All 885 tips from all chapters, sorted by topic and confidence score. See what is well supported and what is still experimental.
| Topic | Established | Well supported | Promising | Plausible | Experimental |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gut barrier | 3 | 7 | 30 | 29 | 7 |
| Opportunistic pathogens | 8 | 42 | 31 | 26 | 12 |
| Bacteriophages | 1 | 2 | 5 | 7 | |
| Microbial diversity | 9 | 22 | 62 | 65 | 9 |
| Gut-brain axis | 4 | 18 | 36 | 38 | 3 |
| Digestive function | 22 | 51 | 71 | 64 | 9 |
| Small intestine colonisation | 1 | 12 | 21 | 27 | 4 |
| Immune system and inflammation | 10 | 21 | 42 | 45 | 9 |
| Total | 57 | 174 | 295 | 299 | 60 |
Tap a number to see the tips below. Darker cells contain more tips.
Immune system and inflammation · Clear selection
Trust score 5 of 5:Established Lifestyle
The LEAP study showed that early, regular peanut greatly reduces allergies in high-risk children. In children with severe atopic eczema or known egg allergy, introduction should be supervised by a doctor. Recommendations on age differ by country; ask your paediatrician.
Allergies and intolerances: how the gut learns to tolerate food 1 sources
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The European guideline recommends: first a detailed history, then a skin prick test or specific IgE in the blood, and if needed tests for allergen components. If results are unclear, a medically supervised challenge test is the gold standard. A positive test without matching symptoms does not mean an allergy.
Allergies and intolerances: how the gut learns to tolerate food 1 sources
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Blood in the stool, diarrhoea for weeks, symptoms at night, weight loss or fever need investigating. A low calprotectin in the stool speaks strongly against IBD, but a raised one does not prove it. The diagnosis is confirmed by colonoscopy with tissue samples, in Crohn’s disease supplemented by an examination of the small intestine, for example by MRI or ultrasound.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 3 sources
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In mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, mesalazine, as tablets or suppositories, is the foundation. Steroids help in a flare but are not for long-term use because of their side effects. For maintenance there are immunomodulators, biologics against certain messengers or against the migration of immune cells, and newer tablets such as JAK inhibitors. Which drug suits depends on the form, severity, age and other conditions. Immunomodulators, biologics and JAK inhibitors dampen the immune defence and raise the risk of infections; some have other rare risks. Before starting, vaccination status and tuberculosis are therefore checked, followed by regular monitoring. For most people the benefit outweighs the risks, because untreated inflammation causes harm too.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 3 sources
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In children, exclusive liquid formula for six to eight weeks is the recommended first treatment. It calms the inflammation about as well as steroids, without their effects on growth. After that, maintenance therapy usually follows, along with a gradual return to normal food.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 1 sources
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Persistent joint pain, skin rashes or diarrhoea with blood should be examined by a doctor.
Eating against silent inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 5 of 5:Established Medical treatments
The guideline recommends measuring total IgA together with the transglutaminase antibodies. With IgA deficiency, IgG-based tests are used. Important: do not eat gluten-free before the test.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 1 sources
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Faecal calprotectin and CRP in the blood help distinguish inflammatory bowel disease from IBS.
Immune system and inflammation 1 sources
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With itchy blisters on elbows, knees or buttocks, get tested first, then go gluten-free. Cutting out gluten beforehand distorts the tests. With confirmed dermatitis herpetiformis, a lifelong gluten-free diet is the most important treatment.
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Dermatitis herpetiformis is confirmed with a skin biopsy showing typical IgA deposits, together with coeliac antibodies in the blood. If confirmed, the gut also needs medical follow-up.
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Allergy societies explicitly advise against them. IgG against foods is a normal reaction to what you eat, not a sign of an intolerance.
