www.facebook.com/groups/417030973601268This weeks’ article comes thanks to one of my members in my Free Facebook group for carers of children with gut and/or skin issues. She asked for exactly what it says in the title. Ideas for gently supporting gut health whilst appealing to a fussy eater. 
 
At first glance it may appear that this article is only aimed at children, but it isn’t. You would be surprised how many adults have quite distinctive likes and dislikes when it comes to food. So, this is a great topic to tackle because it effects so many of us, whether we are a parent of a fussy eater, or whether we aren’t that keen on a few foods ourselves. 
 
Last thing before I delve properly into the topic.  My belief is that fussy eaters are born and not made and so I want to take any of notion of guilt straight out of the equation. This is the little anecdote that brought me to that conclusion: 
 
My first-born loves all food, a lot. As an infant/young child he was never happier than when he was eating, and we were amazed by how adventurous he was, so young. I of course, as a first-time parent, foolishly thought that this had something to do with my parenting skills.  As I was soon to find out, my son was born loving food, it had absolutely diddly squat to do with me.
 
My daughter then arrived, and if I was a suspicious sort, I would think that she came specifically to teach me a lesson. Food didn’t interest her. She didn’t like lumps right from the start – baby porridge was a no-no, she just spat it out. She would only eat vegetables that came from tins, and she could outlast my patience at the table, by a considerable mile. She was born suspicious of most foods and there was nothing I could do to change it. 
 
Well, I did manage, but it took years.  She is part of the reason I retrained as a Registered Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, I needed to know more, so I could feed her better. You’ll be pleased to hear that she now eats an amazing variety of foods and cooks for most of her friends. She still doesn’t like yogurts with ‘bits’, however. 
 
Anyway, enough digression. Today’s article is all about which nutrients are helpful to support gut health generally and some tips on how to subtlety incorporate them in the diet so that it slips past the most vigilant of fussy eaters. 
 
A quick overview of our digestive system and what it needs for health.
 
Before we get into the nutrients and tips, just a quick overview of the gut. The gut runs all the way from our mouth to our bottom. Digestion starts in the mouth, specifically for carbohydrates (bread, pasta, flour-based products, potatoes etc), once swallowed the food passes via the oesophagus and is drip fed into the stomach. It then passes through into the small intestine, where most digestion of nutrients takes place, before moving into the large intestine where water is removed, and our gut bacteria continues to break down matter and synthesises certain vitamins. We then finally pass what’s left as a stool, and the process is complete. The whole process is managed thanks to peristalsis, a wave like action that helps propel the food to each area of the digestive stages.
 
Many clients talk about gut problems, but that term is a little vague as issues can occur at any of the stages. We may eat too quickly and not chew enough so that the food is too large, and we experience a sensation that the food is hard to digest. We can have issues with our oesophagus so that some of the stomach acid comes up further than it should, and we experience reflux. We can have too much or even too little stomach acid so our foods, most commonly proteins, aren’t adequately broken down. We can have an issue with  digestive enzymes or bile acids. Bacteria can come up to the small intestine, where they shouldn’t be and trigger small intestinal bowel overgrowth (SIBO). We can have an unbalanced gut bacteria population and constipation in the large intestine. 
 
So which nutrients are good for our digestive system?
 
Here is a list of the nutrients, the tips on how to incorporate them will follow! 

1. Probiotics – most of us have heard of probiotics nowadays. These are the positive gut bacteria that are helpful.  Food sources of probiotics are things like natural yogurt (choose a live version) or kefir. Other probiotic foods are a little trickier for the fussy eater as they are fermented foods such as pickles, kimchi, sauerkraut etc. Although my daughter did go through a phase of loving the French cornichons (mini pickled cucumbers) !  Remember that any probiotics that are eaten don’t stay long in the gut, so you do need to keep having them.
2. Prebiotics – these are the foods that the probiotics love to eat and so are vital to help support our natural probiotic population. Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus, leeks, onions, and garlic. Often these are the types of foods that are tricky to get passed a fussy eaters  eagle eye.
3. Soluble fibre found in oats, linseeds (ground flaxseeds), chia seeds and most vegetables including root vegetables.  Soluble fibre helps the synthesis of a short-chain fatty acid called n-Butyrate in the large intestine, which is an important nutrient for the gut walls. 
4. Zinc rich foods including beef, pork and chicken or seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sea vegetables and whole grains. Zinc is important for gastric acid and is also involved with tissue healing so helps support gut integrity. 
5. L-glutamine, food sources including eggs, beef, pork, poultry, dairy products, raw spinach, raw parsley, and cabbage. 
6. Bone broth is a great source of natural collagen, a key protein to support the gut lining. 

 
How to slip these ingredients into your fussy eater’s diet. 

1. Unless your fussy eater is dairy free, then including natural, live yogurt or kefir is probably the simplest way of introducing probiotics into their diet. If they aren’t that impressed with either, try mixing a tablespoon of one or the other into another type of yogurt that they like, or in with their cereal or porridge.
2. My daughter could spot an onion ‘bit’ at a hundred paces, so I spent her childhood mixing onions and garlic with carrots and a bit of broth to make a base for most of my cooking.  Roasting vegetables is also an easier way for children to eat them. Yes, steamed is better, but roasted is better than none. 
3. Porridge or flapjacks are the easiest way of including soluble fibre and usually goes down well with most people. Adding some ground flaxseed or chia is also relatively easy. 
4. Zinc rich foods are usually easy to incorporate, especially if an omnivore diet is followed. Plant-based sources can be trickier, but I would recommend toasting pumpkin seeds with a tiny bit of maple syrup and offering them as a snack.
5. L-glutamine foods are similar in ease to zinc rich foods if you stick to the animal-based proteins. Raw spinach can be blended into a smoothie. 
6. Bone broth – I get lots and lots of questions about bone broth from my clients, all concerned that it just sounds too difficult to include, but there are simple ways of incorporating it without your fussy eater knowing. I make a big batch and freeze it in ice-cube trays. I then grab some cubes when I am cooking rice, a stew, soup, or gravy and add them in. All the benefits and they won’t even notice! 

 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now?
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal condition that affects millions of people in Western societies.  Incidence of IBS is on the increase with more and younger people being diagnosed and experiencing symptoms including stomach pain, bloating and irregular bowel movements.  Exact causes are unknown, and IBS remains the common diagnosis once all other digestive conditions have been ruled out. 
 
Ultra-processed foods and drinks (UPFD) are increasing in both consumption and visibility, but so too is the amount of evidence growing that highlights this food group’s problematic relationship with health. 
 
This article will explore the association between consumption of UPFDs and IBS and will give 5 tips on how to transition away from UPFDs if you suffer from IBS.
 
A quick IBS overview
  
IBS is a complex and often long-term (chronic) digestive disorder that effects the large intestine or colon. IBS is considered a functional gut disorder as there is no damage to the gut. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but include a combination of the following: 

• Stomach pain or discomfort which is often relieved by passing a stool.
• Bloating and wind. 
• Diarrhoea or an urgency to go.
• Constipation
• Alternating diarrhoea and constipation 
• Mucus in the stool
• Changes in stool habits. Stool consistency can vary from movement to movement.

 
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult with a medical practitioner. 
 
IBS is thought to be caused by several triggers including gut motility (the movement of your stool through your gut), gut microbiome and gut hormones. Diet and stress have been identified as triggers for onset or worsening of IBS symptoms.
 
Ultra-Processed Foods and Drinks.
 
