main role identified is waking the brain up and promoting alertness. Research suggests that people with slightly elevated histamine levels tend to be more productive and creative. Some individuals with MCAS report enhanced focus, mental clarity during “good windows,” and the ability to accomplish significant work in short times when they feel well. This can translate into creative problem-solving, detailed thinking, creativity and productivity.
Super nose sniffer power
Many people with high histamine describe having a “super nose sniffer power”—an enhanced ability to detect smells, tastes, and environmental sensitivities that others miss. While this can be challenging in a world full of fragrances and chemicals, it also means a greater appreciation for natural scents, fresh air, and food quality.
Financial Benefits
Paradoxically, MCAS and histamine intolerance can lead to significant financial savings. Many people report: Avoiding restaurant. Spending less on alcohol and processed foods. Saving on heating bills by naturally preferring cooler temperatures.
Immune Strength
Many people report having exceptionally strong immune systems- they rarely catch colds, flu, or other viruses, even COVID or had very mild cases.
Relationship Authenticity Benefits
MCAS and histamine intolerance act as a “friend filter.” Because the condition requires explaining and accommodating, people gravitate toward those who genuinely try to understand their health issues and don’t dismiss their concerns. Conversely, it clearly shows who doesn’t deserve your energy.
Weight Management and Other Health Benefits
Some people with MCAS report weight loss. Others experience improved blood pressure, better glucose control, and metabolic improvements once their diet is cleaned up and inflammatory triggers are removed.
Resilience and Wisdom
Perhaps the most profound “benefit” isn’t a single symptom or outcome, but rather the resilience, self-awareness and wisdom that comes from managing a chronic, invisible illness. People with MCAS often develop deep health literacy, and the ability to listen to their bodies in ways most people never learn. They become experts in their own physiology and psychology.
Whatabout your benefits?
References;
Histamine in the Regulation of Wakefulness https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3016451
Leave a Reply