Allergies and intolerances: how the gut learns to tolerate food 2 sources
Trust score 4 of 5:Well supported Medical treatments
Coeliac disease is clearly more common with both and often causes few symptoms. A blood test for tissue transglutaminase antibodies while you are eating gluten will clarify this. Iron deficiency, bloating, diarrhoea or hormone levels that are hard to keep stable are further reasons to test.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 3 sources
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With Hashimoto's, type 1 diabetes, or vitamin B12 or iron deficiency without a clear cause, autoimmune gastritis may be behind it. Antibodies against parietal cells and intrinsic factor in the blood give clues; it is confirmed by gastroscopy. After that, lifelong vitamin B12 and regular check-ups are usually needed.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 2 sources
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Smoking not only increases the risk of developing Crohn’s disease but also makes its course more severe. Quitting is among the most effective things people can do themselves, and guidelines explicitly recommend support for it. In ulcerative colitis, smoking does protect against developing the disease, but because of all its other harms it is not a treatment.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 2 sources
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Have iron, vitamin B12, folate and vitamin D checked regularly. With active inflammation or severe anaemia, the European guideline often recommends iron as an infusion, because tablets are then absorbed and tolerated less well. After surgery on the end of the small intestine, vitamin B12 injections are often needed long term.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 1 sources
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In Crohn’s disease with a risk of a severe course, strong treatment started early led to clearly more remissions and fewer operations than stepping up gradually. The goal is a healed lining and a normal calprotectin, not just fewer symptoms. Talk to your care team about how you will measure success.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 3 sources
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Anyone who has had ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease in the colon for some time should go for regular surveillance colonoscopies. When and how often depends on duration, extent and other conditions such as inflammation of the bile ducts. Ask your care team about the right schedule.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 2 sources
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The problem is not the animal but its faeces. Wash your hands after poop bags, the litter box and gardening, and cover sandpits. Keep puppies and animals with diarrhoea away from small children until they are better. Empty the litter box daily. If you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system, ask your doctor what precautions you need.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 2 sources
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Roundworms from dogs and cats can pass to humans, especially children. How often to deworm or test the stool depends on the animal, its lifestyle and the country; ask your vet for a suitable plan. Remove faeces from the garden and play areas promptly.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 1 sources
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Whether there is inflammation in the gut is shown not by a feeling but by a stool test for calprotectin, plus blood values such as CRP. If you have persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, weight loss or blood in the stool, have it checked before experimenting with diets on your own.
Eating against silent inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 4 of 5:Well supported Medical treatments
With a diagnosed disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, diet is part of treatment, but not instead of medication. A dietitian experienced with these diseases helps avoid deficiencies and handle flare phases properly.
Eating against silent inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 4 of 5:Well supported Lifestyle
In IBS, gut-directed psychotherapy, exercise and an adapted diet are proven to help. LDN is, if anything, an add-on, not a replacement.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 1 sources
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Naltrexone can make opioid painkillers ineffective and trigger withdrawal. Before surgery or pain treatment, tell the care team that you take LDN.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 1 sources
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Tryptase should be measured as soon as possible, within a few hours of an attack, and also when symptom-free. Only the comparison shows a rise. Experts also recommend specifically checking for allergies, mastocytosis and other causes before the diagnosis is made.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 3 sources
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In 100 healthy people, the mast cell count in the colon lining varied so much that it overlapped with that in IBS. A “raised” value in a biopsy is therefore not proof. A biopsy is useful for detecting mastocytosis with special stains.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 1 sources
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In irritable bowel syndrome, an adapted diet, exercise and gut-directed psychotherapy or hypnosis are proven to help. PEA is, if anything, an add-on.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 1 sources
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Before you dampen abdominal pain with a product, it should be clear where it comes from. Warning signs such as blood in the stool, unintended weight loss, symptoms at night or fever always belong in medical hands.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 1 sources
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In Crohn's disease, the Mediterranean diet worked just as well as SCD in the large comparison trial and is much easier to stick to. The US society AGA recommends it for most people with inflammatory bowel disease.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do 2 sources
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For children and teenagers with Crohn's disease, exclusive formula and the Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet with formula are proven therapies. They are run with gastroenterology and a dietitian and have a fixed end.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do 2 sources
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Feeling better on a diet does not rule out inflammation in the gut. Faecal calprotectin and check-ups show whether the disease is really quiet. Do not stop medication on your own.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do 2 sources
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With psoriasis and persistent diarrhoea, blood in the stool or abdominal pain at night, think of inflammatory bowel disease; faecal calprotectin is a first test. Before starting some biologics, such as IL-17 inhibitors, mention any gut symptoms: new bowel inflammation is rare under them, but has been described.
Trust score 3 of 5:Promising Medical treatments
In infants, spitting up and crying are very common and mostly harmless. Acid blockers and antibiotics have their place, but should only be given for a clear reason, also because of the possible link with allergies.