The jury is still out on the classification of what makes a UPFD, however since 2013 the NOVA classification developed by Monteiro et al., (6) has been the system most quoted. The NOVA classification divides products into four categories, from unprocessed or minimally processed foods to ultra-processed foods and drinks: 

• Group 1 – Unprocessed or minimally processed e.g., single ingredients. 
• Group 2 – Processed culinary ingredients. Ingredients such as olive oil, flour or herbs and spices that have been processed by way of pressing, grinding, milling, and drying but have no ingredients added to them.
• Group 3 – Processed Foods – foods that have been canned, pickled, smoked, cured, or fermented. 
• Group 4 – Ultra-Processed Foods and Drinks – formulations made from multiple processes. These are typically energy dense, low on fibre, micronutrients, and phytochemicals and high in unhealthy types of dietary fat, free sugars, and sodium. 

In a nutshell, UPFDs are highly processed products that usually contain a long list of additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. They can be found packaged in bright, colourful packaging and they are promoted as being convenient as well as being delicious and economical, as they usually have long shelf lives. 
 
How UPFDs affect gut health including IBS
When a person is diagnosed with IBS, they are often recommended a low FODMAP diet which is fundamentally a very low fibre diet. Many of my clients come to me saying that ultra-processed foods are those that they tolerate the best on this way of eating. What they don’t realise is whilst these foods and drinks appear to be more easily digested, they are, in fact, reinforcing and exacerbating the problem. 
 
Studies have shown that the gut microbiome is different in those who regularly eat UPFDs and those that don’t. Those whose diet includes many UPFDs tend to have a larger population of gut bacteria that is considered more pro-inflammatory (triggers more inflammation).
 
There are numerous ways in which UPFDs affect gut health and can contribute to IBS including: 

• Emulsifiers, such as thickeners and texture improvement agents including carrageenan (CGN). Studies have shown that these have an effect on gut bacteria, the protective gut lining (mucosal barrier) and increase possible inflammation. (7–10)
• Additives. The jury is still out on the impact of additives, but the European Food Standards Authority (EFSA) recommended in 2019 that further research was needed regarding Titanium Oxide (TiO2 or E171) used as a whitening agent in toothpaste, as early studies found that it may worsen existing inflammatory bowel disease.  (11,12)
• High sugar/sweetener levels can exacerbate bloating and wind symptoms. A study also found that high sugar consumption was linked to a change in the gut microbiota. (13)
• Low fibre content – fibre can cause discomfort for someone suffering from IBS, but it is essential for gut health and regular bowel movements.
• Lack of macro and micronutrients. Ultra-processed foods often have imbalanced macro and micronutrient contents. We often think of our gut as just a way ‘through’ but the gut itself, its microbiome population and its wall integrity also need a good variety of nutrients to be fully functioning. 
• High salt – human studies are lacking in this area, but it is thought that high salt levels could influence the immune system encouraging inflammation in the gut. 

5 Top Tips for Transitioning Away from Ultra-processed foods if you have IBS.
 
Caution: someone with IBS who has been following a low FODMAP or low-fibre diet shouldn’t suddenly change their diet.  I would strongly recommend that anyone wishing to modify their diet consult with a medical or nutrition practitioner. 

1. 5 ingredients and less on the label. Start by avoiding foods that list more than 5 ingredients and especially those with ingredients that are hard to pronounce. 
2. Ditch the fizzy drinks. When we are thirsty, we can easily reach for a tea, coffee, or fizzy drink, but hydration, through plain water or herbal teas,  is vital for IBS management, especially if you suffer from constipation. If I could recommend the first thing to eliminate when it comes to ultra-processed foods, I would say ditch the fizzy, sugary drinks. 
3. Avoid emulsifiers and additives – look for carrageenan, titanium oxide or E171 on the food label. They are damaging your microbiome, your gut wall and may be provoking inflammation.
4. Limit foods with the words ‘fortified’ or ‘added’ followed by vitamins and minerals. If a food producer had to add it back in, it means that those nutrients were stripped out during processing.  Natural nutrients beat added ingredients any day. 
5. Reintroduce fibre, but slowly. Fibre is critical for IBS but can provoke symptoms. Start by slowly reintroducing some of the vegetables you have previously excluded, a tablespoon and a vegetable at a time, build up until you have a normal portion and then move on to the next.  

 Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Understanding and managing infant dermatitis
• Are you constipated? My top tips for getting your bowel moving.

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now?
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 
 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  

There comes a time in most parent’s life when you are faced with your child complaining of stomach-ache and asking to stay home from school. I know, it happened to me frequently with my youngest daughter. 
 
 It can be so hard to judge, especially with younger children, whether the issue is serious or simply an appeal for a day off.  My daughter has admitted that some of those earlier episodes were a case of her just wanting to stay home rather than face a test, but others were genuine. When her stomach aches started to interfere with her high-level sport practice, which she loved, I knew for sure that things weren’t right, and I consulted our GP who referred her to a gastroenterologist. In her case, all was well, but if you have any doubt about your child’s symptoms, consult your own medical practitioner. 
 
Whilst children’s stomach aches can be triggered by many things, for some it comes from Paediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and this article will give an overview on: 

• Understanding paediatric IBS 
• Symptoms
• Managing paediatric IBS
• Tips for how to support your child diagnosed with IBS.

 
Understanding paediatric IBS
 
IBS, whether paediatric or adult, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. That means that there is no physical damage to the gut, but rather a disorder in how the digestive system is working, which can lead to a range of distressing symptoms. 
 
Paediatric IBS often develops during adolescence, but some children develop the condition at a younger age. It is thought that up to 15% of the paediatric population suffers from this condition. 
 
The name Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can easily be confused with Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) which encompasses Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis, but it is a completely different condition. 
 
Symptoms of paediatric IBS

• Abdominal pain – one of the main hallmarks of IBS is recurrent abdominal pain or stomach aches.  Suffers often describe a crampy sensation that is felt anywhere in the abdomen and is often relieved by bowel movements. 
• Altered bowel habits. There may be changes in bowel habits and they could be diarrhoea or constipation, and some may alternate between the two. 
• Bloating and wind – excessive wind and bloating is often seen in paediatric IBS. This can lead to discomfort and abdominal pain. 
• Mucus in stool is observed in some children with IBS. 

 
Diagnosing paediatric IBS
 
Any children with persistent symptoms should see their medical practitioner.  It is worth being aware that diagnosing paediatric IBS can be challenging, because it overlaps with other gastrointestinal disorders, and it is usually diagnosed following a process of elimination via a combination of medical history, physical examination, and tests. 
 
If your family has any history of gastrointestinal disorders, then it is essential to share that information with your medical practitioner.  
 
Tips for how to support your child diagnosed with IBS.

• Whilst dietary modifications can be useful, it is important to consult with a nutrition practitioner before eliminating any foods or food groups out of your child’s diet. 
• A low FODMAP diet is often linked to IBS, but a child’s gut and microbiome are still immature and underdeveloped, removing so many foods could make things worse. 
• Fibre is important for bowel regularity but can sometimes trigger symptoms. Try introducing different types such as soluble or insoluble, cooked versus raw and see what works best with your child. 
• Probiotics are often suggested to support IBS, but supplements can often have the opposite to intended effects. I always recommend starting with probiotic foods such as fermented yogurt, kefir, pickled foods or kombucha, if your child is happy to try them. 
• Stress management is vital as stress and anxiety has been shown to make paediatric IBS symptoms worse. There are a host of meditation apps that are developed for children, think about introducing mindfulness at home. 
• School and social life. Children with IBS may face challenges at school and in social situations. Keeping the school, teachers, school nurse and parents of friends informed of your child’s condition can help ensure proper support wherever your child is. 

