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

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 [e-mail] to receive the document. 

RESOURCES:

Virginia Ziulu on Instagram: @virginiashealthcorner

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

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.

DISCLAIMER:...