Allergies and intolerances: how the gut learns to tolerate food 2 sources
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With Hashimoto's or type 1 diabetes, get tested for coeliac disease first, while you are still eating gluten. Without coeliac disease, a gluten-free diet did not reliably lower thyroid antibodies in four small studies with a total of 87 women. A time-limited trial is possible if you feel better on it, but it is not a must.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 2 sources
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Take the tablet on an empty stomach with water and keep a gap to coffee, breakfast, iron or calcium supplements, ideally the same way every day. If you take acid blockers long term, keep this in mind, because without acid the tablet dissolves less well.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 1 sources
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In the large VITAL trial with almost 26,000 men aged 50 and over and women aged 55 and over, 22 percent fewer people developed a new autoimmune disease with vitamin D than with placebo. The result was just significant; omega-3 alone did not help clearly. Correcting a deficiency makes sense, high doses without a blood test do not.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 1 sources
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A meta-analysis of 32 randomised trials found that selenium lowers TPO antibodies and, in people not taking hormone tablets, slightly lowers TSH as well. Whether people feel better was inconsistent, and whether lower antibodies change the course of the disease has not been shown. Too much selenium is harmful, so do not take high doses long term and discuss it with your doctor.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 1 sources
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In spondyloarthritis the gut lining is often inflamed without anyone noticing, and inflammatory bowel diseases are more common. If you also have abdominal pain, diarrhoea or blood in your stool, bring it up. A stool test for calprotectin is a simple first step.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 2 sources
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In a study with 194 people with Crohn’s disease, a Mediterranean diet worked just as well as the much stricter Specific Carbohydrate Diet. American professional societies therefore recommend a Mediterranean diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, olive oil and fish and few ultra-processed foods. With narrowings in the gut, separate rules apply; fibrous foods are then often unfavourable.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 3 sources
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The Crohn’s disease exclusion diet leaves out certain foods and additives for a few weeks and is often combined with a liquid formula. In children it helped in a randomised trial; in adults with mild to moderate Crohn’s, around 60 percent were in remission after six weeks in a small pilot study. It should be done with a dietitian and medical supervision, not instead of treatment.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 2 sources
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Anxiety and low mood are common in IBD and worsen symptoms and fatigue. In studies, new stress preceded flares. In a study with 116 people with Crohn’s disease, a three-month programme of cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness improved quality of life and fatigue, most of all in those who were heavily burdened at the start. Support groups help many people live with an illness that stays.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 3 sources
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A particular Escherichia coli strain (Nissle 1917) prevented relapses for a year about as well as mesalazine, the standard drug, in a study with 327 people with ulcerative colitis. Some countries approve it as a medicine; ask in your country. In Crohn’s disease, probiotics have shown no benefit in studies.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 2 sources
Trust score 3 of 5:Promising Medical treatments
In active ulcerative colitis, more people reached remission with donor stool than with placebo in studies, in an Australian study 32 versus 9 percent. According to Cochrane, however, the evidence is still weak, and whether the effect lasts is unclear. In Crohn’s disease, good studies are lacking. Only in studies or specialised centres, never do-it-yourself.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 2 sources
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Histamine is formed by bacteria during storage. Use fish and meat fresh, chill or freeze leftovers quickly.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 1 sources
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If inflammation, coeliac disease or an infection is behind it, DAO can recover once the cause is treated. A strict long-term low-histamine diet is then often unnecessary.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 2 sources
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DAO in the blood only roughly reflects DAO in the gut. What counts is a food diary, a low-histamine trial phase and ruling out other causes.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 2 sources
Trust score 3 of 5:Promising Medical treatments
With persistently low DAO or a newly appeared intolerance, coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth should be considered. Treating them often treats the DAO weakness too.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 1 sources
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A dog is a reliable reason to walk every day, even in the rain. Dog owners reach the recommended 150 minutes of activity per week much more often, and exercise keeps the gut moving and lowers stress. If you have no dog of your own, you can walk one from the neighbourhood or an animal shelter.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 2 sources
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If an animal is part of the family anyway, there is, as far as we know today, no reason to keep a baby away from it; large studies found rather fewer allergies and infections. Getting a pet just to prevent allergies is not supported by evidence, and an animal is a commitment for many years. If someone in the family already has a pet allergy, get medical advice first.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 3 sources
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Raw-fed dogs shed resistant gut bacteria more often. If a baby, a pregnant person or someone with a weakened immune system lives in the household, cooked or commercial food is the safer choice. If you feed raw, handle the food like raw meat for people: separate boards, wash bowls hot, wash hands afterwards.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 2 sources
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If you or your child have diarrhoea for a longer time, tell the doctor whether a new animal has come into the home, especially a puppy, or whether the animal itself has diarrhoea. That helps to think of germs like Campylobacter and to test for them specifically.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 1 sources
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Vegetables, legumes, olive oil, nuts, fish and whole grains. Well studied and practical for everyday life. It is not about a country or a list but about the pattern: mostly plant-based, little sugar, red and processed meat rarely.