 
IBS in children is a real, but often misunderstood condition that can have a significant impact on a child’s daily life. Recognising the symptoms, seeking healthcare advice for proper diagnosis and nutrition support, and introducing some anxiety relief techniques are crucial to help improve quality of life. 
 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Understanding and managing infant dermatitis
• Are you constipated? My top tips for getting your bowel moving.

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now?
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 

Understanding and Managing Infant Dermatitis
 
Infant dermatitis is a common skin condition that affects babies in infancy. Whilst it can be distressing for both parents and babies, it’s vital to remember that most cases can be effectively managed with proper care and management. This article is aimed at parents whose infants have recently been diagnosed with dermatitis and will explore: 

• The different types of infant dermatitis,
• Causes
• Role of nutrition
• Nutrients that support natural skin health
• Tips on how to manage and alleviate discomfort for your infant. 

 
The different types of infant dermatitis

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) – a chronic, itchy skin condition that often starts in infancy. 
• Contact dermatitis – occurs when the skin comes into contact with a possible irritant or allergen. Common causes included perfumed shampoo, soaps, and creams, but also washing powders and fabrics. Symptoms include redness, itching and sometimes blisters. 
• Cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) – presents as greasy, yellowish, scaly patches on the scalp. This condition is harmless and generally resolves on its own.
• Nappy rash (dermatitis) – a common occurrence in nappy wearing infants, due to contact with moisture. Symptoms include redness and irritation within the area covered by a nappy. 

 
Causes
There are different possible causes, depending on the type: 

• Genetics – having a family history of eczema or other skin conditions can increase an infant’s risk of developing infant dermatitis.
• Allergies/intolerances to food or environmental triggers can trigger atopic (allergic) dermatitis. 
• Irritants. As mentioned above certain fragrances or materials (eg. nickel) can trigger contact dermatitis.
• Environmental factors such as the weather and humidity levels, can also trigger an infant’s fragile skin. 

 
Role of Nutrition
Nutrition is the foundation of all our cells, including skin cells and it can have an impact on the development and management of infant dermatitis. In the past allergens were strictly avoided in infants, but research has uncovered that this may make food allergies more prevalent. The guidelines, now are: 

• Breastfeeding. UK Government guidelines are for a baby to be breastfed, where possible, for the first six months of life. This is particularly important in the case of infants with a familial history of atopy (allergic eczema, asthma etc). 
• Formula milks. If there is a family history of atopy then it is worth discussing the possibility of being recommended a hypoallergenic formula, with your doctor or health visitor, 
• Weaning. 
  • For an infant WITHOUT any familial history of atopy, recommendations are to start weaning at around 6 months of age (when they can sit up, unassisted in a highchair). Foods that are common allergens should be included within the diet. 
  • For an infant WITH a familial history of atopy, the recommendation is to start weaning from the age of 4 months and include possible allergens such as dairy, egg or peanut.
  •  However, if your infant already has bad infant dermatitis, please consult with your doctor, specialist, a nutrition professional or health visitor before introducing any high-risk allergen foods. 
• Probiotics, the studies related to these are nuanced in relation to infant dermatitis: 
  • If there is a familial history of atopy, probiotics during pregnancy have been shown in studies to lower the baby’s risk of developing infant dermatitis. 
  • When the infant is born and before any infant dermatitis develops, it is worth considering introducing a probiotic formulated specifically for infants. 
  • However, if your infant has already developed infant dermatitis, research has shown that the consumption of probiotics, particularly in supplement form, can, in some individuals, worsen the flare. 

 
Nutrients that support healthy skin 
Some nutrients are essential for skin health generally, so if your infant is weaned and hasn’t demonstrated any allergies or intolerances, then consider including the following nutrients into their regular nutrition can be supportive: 

• Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids found in oily fish such as mackerel, salmon, and sardines or in flax and chia seeds. 
• Vitamin E is essential for skin repair and protection is can be found in nuts, seeds, and oils. 
• Vitamin C supports collagen production and is found in a wide range of foods including peppers and broccoli as well as the more traditionally thought of citrus fruits. 
• Vitamin D. In the UK guidelines are that all infants should have vitamin D supplementation from birth to 12 months. Discuss this with your GP. 
• Zinc is vital for skin development and repair, it is primarily found in meats, fish, and dairy.  Pumpkin seeds are a good source of plant-based zinc. 

 
My tips for managing infant dermatitis. 

• Consult your GP, health visitor or a nutrition professional before making any significant changes to your infant’s diet and especially if you suspect any allergies or intolerances.
• Use a Food and Symptom diary (free copy linked here) so that you can identify potential triggers and share your findings with a health professional. Please note that if the infant is being breast-fed, then the diet of the person feeding the baby should also be recorded. 
• Gradual introduction of foods. Introduce new foods one at a time, so that you have a chance to really pinpoint potential triggers.
• Consider food-based sources of pro and prebiotics such as kefir or Jerusalem artichokes.
• Sunlight – vitamin D deficiency is linked to increase infant dermatitis risk. A short, daily exposure to some sunshine where possible, such as a walk in a pushchair outdoors, can be very beneficial. 

Foods, ingredients, or molecule intolerances appear to be on the rise and whilst some such as gluten or histamine are well known, others, such as salicylates, are more misunderstood. This article will delve into this lesser-known phenomenon exploring: 

• What are salicylates and what is salicylate intolerance? 
• Which symptoms are linked to salicylate intolerance? 
• What does the science say causes this condition? 
• How is salicylate intolerance diagnosed? 
• Suggestions on how to manage a suspected salicylate intolerance.

 
What are salicylates and what is a salicylate intolerance?  
 
Salicylates are natural chemicals found in many plants who use them to defend themselves against pests, bacteria, and environmental stressors. Salicylates are anti-inflammatory and as such have also been synthetically reproduced in laboratories for uses in medications, including aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. 
 
Salicylic acid has excellent anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, leading to its common use as an ingredient in processed foods, condiments, cosmetics, and beauty products. 
 
In terms of food, salicylates are found in many plant foods to a higher or lesser extent. Some of the foods that are common triggers are: 

• Berries (especially strawberries), grapes, oranges, and apples
• Tomatoes, peppers, and broccoli 
• Cinnamon, curry powder and chili powder
• Almonds and peanuts
• Tea, coffee, and some fruit juices

 
Salicylate intolerance is where a person’s system has difficulty metabolising and tolerating salicylates, leading to a range of symptoms.  The phenomenon was initially observed in medically diagnosed patients with either aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) or NSAIDs-exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD) (1,2).   In the cases of both AERD and NERD, high doses of chemical salicylates can trigger asthma, rhinosinusitis and urticaria.  
 
Clinical case studies have observed that for some, simply eating a diet high in salicylates can contribute to a variety of symptoms, although this can vary from person to person and may also depend on the quantity of salicylates eaten or exposed to over a short period of time. 
 
Which symptoms are linked to salicylate intolerance? 
 
Whilst respiratory and skin symptoms are the most recognised symptoms of salicylate intolerance, there are others including: 

• Digestive issues: stomach pain, bloating, wind, diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Behavioural changes including irritability, restlessness or difficulty concentrating.
• Joint pain and swelling, similar to arthritis symptoms. 
• Fatigue. Both chronic fatigue and low energy levels are often described.
• Anaphylaxis. Whilst extremely rare, severe allergic reaction has been reported. 

