In this episode of The Histamine Well Podcast, Joanne explores how Helicobacter pylori can drive histamine intolerance, SIBO, and hormone imbalances — even when classic ulcer or reflux symptoms are absent.

Joanne explains how H. pylori survives stomach acid through urease activity, producing ammonia that lowers hydrochloric acid levels. This disruption to stomach acidity can impair protein digestion, reduce mineral absorption, weaken pathogen control, and interfere with pancreatic enzymes and bile flow. The downstream result may include fermentation, mast cell activation, and rising histamine levels throughout the body.

She unpacks how low stomach acid and H. pylori can contribute to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), creating what she describes as a “histamine storm” — a cycle of inflammation, gas, gut permeability, and systemic symptoms such as hives, eczema, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, food reactions, and worsening PMS or perimenopause.

Joanne also discusses the treatment dilemma surrounding triple therapy (antibiotics plus proton pump inhibitors), how PPIs may further lower stomach acid, and when natural strategies such as sulforaphane and gut-healing supports may be appropriate.

If you are struggling with persistent histamine symptoms, hormone chaos, or SIBO that doesn’t fully resolve, this episode explores a deeper root cause that is often overlooked.