Eating against silent inflammation 1 sources
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Eat not only more but more varied: different vegetables, legumes, nuts, herbs and whole-grain types. Each plant feeds different bacteria. Increase slowly so the gut can adapt, otherwise you will bloat.
Eating against silent inflammation 1 sources
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Soft drinks, iced tea and energy drinks were among the foods with the clearest link in the large cohort study. Water, unsweetened tea or coffee are the easiest swap.
Eating against silent inflammation 1 sources
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Allergies, coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease and mast cell disorders can cause similar symptoms.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven no source of its own, score based on judgement
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Values of affected and healthy people overlap strongly. A diagnosis should not be based on it alone.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven 2 sources
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Some medicines inhibit DAO in the lab or release histamine. If symptoms began with a new drug, talk to your doctor or pharmacist instead of stopping it yourself.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven 1 sources
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Preformed vitamin A is found in liver, eggs, dairy products and fish, and its precursor beta-carotene in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and green leafy vegetables. If you eat a varied diet, you are usually well supplied. According to EFSA, people stay below the upper limit if they eat liver and offal at most once a month; anyone pregnant or planning a pregnancy should avoid liver products altogether.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 2 sources
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For a proven deficiency or in regions where deficiency is common, vitamin A is well supported. With a normal diet, an extra supplement brings nothing for the gut's defences according to current knowledge, but it can do harm. The upper limit for adults is 3000 micrograms of preformed vitamin A a day; in pregnancy only after consulting a doctor.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 2 sources
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If you have conspicuously frequent respiratory infections, recurring gut infections such as Giardia or several autoimmune diseases, you can have your blood immunoglobulins measured. There is no IgA replacement; the consequences are treated.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 2 sources
Trust score 3 of 5:Promising Medical treatments
If you make little IgA or often have infections, you benefit especially from up-to-date vaccination protection. Ask your doctor which vaccinations are recommended in your country.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it no source of its own, score based on judgement
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In a one-year study with 612 older people, a Mediterranean diet changed the gut microbiota. The bacteria it promoted were linked to lower inflammatory markers.
Immune system and inflammation 1 sources
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In a randomised trial, they lowered 19 of the 93 inflammatory markers measured.
Immune system and inflammation 1 sources
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Lack of sleep raises inflammatory markers in the blood. Enough sleep has a calming effect on the immune system. Regular sleep times also help the gut's internal clock.
Immune system and inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
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Many different plants per week feed many groups of bacteria that give the immune system calming signals. This means vegetables, fruit, legumes, nuts, whole grains, herbs. Increase slowly if your gut is sensitive.
Immune system and inflammation 1 sources
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If you are ill unusually often, have long-lasting infections or several autoimmune symptoms at once, you can have this checked by a doctor, for example with a blood count and immunoglobulins. Behind it there may be a treatable immune deficiency or coeliac disease.