 
What does the science say causes this condition? 
As with so many conditions, the exact cause of salicylate intolerance is not well understood, however there are some areas which are being explored: 

• Inability to metabolise or detoxify salicylates properly. 
• Genetic SNPs. Some studies have identified modifications on genes (SNPs) including on CYP2C9, NAT2 and UGT1A6 which might indicate a susceptibility to salicylate intolerance. (3,4)
• Overexposure from food, medical or topical sources can lead to symptoms.
• Underlying health conditions. It is thought that some health conditions including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal permeability (leaky gut) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) may increase the risk of salicylate intolerance, however it may also be the salicylate intolerance which triggers the health conditions. Further studies are needed to explore this. (5,6)

 
How is salicylate intolerance medically diagnosed? 
Diagnosis of salicylate intolerance is tricky, mainly because of the number of overlapping symptoms with other conditions.  A medical or nutrition practitioner will undertake: 

• A review of your symptoms and medical history. Could your symptoms be linked to other conditions e.g., IBS, food allergies, auto-immune conditions?
• A dietary analysis. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify common food triggers. A nutrition professional can use that information to evaluate whether salicylates may be a cause.  
• Challenge testing. If your medical practitioner suspects AERD or NERD then challenge testing may be undertaken within a hospital setting. 

 
For many, a salicylate intolerance is linked to other conditions or genetics and is not, itself, the root cause.  Sufferers tend to go heavily down the elimination root, which whilst does initially provide relief, is not a sustainable or healthy long-term solution. Working with a practitioner to discover the main trigger of the sensitivity is key. 
 
Suggestions for managing a suspected salicylate intolerance.

1. Review your diet by using a food and symptom diary. (you can download one FREE below). Note, that if you are reacting to everything then you need to work with a professional to find the route cause rather than starting to eliminate foods as the foods aren’t the actual issue.
2. Complete this quiz to see whether salicylates rather than histamines might be a trigger for you. 
3. Consider adopting a low salicylate diet. If you plan on changing your diet, you should consult with a healthcare or nutrition practitioner.  A low salicylate diet shouldn’t be followed for more than 3 weeks as it could lead to nutrient deficiencies. 
4. Pay attention to the ingredients of the foods you eat. Check the food labels. Many processed foods, condiments and sauces contain salicylates. 
5. What gene SNPs may you have that could contribute to a salicylate intolerance? How efficient are your detoxification pathways?  
6. Many over the counter medications are based on salicylic acid, so check with your pharmacist.
7. Skin and personal care products often contain salicylates. Try to choose those that are salicylate free. If in any doubt, contact the manufacturer. 
8. Lifestyle and emotions can influence how well a person can tolerate things. Get regular exercise and manage stress and relaxation. 

 
If on medication, please speak to your GP/consultant before making any changes to your diet. 

 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 
 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now?
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 
 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com
 
References: 

1. Skypala IJ, Williams M, Reeves L, Meyer R, Venter C. Sensitivity to food additives, vaso-active amines and salicylates: A review of the evidence. Clin Transl Allergy. 2015;5(1):1–11. 
2. Kęszycka PK, Lange E, Gajewska D. Effectiveness of personalized low salicylate diet in the management of salicylates hypersensitive patients: Interventional study. Nutrients. 2021;13(3):1–14. 
3. Park SM, Park JS, Park HS, Park CS. Unraveling the genetic basis of aspirin hypersensitivity in asthma beyond arachidonate pathways. Allergy, Asthma Immunol Res. 2013;5(5):258–76. 
4. Palikhe NS, Kim SH, Nam YH, Ye YM, Park HS. Polymorphisms of Aspirin-Metabolizing enzymes CYP2C9, NAT2 and UGT1A6 in Aspirin-Intolerant urticaria. Allergy, Asthma Immunol Res. 2011;3(4):273–6. 
5. Raithel M, Baenkler HW, Naegel A, Buchwald F, Schultis HW, Backhaus B, et al. Significance of salicylate intolerance in diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract. J Physiol Pharmacol [Internet]. 2005;56 Suppl 5:89–102. Available from: http://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/1624719
6. Tuck CJ, Malakar S, Barrett JS, Muir JG, Gibson PR. Naturally-occurring dietary salicylates in the genesis of functional gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: Pilot study. JGH Open. 2021;5(8):871–8. 

 ​

The trees begin to lose their leaves, and you sigh a great sigh of relief thinking that the hay fever and seasonal allergies season is finally over. Then you realise that you are still getting symptoms – itchy eyes, runny nose, a dermatitis flare. It is very possible and even probable that you are suffering from Autumnal allergies. 
 
TV adverts and magazine articles would have you think that hay fever and seasonal allergies only happen in the spring and summer, but that isn’t the case.  Autumn brings its own set of allergens ready to trigger a runny nose, atopic dermatitis, and itchy eyes. If it isn’t plant pollen, what are the autumnal triggers that can cause so many issues? 
 
Weed pollen, mould spores and house mites are the most common triggers for Autumnal allergies, read on to find out more details and to get my 5 tips to lessen the autumnal allergy symptoms.
 
Weed Pollen 
 
Not all pollen producing plants flower in spring.  A whole category of weeds flower in the autumn and produce the highly allergenic weed pollen. These plants usually flower from late August until the first frost (usually around the end of November but growing later with climate change). This category of plants includes common weeds found in the UK such as nettles and sorrel but also varieties that are much newer to the UK and Europe such as the American Ragweed. Not only is ragweed a recent invader, but it also produces one of the highest amounts of pollen, causing uncomfortable hay fever and dermatitis symptoms in many sufferers.  
 
Mould Spores
 
Mould is around us all the time, but at this time of year levels peak with the falling leaves gently composting on the ground releasing large amounts of allergenic spores.  These are the main types of mould which have been highlighted as being triggers for allergy symptoms: 
 
Cladosporium Herbarum – this is a black mould that you can sometimes be found on bathroom walls or in a fridge, but it is also found on rotting vegetation. This is the considered the most allergenic of the moulds as it is easily airborne and so can spread quickly. 
 
 
Penicillium Notatum – found in decomposing leaves and soil. This mould is also the type you find on food that is going off eg. bread and fruit. 
 
Alternaraia Alternata – mainly found in rotting wood and therefore, forests, but can also be present on food and textiles. 
 
Dust Mites
Many sufferers of asthma, eczema or hay fever also have a dust mite allergy and whilst dust mites exist all year, reactions tend to peak in autumn as the weather becomes damp but remains relatively warm and we retreat inside and close our doors and windows, but we haven’t yet put our heating on. 
 
5 Tips to Lesson the Autumnal Allergy Symptoms

• Avoid stomping through fallen leaves as the movement will shake up any pollen or mould spores.
• Mould spores like the damp, so ensure your home is well ventilated and consider furnishings that can be easily wiped or washed.
• Check your property for any signs of damp or mould and consider purchasing some dehumidifiers for some of the less well-ventilated areas of your home and/or the bedrooms
• Avoid drying your washing on radiators as this drastically increases the amount of humidity in the air. 
• Remember to clean your fridge regularly as mould often builds in the more hard-to-reach shelves

 
If you were interested in this article, you may be interested in these other blogs I’ve previously published: 
 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now? 
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com
 
 

Blood sugars and continuous blood sugar monitors are all the rage and for good reason. Maintaining a stable blood sugar level isn’t just vital for metabolic health and weight, but also plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin and a normal functioning gut. 
 
