Angioedema Diet and Nutrition: Insights into Managing Hereditary Angioedema
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare condition affecting about 1 in 50,000 people, characterised by excessive swelling due to an imbalance in inflammatory proteins [1]. While there's no definitive list of foods that universally trigger HAE, some people may find that certain foods can exacerbate symptoms.
Medical experts recommend maintaining a heart-healthy diet due to the association between HAE and an increased risk of heart disease [2]. A Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, has been associated with lower rates of heart disease [3].
For individuals with HAE, identifying personal triggers is crucial. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help track patterns and identify potential food-related triggers, as reactions can vary significantly from person to person [1][4]. Some common food triggers include onion, garlic, citrus fruits, and certain types of fish, but this list is not exhaustive [1].
Once identified, it's advisable to avoid exposure to known allergens or potential food triggers. Maintaining a balanced diet can also help avoid physical stress or illness, which can precipitate attacks [1].
When it comes to supplements, there's not enough evidence to suggest that people with HAE need to take specific supplements. However, a healthcare professional may recommend a multivitamin and mineral supplement depending on the frequency of HAE episodes [6].
Some research has explored the potential role of omega-3s and vitamin D in HAE, as both nutrients may play a part in reducing inflammation in the body [5]. A person with HAE can increase their intake of omega-3s by eating more fatty fish such as trout, mackerel, salmon, sardines, and anchovies. They can also discuss supplementation with their doctor [5].
It's worth noting that an excess of bradykinin, an inflammatory protein, results from the deficiency of C1 inhibitor proteins in HAE, causing fluid to leak from blood vessels and resulting in excessive swelling [1]. Some research suggests that reducing histamine intake may lessen the severity of swelling in some people with HAE [6]. Foods high in histamines include fermented foods, citrus fruits, aged cheeses, processed meats, and alcohol [6].
Beyond dietary considerations, other management strategies include avoiding physical trauma, emotional stress, infections, certain medications, and taking precautions during surgeries or dental work [1][5]. Because HAE attacks can occur spontaneously without clear triggers, tracking events around attacks is important for preventive care [1].
In conclusion, while there's no universal "HAE trigger food," individuals are advised to track their diet and avoid any specific foods they find precipitate attacks, alongside broader measures to reduce known triggers and stressors. A collaborative approach with healthcare professionals can help manage HAE effectively.
References: 1. Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) - NHS (UK) 2. HAE and Heart Disease - HAE UK 3. Mediterranean Diet - Mayo Clinic 4. Food Triggers - HAE UK 5. Omega-3s and Vitamin D - HAE UK 6. Histamine Intake - HAE UK
In the management of Hereditary Angioedema (HAE), a person may find it beneficial to maintain a diet focused on health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and nutrition, such as a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, as this has been associated with lower rates of heart disease. Additionally, avoidance of food triggers identified through personal tracking can help reduce the risk of HAE attacks. These triggers, which vary significantly from person to person, can include common items like onion, garlic, citrus fruits, and certain fish, as well as foods high in histamines like fermented foods, citrus fruits, aged cheeses, processed meats, and alcohol.
