DAO enzyme deficiency can increase the risk of migraine
The enzyme Diamine Oxidase (DAO) degrades and metabolizes histamine, a powerful vasodilator that causes adverse effects such as migraine; if it is not assimilated by our body.
The word migraine comes from the Greek hemikranía (hemi-middle and kraníon-cranium) and is a disorder of the cranial vessels, characterized by a normally unilateral and pulsating headache; accompanied by nausea and other symptoms. Migraine worsens with cranial mobility.
What is the relationship between diet and Migraine?
Different scientific studies place diet, and specifically the intake of histamine, as one of the possible causes of migraines. Eating foods that contain histamine is not a problem in itself, since under normal conditions it is broken down and metabolised by the enzyme Diamine Oxidase (DAO). The problem appears when our body is unable to metabolise it, causing adverse effects, including migraine.
Histamine is a powerful vasodilator that can cause a drop in blood pressure. It increases glandular secretion (sweat, saliva, etc.) and is one of the mediators of immediate hypersensitivity.
When there is a disproportion between the histamine ingested, or that released from the cells that store it in the body, and the capacity to metabolise it, an accumulation in the blood occurs and consequently the appearance of adverse effects.
Migraine study: DAO activity
Through a blood sample, the DAO test studies the activity of the enzyme Diamine Oxidase, to determine whether it is normal or has a deficiency.
You can find more information about this and other analytical tests at health store of Cerba Internacional.