Immune system and inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 3 of 5:Promising Medical treatments
The largest placebo-controlled trial so far showed no healing of the lining. Stopping an effective therapy in favour of LDN can fuel inflammation and complications.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 3 sources
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The two largest trials found no meaningful difference from placebo for pain. Exercise and other proven treatments remain the foundation.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 2 sources
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Stress can activate mast cells in the gut via the hormone CRH and make the lining more permeable. Relaxation techniques, sleep and gut-directed psychotherapy target exactly this point.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 1 sources
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In a study of 55 people with IBS, the antihistamine ebastine brought considerable relief over 12 weeks in 46 per cent, compared with 13 per cent on placebo, and reduced abdominal pain. A trial is reasonable with medical supervision; it is not yet a standard treatment in the guidelines.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 1 sources
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Most studies are on nerve and joint pain. On average the benefit was moderate, and the trials were small and varied. Here too: set a goal and take stock after a few weeks.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 2 sources
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Decide beforehand: what goal, how long at most, how you will measure success. Then reintroduce one at a time. Whatever makes no difference after the test goes back on the plate.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do 2 sources
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People with a narrowing of the gut due to Crohn's disease sometimes need to watch coarse fibre and cook vegetables soft or puree them. That is a medically justified change in texture, not a list of forbidden foods.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do 1 sources
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People who have eaten strictly for a long time often need help widening their diet. A dietitian plans the order, checks nutrients and notices if fear of food is creeping in.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do 2 sources
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Inflamed, cracked skin is a gateway for allergens. According to the skin hypothesis, good skin care and treatment of eczema in infants is one building block of prevention. The evidence is not yet clear-cut.
Allergies and intolerances: how the gut learns to tolerate food 1 sources
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The World Allergy Organization suggests probiotics for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and infants at high risk of allergy, mainly to prevent eczema. The recommendation is conditional and the evidence very uncertain; which strains are best is open. Probiotics do not cure an existing allergy.
Allergies and intolerances: how the gut learns to tolerate food 1 sources
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A gut microbiome that ferments fibre into short-chain fatty acids supports the braking Tregs. Many different plants, pulses and whole grains are the simplest foundation for this. That this prevents or improves autoimmune disease is not proven, but it does no harm.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 2 sources
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On the autoimmune protocol (AIP) a great deal is cut out and then reintroduced step by step. In a small study of women with Hashimoto's without a control group, quality of life improved, the antibodies did not. If you try it, plan a fixed end, ideally with a dietitian, so that no deficiencies develop (see the chapter “SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol”).
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 2 sources
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In a meta-analysis of six small studies, twice as many people reached remission with curcumin in addition to mesalazine. The studies are small, the products varied, and healing of the lining was not reliably shown. Only as an add-on and after discussion, not as a replacement.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: understanding inflammatory bowel disease 2 sources
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Histamine, other amines and alcohol together, such as red wine with aged cheese or salami, put the most strain on DAO. Better to test one at a time what you tolerate.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 1 sources
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In your diary, note medicines, alcohol, sleep and stress alongside food. This shows whether a drug or a combination accompanies the symptoms before you cut out foods.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food no source of its own, score based on judgement
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Taken shortly before eating, they are meant to break down histamine in the gut. In a controlled trial with 100 migraine patients they shortened attacks by 1.4 hours, placebo by 0.9 hours. Smaller studies without a control group report fewer symptoms. Well tolerated.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 2 sources
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Because DAO needs copper, copper is often named as the solution. A deficiency is rare, too much copper does harm, and in the storage disease Wilson’s disease it is dangerous. High zinc doses can also displace copper. Have it measured first, then decide.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food no source of its own, score based on judgement
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If symptoms began with a drug from the list, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. There are often alternatives.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 1 sources
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Petting, looking at each other, sitting side by side: in small studies cortisol and pulse fell, and heart rate variability as a sign of an active vagus nerve rose. For gut symptoms that get worse with stress, this can be a pleasant building block. It does not replace treatment.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 3 sources
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Cook for yourself where you can. Long ingredient lists with additives are a sign of highly processed products. A practical start: replace sugary drinks and snacks, not everything at once. It does not have to be perfect; what counts is what is on the plate most of the time.
Eating against silent inflammation 1 sources
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Oily fish twice a week is the easiest way. Supplements only after consultation, especially if you take blood thinners. If you do not eat fish, algae oil is an alternative; whether capsules lower inflammation in the gut is not well established for gut diseases.