This article will explore the connections between stable blood sugars and both skin and gut health and will provide practical tips to achieve and maintain this important balance: 

• The role of stable blood sugars
• Blood sugars and skin health
• Blood sugars and gut health
• My top tips for keeping your blood sugars stable.

 
The role of stable blood sugars
 
Before we go into the detail of blood sugar and skin and gut health, here’s a quick overview of how important blood sugars are, so that we put it all in context. 
 
Simplistically, blood sugar is our main source of energy, and we get it primarily from eating carbohydrates which our digestive system then breaks down to glucose. This then enters our blood stream and provides energy to cells.  Stable blood sugars are vital for lots of reasons, but here are the most cited ones: 

• Energy regulation – stable blood sugars provide a consistent energy supply preventing energy crashes and fatigue.
• Weight management – stable blood sugars are associated with better weight management. Blood sugar levels spiking quickly up before crashing down, can trigger overeating, especially carbohydrate rich foods, which can lead to weight gain.
• Diabetes prevention – blood glucose levels that remain stubbornly high can lead to insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes. If your blood sugar levels crash too low, then you can be at risk for hypoglycaemia which can lead to headaches and energy crashes amongst other more serious effects. 
• Cognitive function – blood sugar levels can affect brain function and concentration. If you want to perform well, you should aim for stable blood sugar levels. 

Blood sugars and skin health
There are several ways that blood sugars can have an impact on skin health including: 

• Acne and inflammation.  There has been extensive research into the role of nutrition, including high-glycaemic (sugar) diets  and acne. (1)
• Acne is also linked to insulin response. Foods with high glycaemic values (those that make blood glucose levels rise and fall more quickly) are linked to higher insulin levels. (1,2) and higher insulin levels are linked to increased sebum production.
• Premature aging. Elevated blood sugar levels can have a damaging effect on collagen and elastin, both essential for skin firmness, therefore resulting in wrinkles.
• Glycation happens when the sugar in your blood stream attaches to a protein and produces Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs). These harmful free radicals accumulate and then damage further proteins such as collagen, which can then result in stiff, less resilient skin. 
• Eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. High blood sugar levels have been associated with increased inflammation within the body, which can trigger these common skin conditions. 
• Itchiness. For many eczema sufferers the unbearable itch is one of the worst possible symptoms. Fluctuating blood sugar levels, specifically rapid spikes and crashes, have been observed to trigger increased itchiness. (3). 
• Skin barrier function (e.g., leaky skin). Eczema is closely related with a poor skin barrier which allows moisture to escape and irritants and bacteria to enter the skin more easily. (4)
• Bacterial infections.  Those suffering from eczema/dermatitis are more at risk to skin infections as their impaired skin barrier, which can be affected by blood glucose levels, allow bacteria through more easily. 

 
Blood sugars and gut health
 
Blood sugars and gut health aren’t usually associated by most people; however, high blood sugar levels can influence: 

• Your microbiome, or your own personal population of gut bacteria, which play a crucial role in not only your digestive health, but also your overall health and wellbeing.
• Digestive disorders. Those that are associated with unstable blood sugar levels include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and intestinal hyperpermeability (Leaky Gut). High glucose levels can also damage the intestinal lining, leading to inflammation and increasing gut permeability (5).
• Systemic inflammation (when your body has an exaggerated immune response to something). Systemic inflammation can damage the gut lining and lead to digestive discomfort and disorders. (6–7). 

 
My top tips for keeping your blood sugars stable. 
 

1. Balance your meals. Protein or fibre slows carbohydrate digestion so consider starting your meal with either of these, rather than first tucking into the pasta or bread. 
2. If you like a sweet treat, consider adding it to the end of a meal instead of having it on its own as a snack. If you do need snacks then try to have some protein first e.g., a handful of nuts and seeds.
3. Avoid ultra-processed foods and drinks. These contain more than the average amount of sugar. Just have a look at the labels!  The simpler ingredients you eat, the less chance you have of eating lots of hidden sugars. 
4. Stress can raise your blood sugar levels, so think about stress-lowering techniques. Can you go for a walk in nature at lunchtime? Can you listen to a meditation in your car before you go into work? Can you do a Yoga Nidra session that you find on YouTube before you go to sleep? 
5. Drink plenty of water. Even if hydration doesn’t lower your blood sugar levels it still helps support your skin and gut health. Try to drink regularly throughout the day rather than gulping down big quantities every so often. 
6. Consider getting a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for a month. I don’t think everyone should have these for ever, but having one for a month can be really eye opening. What foods make YOU have a sugar spike? You may be surprised. I work with Veri who can supply you with a Freestyle Libre monitor and accompanying app. Clients who work with me can use this tool and have me access their data so that I can help interpret which is the best way of eating for that individual. If you want to find out more get in touch
7. Get a good night’s sleep. How well you sleep can affect your blood sugar levels the next day. I found that out whilst I was using a CGM and found that my normal breakfast had a much worse score the morning after a disturbed night. 

 
I run a 5 day ‘A Week to Reduce Your Sugar Cravings’ Challenge – it’s absolutely free and you can sign up here.
 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now? 
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 
 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com
 
References: 

1. Meixiong J, Ricco C, Vasavda C, Ho BK. Diet and acne: A systematic review. JAAD Int [Internet]. 2022;7:95–112. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdin.2022.02.012
2. Briganti S, Flori E, Mastrofrancesco A, Ottaviani M. Acne as an altered dermato-endocrine response problem. Exp Dermatol [Internet]. 2020 Sep 1;29(9):833–9. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.14168
3.  Xu X, Zhang H, Li L, Yang R, Li G, Liu S, et al. Study of the Involvement of the P2Y12 Receptor in Chronic Itching in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Mol Neurobiol [Internet]. 2022;59(3):1604–18. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-021-02676-4
4. Lee Y Bin, Hwang HJ, Kim E, Lim SH, Chung CH, Choi EH. Hyperglycemia-activated 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 increases endoplasmic reticulum stress and skin barrier dysfunction. Sci Rep [Internet]. 2023;13(1):1–13. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-36294-y
5. Snelson M, de Pasquale C, Ekinci EI, Coughlan MT. Gut microbiome, prebiotics, intestinal permeability and diabetes complications. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab [Internet]. 2021;35(3):101507. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1521690X21000245
6. Stecher B. The roles of inflammation, nutrient availability and the commensal microbiota in enteric pathogen infection. Metab Bact Pathog. 2015;297–320. 
7. Andersen CJ, Murphy KE, Fernandez ML. Impact of obesity and metabolic syndrome on immunity. Adv Nutr. 2016;7(1):66–75. 

Histamine intolerance is a recently identified but increasingly considered condition that, whilst not life-threatening, can trigger a range of uncomfortable and often debilitating symptoms. The disparity and variety of symptoms that can be attributed to this condition are so widespread that it took time for the scientific community to observe the common denominator, and it is often misdiagnosed in general practice. 
 
This, the fifth and last article in my ‘histamine’ series, will delve into this condition that is grabbing the attention of the healthcare community, providing you with information that may help you unravel whether histamine intolerance may be a factor in your health. The article covers: 

• What is histamine intolerance?
• Which symptoms hint at a possible histamine intolerance? 
• What are the possible contributory causes? 
• The genetics of histamine intolerance 
• My top tips for lowering your ‘histamine load’.

 
What is histamine intolerance? 
 
