The enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO) plays a crucial role in breaking down histamine that enters the body through food. For individuals with histamine intolerance, a deficiency in this enzyme can lead to a buildup of histamine and trigger uncomfortable symptoms. This is where DAO supplements come in, offering a way to boost the body's natural histamine-digesting capacity. These supplements are not all the same, with variations in source, potency, and additional ingredients.
Examples of Animal-Sourced DAO Supplements
Many DAO supplements on the market are sourced from animal kidneys, most commonly from pigs. This is because the DAO enzyme is found in high concentrations in these organs.
- DAOfood and DAOfood Plus: These supplements from DR Healthcare use a porcine kidney protein extract to deliver their DAO enzyme. DAOfood Plus also includes other supportive ingredients, such as quercetin and vitamin C, to provide additional benefits. These products are formulated into gastro-resistant tablets to ensure the enzyme is released in the small intestine, where it can be most effective.
- Seeking Health DAO Enzyme: Previously known as Histamine Digest, this product contains a patented enzyme called DAOgest®, which is also derived from porcine kidney extract. Seeking Health formulates its DAO supplements to support healthy histamine levels in the small intestines and other areas of the body.
- Histazyme: Another supplement that uses porcine kidney extract for its diamine oxidase content, helping to break down food-derived histamine.
Examples of Plant-Based DAO Supplements
For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, animal-sourced DAO supplements are not an option. Fortunately, several plant-based DAO supplements are now available, typically derived from legume sprouts.
- Naturdao: Considered a "new generation" of DAO supplements, Naturdao uses a patented formula called Legumactive, which is made from natural legume ingredients like pea and lentil sprouts. It is specifically marketed as 100% suitable for vegans and is designed to provide powerful enzymatic activity. Naturdao also contains Catalase to neutralize the toxic hydrogen peroxide generated during the histamine breakdown process.
- GoDAO®: Created by the International Institute of DAO deficiency, this product is also made from vegetable sources, such as lyophilized legume sprouts. It is highlighted for its activity and stability, with a gastro-resistant formula to ensure effective delivery.
- AdiDAO® Veg: This ingredient, used by manufacturers like ABbiotek Health, is a plant-based DAO enzyme derived from dehydrated pea sprouts, suitable for use in vegan food supplements.
Comparison of Different DAO Supplements
| Feature | DAOfood Plus (Porcine-based) | Naturdao (Plant-based) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Porcine kidney extract | Legume sprouts (peas and lentils) |
| HDU Activity | ~20,000-30,000 HDU per dose (brand dependent) | Up to 1,000,000 HDU per dose |
| Vegan-Friendly | No | Yes |
| Additional Ingredients | Quercetin, Vitamin C | Catalase, additional cofactors in 'Plus' versions |
| Delivery | Gastro-resistant tablets or capsules | Fast availability tablets |
Other Ingredients in DAO Supplement Formulations
While the DAO enzyme is the central component, many supplements include additional ingredients to enhance overall histamine management and support. These include:
- Vitamin C and Vitamin B6: These vitamins act as cofactors, meaning they assist the DAO enzyme in its function. Vitamin C also has natural antihistamine properties and may help reduce blood histamine levels.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, quercetin acts as a mast cell stabilizer, which can help reduce the release of histamine in the body.
- Bromelain: A protein-digesting enzyme from pineapple, bromelain has anti-inflammatory effects and may enhance the absorption of other ingredients like quercetin.
- Catalase: Found in products like Naturdao, this enzyme helps neutralize the hydrogen peroxide created as a byproduct of the DAO-histamine reaction.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right DAO Supplement
Determining the best DAO supplement is a personal decision based on dietary needs, ingredient sensitivities, and symptom severity. Porcine-derived supplements like DAOfood and Seeking Health have been widely used and offer potent DAO activity. For those who prefer or require a vegan alternative, plant-based options like Naturdao provide a viable solution sourced from legume sprouts. When selecting a supplement, it is crucial to consider the source of the enzyme, its potency (often indicated by HDU), and the inclusion of any additional supporting ingredients. Always consult a healthcare provider or a nutritionist to find the most suitable supplement for your specific needs, as DAO supplementation is best used as part of a comprehensive dietary management plan.
For more information on the role of DAO and histamine intolerance, you can read further details on health platforms like Healthline.
List of Factors to Consider When Choosing:
- Source of DAO: Animal (porcine) vs. plant (legume).
- Enzyme Potency: Look for HDU ratings to gauge effectiveness.
- Added Nutrients: Check for beneficial cofactors like Vitamin C, B6, and Quercetin.
- Dietary Restrictions: Ensure the product is compatible with any vegan, vegetarian, or allergy-related requirements.
- Delivery System: Some use gastro-resistant capsules to protect the enzyme until it reaches the small intestine.
