Hello, MC360 Community!
Quick question. Have you ever reacted to something that should have been helpful?
Maybe it was magnesium. Or quercetin. Or even an antihistamine.
Most of us have (many times over).
You know it’s something you need. You started low and slow. You did everything right.
And you still had a reaction.
Here’s what surprises people sometimes. It might not be the supplement (or medication) itself that’s the problem.
It’s often the other stuff in the capsule or tablet.
This post is for informational purposes only. To read our full disclaimer, please scroll to the bottom of this post.
Most supplements aren’t just the pure ingredient you’re trying to take. Meaning it’s not just the magnesium, or DAO (diamine oxidase), or quercetin, or even your antihistamine.
Supplements (and medications) contain:
Fillers– to bulk up the powderBinders– to hold tablets togetherFlow agents– to help manufacturingCoatings– to make pills easier to swallow or time releasePreservatives– to extend shelf lifeColors and flavors– to make them more appealing
For many people, these ingredients don’t cause any issues.
But if you’re sensitive, if you have MCAS or Histamine Intolerance, some of these fillers can be mast cell triggers or high in histamine.
People with MCAS can react to almost anything, so it’s important to listen to your body. And take a few notes.
We pay close attention to patterns with clients.
These are a few of the ingredients that are known high histamine or mast cell triggering ingredients, and commonly cause issues for our sensitive community:
Citric acid and citrates(like magnesium citrate or calcium citrate) – these are made through fermentation, which means they’re high in histamineArtificial colors, flavors, and preservatives– can trigger mast cells in sensitive peopleCorn-derived ingredients– like corn starch or maltodextrin (especially if you are sensitive to corn)Titanium dioxide– the white coating on many tablets
You can get a list of fillers to watch for and read more about some of the basics in our post The Best Antihistamines for Histamine Intolerance and MCAS
Not everyone reacts to any amount of these. For example, someone may tolerate a bit of citric acid in 1 supplement but having it in 3 or 4 might be too much.
And sensitivities tend to improve as you heal.
But if you are reacting to multiple supplements from different brands and struggling to onboard things in general, fillers might be part of why.
This week’s Practitioner Tip for paid subscribers also walks you through:
The full list of ingredients to watch for (and what to look for instead)
How to read supplement labels like a MCAS pro
What to do if you suspect filler issues
When compounding might be the answer
PLUS, a printable Ingredient Checklist and wallet cardpaid subscribers can add to your pdf onhow to onboard supplements slowly with MCAS
If you’ve been struggling to tolerate supplements even when starting low and slow, this might be part of what’s missing.
Together in healing,The Mast Cell 360 Team
PS If you are going slow, using clean supplements, and still struggling to onboard anything at all, it’s probably time to take a closer look at your environment and your nervous system.
We’re grateful for this community, whether you’re free or paid.
Questions? Email support@mastcell360.com
It’s important you know that Mast Cell 360 resources are for informational and educational purposes. Mast Cell 360 does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prescribe for any disease or medical condition. Recommendations are based on the opinion of Mast Cell 360 and are not meant to replace the care of a medical practitioner. Always consult your physician before changing your healthcare regimen. Supplements/products mentioned are not designed to treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. And these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may make a very small commission if you purchase through the link. It never costs you any more to purchase through the links, and we try to find the best deals we can. We only recommend products that we love and use personally or use in our practice. Any commissions help support the newsletter, website, and ongoing research so we can continue to offer you free tips, recipes, and info. Thank you for your support!