Histamine intolerance, also known as histaminosis or histamine sensitivity, is an increasingly recognised condition that affects a significant number of people worldwide. (1,2) is usually defined as the inability to adequately breakdown histamine. 
 
Histamine is a neurotransmitter, found throughout the body, but specifically in the skin, respiratory tract, and the digestive system. It is involved in numerous processes including stomach acid production, and vasodilation (the widening of the blood vessels), but is more commonly known for its pivotal involvement in the immune response. 
 
It is believed that individuals who suffer from histamine intolerance have a deficiency or dysfunction of the DAO (diamine oxidase) or HNMT (histamine-N-methyltransferase, enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down histamine in the body. This slowing of histamine degradation leads to a possible accumulation of histamine, leading to a variety of symptoms, depending on the individual. 
 
It is thought that histamine intolerance prevalence is higher in children than in adults (3), but further studies are needed. My clinical experience, working with many infants and young children with digestive and skin symptoms, is that when true IgE allergies have been ruled out, histamine intolerance is often a route to be explored. Lowering an overall histamine load, rather than assuming that multiple food intolerances are at play, can allow children to retain the all-important macro and micronutrient variety, rather than putting them at risk of strict and restrictive elimination diets which oftentimes worsens the situation and puts their health at risk.
 
Histamine intolerance has, in the past, often been misdiagnosed as whole host of other diseases including food allergy and intolerances, urticaria, eosinophilic gastroenteritis amongst others.  When clients come to see me with negative allergy/intolerance testing, but who swear blind that such and such a food triggers a reaction, histamine intolerance is something that immediately springs to mind. 
 
Which symptoms hint at a possible histamine intolerance? 
As I’ve already explored in previous articles (see links at the end of this feature), histamine intolerance can manifest in a variety of different symptoms, hence the diagnosis difficulty. Common symptoms include: 

• Digestive issues including abdominal cramps and pain, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting, bloating and flatulence and acid reflux.
• Skin problems including itchy skin, urticaria and eczema.
• Respiratory symptoms including sneezing, runny or blocked nose, coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing.
• Headaches and migraines

 
What are the possible contributory causes? 
There are several possible contributory causes to histamine intolerance, but the main theory involves the concept of an overall histamine ‘load’ or the cumulative effect of several factors, including: 

• DAO and HNMT enzyme deficiencies, as mentioned above, can contribute to histamine being inadequately broken down and, therefore, more histamine circulating within the body.
• Histamine containing foods. Some foods are known to be high histamine such as spinach, avocados, and dried fruits. An accumulation of too many of these foods in the diet, can add to the histamine load.
• Histamine liberating foods. Whilst these foods don’t contain high histamine levels themselves, they are known to either provoke the liberation of histamine or slow down the action of either DAO or HNMT. These include alcohol, fermented foods and citrus fruits. 
• Gut health. Conditions such as intestinal hyperpermeability (leaky gut), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can contribute to histamine load and histamine load also has a worsening effect on the symptoms of these conditions.
• Medications – some medication such as non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications which can bought over the counter and some anti-depressants can also slow histamine metabolism or trigger histamine release. 
• Stress. When your cortisol levels rise in response to stress, it may trigger mast cells to release histamine. 

 
Please note that not every individual will be affected by all the above, and this overview should only support the notion of how your overall histamine load could add up. 
 
The genetics of histamine intolerance 
 
For some experiencing histamine issues, the question of low or slow DAO or HNMT activity may stem from their genetics. DAO inactivates histamine in the gut and HNMT within the nervous system and lungs. Genetic variants on these enzymes or their pathways can lead to histamine intolerance. 
 
Nutrigenomics testing, which I offer through Lifecode Gx, can provide information on our own genes which then informs us on the nutrition and lifestyle changes we can make to align with any variants to optimise health and wellbeing. Lifecode Gx offers a specific Histamine Intolerance test. You can find out more, by clicking the link.   Nutrigenomic testing is the only form of testing that is available from the youngest age. Whilst how you eat and live your life will have an effect on whether a gene variation may have an impact, your genes themselves never change. 
 
My top tips for lowering your histamine load. 

1. Consider your histamine ‘genetics’, do you have variants that slow the metabolism of histamine? 
2. Review your daily histamine load – are you stressed? Have you eaten lots of histamine containing or histamine liberating foods? Are you taking a NSAID or other histamine releasing medication. Now consider, what out of the list you’ve drawn up can you reduce or remove so that your overall load is lessened? 
3. Be aware of food sources of histamine and histamine liberating foods. Try to not have too many in one day or all at one time. Eliminating more and more foods is not the answer and could be very dangerous for your health. Consulting with a nutrition professional is recommended. Follow this link for a list of common high-histamine foods.
4. For some, but not all, DAO supplementation before higher histamine meals can be helpful. 
5. Increase antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods such as green leafy vegetables (except for spinach, which is high histamine), oily fish and ginger. 
6. Introduce daily activities that help balance your stress. What activity can you do without leaving your home, for 10-15 minutes that brings you joy and lowers your heart rate? Consider drafting a list and committing to doing at least one of those activities daily. 

 
If on medication, please speak to your GP/consultant before making any changes to your diet. 
 
If you are interested in histamine and its impact on symptoms, this article is the second in a series I am currently publishing covering.  The series in total will include:

1. What is the histamine and eczema/dermatitis link? (Already published, view using the link)
2. What’s the histamine and gut health connection? (Already published, view using the link)
3. What is the histamine and auto-immune conditions link (Already published, view using the link)
4. Histamine and oestrogen – why histamine may trigger skin and gut issues at the menopause. ((Already published, view using the link)
5. Histamine Intolerance is it really a thing? (Today's article)

 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now? 
  
  

Who Am I? 
​
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com
 
References: 

1. Schnedl WJ, Enko D. Histamine Intolerance Originates in the Gut. Vol. 13, Nutrients. 2021. 
2. Zhao Y, Zhang X, Jin H, Chen L, Ji J, Zhang Z. Histamine Intolerance—A Kind of Pseudoallergic Reaction. Biomolecules. 2022;12(3):40–8.
3. Martin H, Radoslav D, Huorka M, Wawruch M. Histamine Intolerance — The More We Know the Less We Know. Nutrients. 2021;13:1–21. 

Click on the thumbnails to find out more

It’s a fascinating fact that before puberty, if you are born male, you are more at risk from childhood allergies, but that after puberty those born female are more likely to suffer from conditions relating to immune function including allergies and autoimmune conditions. (1,2)
 
It’s also reported that many people experience an onset, worsening or sometimes remission from eczema and IBS symptoms at certain times in the menstrual cycle or life stage e.g. pregnancy and menopause.
 
Have you ever considered why? 
 
Studies have hinted at the interaction of the neurotransmitter, histamine, and the hormones, oestrogen, and progesterone.  Today’s article, the fourth in my ‘histamine’ series, explores this emerging topic and includes: 

• Histamine a quick review.
• Oestrogen, progesterone, and the menstrual cycle
• Oestrogen, progesterone, and histamine, how might they interact? 
• Histamine levels linked to the menstrual cycle.
• Histamine and pregnancy
• Menopause and histamine imbalance
• My recommendations for keeping histamine in check.

 
Histamine, a quick overview
Histamine is a compound that acts as both a neurotransmitter and an immune system messenger. It is responsible for a range of roles, including immune response, vasodilation (the widening of the blood vessels), and stomach acid production.  Whilst histamine is vital for protecting the bodies against infection and supporting wound healing, too much histamine can lead to various health issues. 
 
