Coffee is one of the most popular and widely consumed beverages. Millions of people rely on it for energy and focus, yet for some, the caffeine buzz is immediately followed by an unintended symptom — sneezing.
The cause of this explosion of sneezing can be linked to histamine, a chemical naturally occurring in the body. It is known to trigger the reflex that can cause sneezing when ingested in a high enough dose.
The caffeine in the coffee releases the histamine from the body’s cells. When the histamine is brought to the surface it binds with receptor cells, leading to the constriction of blood vessels. This causes the sneezing reflex and subsequent offending expulsions.
Research conducted by Henry Ford Hospital also found that people who experienced sneezing after drinking coffee had a greater sensitivity to histamine than those who didn’t. To put that into perspective, sneezing after drinking coffee is like sneezing after smelling a pungent perfume.
Dr Nancy Wideman, Medical Director of Vasaloft Genetic Medical Analysis, explains, “Coffee contains many complex compounds which, when combined with certain allergens, can irritate the body. Histamine is an allergen, so when someone imbibes a strong cup of coffee, if the histamine is already in their system, it will cause a reaction.”
This isn’t the same as being sensitive to caffeine, as sneezing after drinking coffee isn’t caused by the caffeine itself. Despite the fact that some people may think that coffee if responsible for their sneezing reaction, it is only triggered by the already existing sensitivity to histamine.
Although the link between coffee consumption and sneezing appears to be quite clear, other factors cannot be discounted. Too little sleep, poor eating habits and stress are all known contributors to histamine sensitivity and should be considered when trying to identify potential causes. Other medical conditions, such as asthma, can also trigger sneezing.
What are the Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance?
Histamine intolerance (HIT) is a condition that has only recently been gaining attention, due to its prevalence in the population. HIT is characterised by the accumulation of histamine in the body and the production of antibodies to metabolise it. If a person has too much histamine due to HIT, it can lead to several uncomfortable symptoms such as nausea, headaches, cramps and sneezing.
Dr Wideman explains, “Sneezing is just one of the symptoms of HIT. People who have this condition may also experience difficulty breathing; headaches; hives; sneezing; itching; abdominal cramps or pain; diarrhoea; and abnormal menstrual bleeding. HIT can be difficult to diagnose, however, as the symptoms vary depending on the individual.”
The most common cause of HIT is a combination of genetics and a diet high in histamine-containing foods. Histamine is present in various types of food, including aged cheese, processed meats, alcohol, fish and other foods, as well as in some medications. It is also produced by certain bacteria found in the intestines. Additionally, HIT is more common in those with mast cell activation disorder (MCAD), a condition in which the mast cells in the body produce too much histamine.
Can Histamine Intolerance Be Overcome?
Although there is no ‘cure’ for HIT, it can be eased by avoiding certain foods and keeping away from histamine-releasing medications. People are advised to create a specially tailored diet that includes only low-histamine foods, but still provides the body with essential nutrients. It is also important to stay away from drugs, such as ibuprofen, that can trigger histamine release.
Dr Wideman recommends controlling stress, as this can lead to an increase in histamine. She suggests exercising regularly and getting enough sleep. “If stress and lifestyle are causing an increase in histamine, then these areas must be addressed in order to avoid flare-ups of HIT.”
For those who opt for medical treatments, such as corticosteroids, doctors may prescribe antihistamines to ease the symptoms of HIT. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors, preventing histamine from binding with them and reducing the sneezing reflex.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Sneeze Induced By Coffee?
To prevent sneezing, the most important factor is to diagnose and manage histamine sensitivity. It is advisable to pay attention to any other symptoms that may occur in addition to sneezing, or to see a doctor if problems persist.
Your doctor may recommend reducing histamine intake by avoiding certain types of food, as well as taking antihistamines. Additionally, they may advise getting more sleep, avoiding stress, and managing MCAD if necessary.
With the proper diagnosis and management of HIT, it is possible to reduce the risk of sneezing every time you drink coffee. While it may take some trial and error, if all other factors are considered, it is possible to still enjoy a morning cup of coffee without any unwanted interruptions.
Can Diet Help Reduce Histamine Levels?
For those with HIT, creating a specialised low-histamine diet can help to reduce the symptoms. It is important to focus on the type of food consumed, as well as the quantity.
Histamine-rich foods such as avocados, fermented food and processed seafood should be limited in the diet, as well as histamine-wrecking food, such as alcohol and caffeine. Allergy-triggering foods, such as citrus fruits, fish and shellfish, should also be eliminated or reduced.
In addition to avoiding high-histamine and allergy-triggering foods, people should focus on incorporating histamine-lowering and anti-inflammatory foods into their diet. This can include olive oil, ginger and garlic, and some dairy products, such as organic yogurt, for example.
In addition to these natural remedies, some supplements and medications are available to help reduce the effects of HIT. These may include probiotics, enzymes that break down histamine, vitamin B6 and vitamin C, among others.
My Personal Experience With Coffee And Sneezing
I have had a sensitivity to caffeine ever since I was a child. When I was a teenager, I began to notice that I would sneeze after I drank coffee, and because of this, I avoided coffee as much as possible.
After studying more about HIT as an adult, I learned that I had symptoms of the condition, and thus my sensitivity to coffee had more to do with my histamine levels than the caffeine itself. After reducing my consumption of histamine-rich foods and taking antihistamines, I was able to reduce the severity of the sneezing reaction when I do drink coffee.
Conclusion
Sneezing after drinking coffee can be caused by histamine intolerance. By reducing intake of foods high in histamine and avoiding medications and stress, it is possible to reduce the sneezing reflex that can be triggered by coffee. Additionally, taking antihistamines can also provide relief from the symptom. By being mindful of your own body and paying attention to any other symptoms of HIT, it is possible to enjoy coffee without having to sneeze.