Eating against silent inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
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Eat low-histamine for two to four weeks and keep a symptom diary. Then reintroduce foods step by step. This is a trial, not proof of histamine intolerance, ideally with support from a dietitian. A permanent strict diet is not supported by evidence.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven 2 sources
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Histamine forms during ripening and storage and is not destroyed by cooking. Fresh fish and freshly cooked meals contain much less than leftovers or canned food. Let leftovers cool at once and freeze them.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven no source of its own, score based on judgement
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Red wine and sparkling wine contain histamine, and alcohol inhibits its breakdown.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven no source of its own, score based on judgement
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After the trial phase, reintroduce one food at a time and observe for several days instead of everything at once. The overall context matters: if you react only to red wine in the evening but tolerate cheese during the day, you usually do not need a permanent diet. Also note whether sleep, stress or your cycle play a part.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven 1 sources
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Mast cells respond to stress and lack of sleep with more histamine release. Regular rest, exercise and a fixed sleep rhythm can raise the threshold. Evidence for this in humans is limited.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven no source of its own, score based on judgement
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In a controlled study with 100 migraine patients, DAO capsules shortened attacks slightly more than placebo; smaller studies without a comparison group report fewer symptoms. Many people affected report that the capsules clearly help with individual histamine-rich meals. A benefit is therefore possible, but small in studies. More in the chapter on DAO.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven 1 sources
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Recurring attacks with dizziness, shortness of breath, swelling, a very fast pulse or fainting should be examined medically, including for allergy and mast cell disorders. There are blood tests for this, best taken during or shortly after an attack.
Histamine intolerance: much searched, little proven 1 sources
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Breast milk provides secretory IgA, which helps shape the early gut flora. The link with later protection has mainly been shown in mice. Breastfeeding is recommended for many reasons; if you cannot breastfeed, you should not blame yourself for it.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
IgA is stimulated by gut bacteria, and a diverse flora supplies more stimuli. Varied plant-based food with fibre and fermented foods is therefore the obvious route, even though a direct effect on IgA has not yet been shown in humans.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
Vitamin D plays a part in the immune system, but an effect on gut IgA has not been shown in humans. In IBS, the studies on vitamin D are mixed. A deficiency can be measured and corrected; the upper limit is 100 micrograms (4000 IU) a day.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 2 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
In small studies, omega-3 fatty acids change the composition of the gut flora, for example more butyrate producers. Whether this affects IgA production has not been studied. Oily fish once or twice a week is a sensible approach; a capsule specifically for IgA is not.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Medical treatments
Some labs offer “sIgA in stool” as a marker of mucosal defence. No study was found showing that the value improves diagnosis or treatment. The values vary a lot, for example with stress and infections.
IgA: the antibody that keeps the gut clean, and what vitamin A, D and omega-3 have to do with it no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
Regular moderate exercise is linked to lower inflammatory markers and a more diverse gut flora. Extreme strain without breaks can have the opposite effect.
Immune system and inflammation 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
In meta-analyses, vitamin D somewhat improved IBS symptoms, but the studies were small and very different. Useful mainly if a deficiency has been confirmed.
Immune system and inflammation 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
They help regulate inflammation. For gut symptoms the effects are inconsistent.
Immune system and inflammation no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
If you agree on a trial with your doctor: decide beforehand which symptom should improve, keep a diary and set a date for review. Experts suggest exactly such single-person trials to find out who responds.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
The body’s own pain dampening depends on sleep, measured exercise and recovery. If you improve these basics and still want to try afterwards, you can better separate effect from expectation. In long Covid and fatigue: increase load only as far as you are not worse the next day.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Medical treatments
Most sensible when well-supported treatments have been exhausted. Clarify together: off-label use and costs, side effects such as vivid dreams and sleep problems, and how you will measure success after a few weeks.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 2 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Medical treatments
Before starting, liver and kidney values should be known, and your doctor should know all other medications, especially painkillers, cough and diarrhoea remedies, which may contain opioids. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and liver disease are reasons for particular caution.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Medical treatments
Decide beforehand what “better” means, for example a diary score or a number of pain-free days. If nothing measurable has changed after the agreed time, stopping is a reasonable decision, not a failure. Carrying on out of hope does not make it work.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
Typical triggers of mast cell symptoms are heat, alcohol, certain painkillers, exertion, stress and, for some people, individual foods. A diary over a few weeks shows what really plays a role for you, instead of cutting out a lot as a precaution.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
A low-histamine diet reduces histamine from food, not histamine from mast cells. If you try it, do so for two to four weeks with a clear assessment and then reintroduce foods.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Medical treatments
In a study of 60 people with IBS, the mast cell stabiliser ketotifen reduced the gut's hypersensitivity and the symptoms. Whether this was due to the stabilisation or the antihistamine effect remained open. Availability and approval differ by country. Common side effects are drowsiness and weight gain.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
If you want to try PEA: decide beforehand on one symptom, such as pain days per week, keep a diary for two weeks without the product and then test for a fixed period. The studies ran for 12 weeks. If nothing measurable has changed by then, stopping is the sensible decision.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 2 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
Egg yolk, peanuts and some other foods contain PEA, but in amounts far below those in the studies. Eating more of them does not replace a product and is no reason to change your diet.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 1 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
Two small studies with PEA plus polydatin suggest less abdominal pain, more clearly in children than in adults. The combination was tested, not PEA alone, and independent confirmation is missing. If you try it, talk to your doctor, especially for children.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 3 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
Many products contain clearly more than the 350 mg a day that a Danish authority considered shown safe for healthy adults. That does not mean more is harmful, but it is simply little studied, especially over months. Better avoid it in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Whether micronised is better has not been tested in humans.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 2 sources
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
Less white bread, sweets and sugary drinks, more wholegrains, pulses and vegetables. This is good for the gut too. A small randomised trial showed fewer acne lesions; the effect cannot be reliably separated from the weight loss that came with it.