 For more detail on how this might link to digestive health, skin conditions or autoimmunity, please see my previous articles, links below.
 
Oestrogen, progesterone, and the menstrual cycle
 
The menstrual cycle is an intricate ballet of hormonal fluctuations, depending on distinct phases, going from menstruation to the follicular phase, ovulation and finally the luteal phase.  During this cycle levels of sex hormones, including oestrogen, progesterone, luteinising hormone, and follicular stimulating hormone, rise and fall with the aim to prepare the body for pregnancy.
 
Oestrogen is a group of sex hormones (estrone, oestradiol and estriol) that plays a key role in the development and functioning of the female reproductive system. Less well considered is the fact that oestrogen also impacts bone health, cardiovascular function, cognitive function, and the modulation of the immune system.  Oestrogen levels are at their highest during the follicular phase, between the first day of a period and the next ovulation (days 1-14).  Oestrogen is primarily excreted from the body following detoxification via the liver. Some oestrogen is, however, recycled and remains in circulation which may lead to oestrogen levels being proportionately higher at some times. 
 
Progesterone, another vital hormone, works in step with oestrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle and prepare the body for a potential pregnancy.  It also plays a role in thermoregulation (cooling you down or keeping your warm), skin health, brain function, and vitally has anti-inflammatory actions.  Progesterone levels are highest during the Luteal phase of your cycle. This is the phase directly after ovulation which lasts until your next cycle begins. 
 
Oestrogen, progesterone, and histamine, how might they interact? 
 
Research suggests that histamine levels are influenced by the hormonal fluctuations that happen during the menstrual cycle. 
 
Oestrogen has been demonstrated to encourage release of histamine from mast cells. This may explain the increase in symptoms such as allergies, migraines and eczema during the follicular phase, reported by many. (1)
 
Some studies, have indicated that oestrogen may not just trigger mast cells to produce histamine  but may also downregulate the production of DAO (diamine oxidase), one of the enzymes that breaks down histamine in the gut. (3,4)
 
Some studies suggest that progesterone may slow mast cells from releasing histamine. (5)
 
Histamine levels linked to the menstrual cycle.
 
A useful, but basic summary, particularly in relation to the topic we are discussing today is the fact that oestrogen can stimulate histamine production and progesterone is anti-inflammatory.  If we know that oestrogen levels are highest during the follicular phase and progesterone’s are highest in the luteal phase, then we can start to consider whether a person’s own symptoms can be mapped to their cycle.  
 
It is important to note that whilst some do report an increased sensitivity to histamine during certain phases of their cycle, many do not. 
 
Histamine and pregnancy
Hormone levels are increased during pregnancy and for those sensitive to histamine, an increase in skin or digestive issues may be experienced at that time. Morning sickness can also be related to histamine’s role in stomach acid production. 
 
On the other hand, during pregnancy the immune system is naturally heightened, which for some results in remission from eczema or other symptoms for the duration of the pregnancy. 
 
Menopause and histamine imbalance
 
The menopause marks the end of the reproductive years and is characterised by a host of hormonal changes including the reduction of oestrogen and the almost total cessation of progesterone production. 
 
Remember, oestrogen can induce histamine production whereas progesterone counter acts the effect with its anti-inflammatory role. So, during the menopause when progesterone levels are almost nil, but oestrogen continues to be produced, the scene is set for histamine load to be higher, and many menopause symptoms are directly related to this, including: 

• Hot flushes. Vasodilation triggered by histamine. 
• Disturbed sleep caused by histamine’s role in the sleep/wake cycle.
• Mood swings and anxiety. High levels of histamine may disturb overall neurotransmitter balance leading to anxiety and mood swings.
• Digestive issues. Reflux, bloating and stomach aches can be linked back to histamine’s role in stomach acid production.
• Skin issues, particularly eczema. Over production of histamine leading to severe eczema flares in susceptible individuals.

 
My recommendations for keeping histamine in check.

1. If you still have a cycle, track it and any symptoms you may experience. Do you find that they get worse at the same point in your cycle each month? The follicular phase (days 1-13) is when oestrogen levels are at their highest and when you might experience worse symptoms.
2. If you identify that you have more premenstrual, perimenopausal, menopausal, skin, autoimmune or digestive symptoms during the follicular phase, consider how you might be able to lower your overall histamine load. 
   1. Food sources - Ensuring you don’t have too many high histamine foods at the same time or close together, might help lower the histamine load. HOWEVER, histamine can be found in many foods and there are many, many contradicting food lists available on the internet. Eliminating more and more foods is not the answer and could be very dangerous for your health. Consulting with a nutrition professional is recommended. Follow this link for a list of common high-histamine foods. 
   2. Reduce any alcohol consumption so that your liver has the capacity to process the oestrogen rather than send it off for recycling.
   3. Stress can increase your histamine load. What 10-minute activity could you do every day that helps with self-care and lowers your stress levels?
3. Vitamins C and B6 are thought to help regulate histamine. Common food sources include:
   1. Vitamin C: red pepper, parsley, orange, lemon, cooked broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
   2. B6: poultry salmon and chickpeas.
4. Find out how your genetics may impact your relationship with histamine but also your hormones. The Lifecode Gx Histamine Intolerance and Hormones tests can help unravel where you might need additional nutrition and lifestyle support.  As a Lifecode Gx practitioner I can offer this testing as part of my practice. Click here to find out more.

 
If on medication, please speak to your GP/consultant before making any changes to your diet. 
 
 
If you are interested in histamine and its impact on symptoms, this article is the second in a series I am currently publishing covering.  The series in total will include:

1. What is the histamine and eczema/dermatitis link? (Already published, view using the link)
2. What’s the histamine and gut health connection? (Already published, view using the link)
3. What is the histamine and auto-immune conditions link? (Already published, view using the link)
4. Histamine and oestrogen – why histamine may trigger skin and gut issues at the menopause. (Today's article) 
5. Histamine Intolerance is it really a thing? 

 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now? 
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com
 
References: 

1. Chen W, Mempel M, Schober W, Behrendt H, Ring J. Gender difference, sex hormones, and immediate type hypersensitivity reactions. Allergy Eur J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008;63(11):1418–27. 
2. Pali-Schöll I, Jensen-Jarolim E. Gender aspects in food allergy. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol [Internet]. 2019;19(3). Available from: https://journals.lww.com/co-allergy/Fulltext/2019/06000/Gender_aspects_in_food_allergy.12.aspx
3. McCallion A, Nasirzadeh Y, Lingegowda H, Miller JE, Khalaj K, Ahn SH, et al. Estrogen mediates inflammatory role of mast cells in endometriosis pathophysiology. Front Immunol. 2022;13(August):1–15. 
4. Afrin LB, Dempsey TT, Rosenthal LS, Dorff SR. Successful mast-cell-targeted treatment of chronic dyspareunia, vaginitis, and dysfunctional uterine bleeding. J Obstet Gynaecol (Lahore) [Internet]. 2019 Jul 4;39(5):664–9. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/01443615.2018.1550475
5. Chiarella SE, Cardet JC, Prakash MPHYS. Sex Steroid Receptors and Signaling Airway Epithelial Cells Airway Smooth Muscle Cells The Mononuclear Phagocyte System Innate Lymphoid Cells Eosinophils Unresolved Clinical Questions and Future Directions. 2021; 

 

When you think of histamine, you don’t always correlate it with autoimmune conditions, even if you know that those illnesses are all about the immune system and inflammation which is driven by histamine. 
 
