Ep 11: Histamine Intolerance, (Peri)Menopause & Estrogen with Virginia Ziulu

TITLE: Histamine Intolerance, Menopause & Estrogen: The Hidden Link Hurting Women’s Health

ABOUT THE GUEST: Virginia Ziulu is a qualified Nutritional Therapist with over 12 years of experience in women’s health, lipedema, perimenopause, menopause, inflammatory conditions, and histamine intolerance. She runs a global online and in-person clinic, offering personalized 1:1 nutrition programs and functional testing to help women optimize their health. A former lipedema patient and cancer survivor, Virginia combines clinical expertise with lived experience to empower her clients.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In our first episode of 2025, we welcome Virginia Ziulu to explore the hidden connection between histamine intolerance and menopause, a topic that affects countless women yet remains widely misunderstood. We dive into the role of mast cells, antihistamines, and genetics, uncovering why some women are more prone to histamine intolerance during perimenopause and menopause. Virginia also sheds light on the link between viral infections like Epstein-Barr, autoimmune conditions, and long COVID, explaining how they contribute to hormonal imbalances and immune dysfunction. Beyond symptoms, we discuss practical strategies for managing histamine intolerance, including the role of gut health, diet, magnesium, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and insulin resistance. Virginia shares why testing for hormone levels, and reducing stress are critical tools for self-advocacy and symptom relief.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

[7:45] The Histamine Bucket: How histamine builds up and overflows, triggering symptoms.

[13:07] Histamine Rebound Effect: Why stopping antihistamines or foods can worsen symptoms temporarily.

[18:57] MTHFR Mutation: How genetics impact histamine metabolism and hormone regulation.

[25:00] Epstein-Barr: Viral infections linked to autoimmune conditions and histamine issues.

[26:00] Long Covid: How viral reactivation affects immune health and histamine intolerance.

[31:00] Perimenopause - What Happens & When: Hormonal shifts, symptoms, and their impact on histamine levels.

[34:00] Eczema & Menstruation Connection: How hormone fluctuations trigger skin inflammation and histamine reactions.

[39:00] Stress & Perimenopause: Why stress worsens symptoms and disrupts hormonal balance.

[42:00] Vitamin D: Take in the Morning: Best timing for Vitamin D to support hormones and immunity.

[44:00] Magnesium Types: Different forms of magnesium and their health benefits.

[48:00] Breast Cancer, Lipedema & HRT Alternatives: Managing symptoms with non-hormonal therapies and lifestyle changes.

[52:00] Insulin Resistance & Type 3 Diabetes: The link between hormones, metabolism, and cognitive health.

[53:00] Food & Histamine: How diet influences histamine levels and intolerance symptoms.

[56:00] Histamine-Releasing Foods: Why fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi may trigger histamine reactions.

PLUCK THIS! SEGMENT: 

• Virginia’s is offering a FREE Histamine Guide! On Instagram, comment HISTAMINE on Episode 11 Reel or email me at spencer@spencerita.com to receive the document. 

TOP TAKEAWAYS: 

• Estrogen fluctuations during perimenopause can activate mast cells.
• Histamine is a neurotransmitter that can provoke inflammation.
• Antihistamines can have side effects, including reducing DAO enzyme levels.
• Gut health is crucial for breaking down histamine effectively.
• Genetic testing can help identify predispositions to histamine intolerance.
• Methylation pathways are important for processing histamine and hormones.
• Insulin resistance worsens during perimenopause and menopause.
• Dietary choices significantly impact histamine intolerance.

RESOURCES:

Virginia Ziulu on Instagram: @virginiashealthcorner

Virginia's Website: https://www.virginiashealthcorner.ie/

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. This content should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions, starting a new treatment, or altering your health regimen.

ABOUT THE HOST: Spencer Moore is a creative professional, creative wellness advocate, and host of The Hairy Chin Podcast. Originally from Raleigh, NC, Spencer has resided in Barcelona, Spain since 2016. Her warmth, humor and authenticity bring light to tough conversations about female wellness. Drawing from personal battles with chronic illness and early-stage breast cancer, she is committed to breaking taboos and empowering women in their health journeys. 

Website: www.spencerita.com