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Lifestyle
If you drink a lot of milk and have acne, you can try a phase with less milk and watch your skin. Yoghurt and cheese were unremarkable in studies. If you cut down a lot on dairy, make sure you get calcium from other sources.
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
According to the Cochrane review, the probiotics tested so far probably make little difference to existing eczema. Money and hope are better spent on good skin care and treatment.
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Natural supplements
Three double-blind trials with a total of 231 people suggest slightly fewer inflamed spots, with great uncertainty. Usually well tolerated as an add-on, but no replacement for dermatological treatment.
Trust score 2 of 5:Plausible Medical treatments
If you have rosacea along with bloating, diarrhoea or abdominal pain, you can talk to your doctor about a breath test for bacterial overgrowth and possible rifaximin treatment. The evidence rests on small studies; without gut symptoms this is not a rosacea treatment. Whether rifaximin is approved for this varies by country.
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
Research is looking for bacteria that calm the immune system. So far there is no capsule that has been shown to prevent or improve an autoimmune disease. If you take probiotics for other reasons you can do so, but do not expect an effect on the autoimmune disease.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 2 sources
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Medical treatments
In a small randomised trial of 20 young adults with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, the body's own insulin production was better preserved after a transplant of their own stool than with donor stool, an unexpected result. For hair loss there are case reports. It is not a treatment for any autoimmune disease, and do-it-yourself faecal transplants are dangerous.
Autoimmune diseases and the gut: Hashimoto's, vitiligo, type 1 diabetes and more 3 sources
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
Sprouts of peas, lentils and chickpeas contain plant DAO; germination raises activity up to 250-fold. Only studied in the lab so far. Yeasts and mould can grow during sprouting, so pay attention to hygiene.
DAO: the enzyme that intercepts histamine from food 2 sources
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
Lactobacillus johnsonii protected mice against allergic reactions of the airways. No product reproduces the effect of a dog in the home in humans, and nothing like it has been tested. If a product claims this, it is marketing, not a finding.
Dogs and cats: what pets do to your gut, immune system and nerves 1 sources
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
There is no over-the-counter product that works like LDN. “No prescription” offers online are risky because content and dose are not controlled.
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): hope, studies and limits no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
These substances are often sold as “mast cell stabilisers”. There are lab experiments for this, but no good studies in people with gut symptoms. If you try them, treat it as a trial with a fixed end.
Mast cells: alarm cells in the gut, histamine and the disputed MCAS no source of its own, score based on judgement
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
That PEA calms mast cells has been shown in cells and animals, but not studied in people with mast cell activation or histamine intolerance. A trial here is an experiment, not a proven path.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 1 sources
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Medical treatments
For inflammatory bowel diseases there are so far only animal and lab results. The ongoing trial tests PEA in addition to standard therapy, not instead of it. Tell your care team if you take PEA.
PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): the body's own inflammation brake in a capsule 2 sources
Trust score 1 of 5:Experimental Natural supplements
Broth is a good, light food. That it "seals" the gut lining, as GAPS guides promise, has not been studied.
SCD, GAPS and the autoimmune protocol: what strict elimination diets can and cannot do no source of its own, score based on judgement