Today’s article, the third in my ‘histamine’ series, focuses on autoimmune conditions,  and the article includes information on:  

• Histamine’s involvement in autoimmune conditions
• Histamine and the gut/immune axis
• The autoimmune conditions that are most likely to involve a strong histamine response. 
• My top tips for managing histamine in relation to autoimmune conditions.

 
Histamine’s involvement in autoimmune conditions
Autoimmune conditions are a diverse group of illnesses, which all involve a person’s own immune system mistaking its own tissues as a foreign invader, triggering an immune response, inflammation and ultimately tissue damage. 
 
There are a whole host of different autoimmune conditions, affecting diverse parts of the body, including Type 1 Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Multiple Sclerosis, amongst many others. As an aside, many people mistakenly think that eczema/dermatitis is also an autoimmune condition, but whilst the immune response is involved, it doesn’t actively attack the skin. 
 
The precise causes of autoimmune diseases are complex, multifactorial, immunological, and often genetic. Recent research has highlighted histamine’s role in the development and exacerbation of autoimmune conditions (1) and whilst it can’t be blamed solely for triggering autoimmunity, it can act as a catalyst, amplifying immune responses and promoting the inflammation which subsequently leads to tissue damage. 
 
For those who are histamine intolerant, have disruptions in the genetic pathways for the breakdown and removal of histamine, or who may be experiencing a temporary high histamine load, the accumulation of histamine in the bloodstream can trigger a range of symptoms such as headaches, hives, digestive issues and may also exacerbate autoimmune condition specific symptoms.
 
Research has even pointed to histamine intolerance as being linked to autoimmune conditions onset due to the constant low-grade inflammation triggered by the molecule’s presence.  Long-term exposure to histamine may lead to an over-stimulated immune system, which can lead to dysfunction and reactivity. (1–3)
 
Histamine can stimulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, signalling molecules that promote inflammation.  In some cases cytokine production can become excessive, leading to the chronic inflammation so characteristic of autoimmune conditions. (4,5). This can also lead to a condition called Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, that I will address in a future article. 
 
Histamine and the gut/immune axis
The gut plays an important role in the immune system and recent research has highlighted histamine’s role in influencing this axis along with modulating dysbiosis and the health of the gut wall (leaky gut). (6)
 
See my previous article for further detail.
 
Which are the autoimmune conditions that are most likely to involve a strong histamine response.
 
Whilst histamine is involved in all autoimmune conditions to one extent or another, there are some conditions that are particularly histamine related, these include: 

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A chronic inflammatory disease mainly affecting the joints. 
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). A complex autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs and systems. 
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Characterised by immune attacks on the central nervous system leading to demyelination of nerve fibres. 
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Encompassing Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. 
• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. An autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid gland. 
• Coeliac disease. An autoimmune condition triggered by the consumption of gluten.
• Psoriasis. An autoimmune skin condition involving the fast proliferation of skin cells with high levels of inflammation.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis. A type of arthritis that mostly affects the spine.
• Sjogren’s Syndrome.  Primarily affecting the salivary and tear glands.

 
My top tips for managing histamine in relation to autoimmune conditions.

1. If you suffer from an auto-immune condition then lowering your overall exposure to histamine, including food sources, may be appropriate. Follow this link for a list of common high-histamine foods. Ensuring you don’t have too many high histamine foods at the same time or close together, might help lower the histamine load. HOWEVER, histamine can be found in many foods and there are many, many contradicting food lists available on the internet. Eliminating more and more foods is not the answer and could be very dangerous for your health. Consulting with a nutrition professional is recommended. 
2. Include some foods which have the potential to be anti-inflammatory in your diet such as oily fish, green leafy vegetables, olive oil, ginger, amongst others.
3. Include foods with nature’s antihistamine, quercetin, such as berries, apples, onions and sage.
4. Include daily stress management techniques to keep yourself calm such as meditation, low impact exercise or hobbies that trigger your flow. 
5. Find out how your genetics may impact your relationship with histamine. The Lifecode Gx Histamine Intolerance test analyses the genes and nutrients needed to breakdown and remove histamine, showing where disruptions occur and how to support optimal function.  As a Lifecode Gx practitioner I can offer this testing as part of my practice. Click here to find out more.

 
If on medication, please speak to your GP/consultant before making any changes to your diet. 

If you are interested in histamine and its impact on symptoms, this article is the second in a series I am currently publishing covering.  The series in total will include:

1. What is the histamine and eczema/dermatitis link? (Already published, view using the link)
2. What’s the histamine and gut health connection? (Already published, view using the link)
3. What is the histamine and auto-immune conditions link? ? (today’s article)
4. Histamine and oestrogen – why histamine may trigger skin and gut issues at the menopause.
5. Histamine Intolerance is it really a thing? 

 
Sign up for my news to receive the published articles straight to your inbox. 
 
Read more by clicking below to see my previously published articles: 

• Motivated to change but struggling to stay on track? Tips for long term transformation.

• Symptoms but no idea what’s triggering them? Here are some tips to unravel the mystery.  
• Top Tips for Eating for the Planet without Compromising Your Nutrition 
• I want to eat more plant-based but pulses give me terrible digestive issues
• What is the atopic march?
• Why is eczema/atopic dermatitis itchier at night?
• You’ve been diagnosed with an atopic condition, but what does that mean? 
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema – a chronic condition that effects all ages 
• The skin microbiome, the key to good skin health  
• Autumnal Allergies – Yes, it is a thing
• If one-size-fits all diets worked, don’t you think we would have the magic formula by now? 
  
  

Who Am I? 
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
 
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions. 
 
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief. 
 
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic. 
 
I also offer two free communities for adults caring for children with eczema and digestive symptoms, feel free to come and join us and get some well-deserved support. 

• Free community for adults with skin and/or digestive issues
• Free community for carers of children with skin and/or digestive issues

 
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, sign-up to my newsletter.  
 
Interested in what I do and who I am? Go to my website: www.jessicafonteneaunutrition.com
 
References: 

1. Mehta P, Miszta P, Rzodkiewicz P, Michalak O, Krzeczyński P, Filipek S. Enigmatic Histamine Receptor H4 for Potential Treatment of Multiple Inflammatory, Autoimmune, and Related Diseases. Vol. 10, Life. 2020. 
2. Volonté C, Apolloni S, Amadio S. The Histamine and Multiple Sclerosis Alliance: Pleiotropic Actions and Functional Validation BT  - The Functional Roles of Histamine Receptors. In: Yanai K, Passani MB, editors. Cham: Springer International Publishing; 2022. p. 217–39. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/7854_2021_24
3. Schnedl WJ, Mangge H, Schenk M, Enko D. Non-responsive celiac disease may coincide with additional food intolerance/malabsorption, including histamine intolerance. Med Hypotheses [Internet]. 2021;146:110404. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306987720332953
4. Theoharides TC, Perlman AI, Twahir A, Kempuraj D. Mast cell activation: beyond histamine and tryptase. Expert Rev Clin Immunol [Internet]. 2023 Jun 3;19(6):639–54. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/1744666X.2023.2200936
5. Frieri M. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol [Internet]. 2018;54(3):353–65. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12016-015-8487-6
6. Rettura F, Bronzini F, Campigotto M, Lambiase C, Pancetti A, Berti G, et al. Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Management Update. Front Med. 2021;8(November):1–19.