Mast Cell Activation
What Does It Mean?
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a condition in which mast cells release excessive inflammatory mediators, leading to widespread symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. These cells play a key role in allergic responses and immune defense, but their dysregulation can contribute to chronic inflammation. Common causes include:
- Chronic infections and immune dysfunction
- Environmental triggers (mold, toxins, chemicals)
- Food sensitivities
- High histamine intake
- Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut
How Did We Get There?
Diagnosis & Assessment
Patients with MCAS may present with:
- Skin reactions (hives, itching, flushing)
- Respiratory symptoms (wheezing, congestion, shortness of breath)
- Cardiovascular symptoms (palpitations, dizziness, low blood pressure)
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
- Neurological symptoms (brain fog, anxiety, headaches)
Lab Test Findings
The following lab markers help diagnose MCAS and assess its severity:
| Lab Test | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| IgE, Serum | Elevated in allergic reactions and immune dysregulation | 90.00-220.00 IU/mL |
| Tryptase | Increased in mast cell activation | 0.00-8.00 ng/mL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach
Treatment focuses on stabilizing mast cell activity, reducing inflammation, and addressing underlying triggers.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports gut microbiome & immune function | 1 capsule with food daily |
| Endura | Electrolyte balance & hydration support | 1 packet with or without food, three times, daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Prevents bacterial adhesion to gut lining | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Comprehensive probiotic support | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Supports immune function and reduces oxidative stress | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Provides antioxidant support for cellular health | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Helps maintain microbial balance and gut health | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports hormonal and immune balance | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Powerful antioxidant that aids detoxification | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation and neurological health | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Omega | Provides essential fatty acids for inflammatory control | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Enhances digestive health and nutrient absorption | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita Defense | Strengthens immune function | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Supports cardiovascular and immune function | 2 capsules with or without food, twice daily |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle and nerve function | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Promotes tissue repair and gut health | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Enhances glutathione levels for detoxification | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Supports gut immune function | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| Cromolyn Capsules - 100 mg | Stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine response | 10 tablets without food, daily |
| Cromolyn Capsules - 200 mg | Higher dose for advanced mast cell regulation | 10 tablets without food, daily |
| Ketotifen Capsules - 1 mg | Antihistamine that stabilizes mast cell function | 10 tablets without food, daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports microbiome balance and gut health | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Promotes nitric oxide production for cardiovascular health | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Low-Histamine Diet: Avoid high-histamine foods like fermented foods, aged cheese, and alcohol
- Reduce Environmental Triggers: Minimize exposure to mold, chemicals, and allergens
- Gut Health Optimization: Support digestion and microbiome with probiotics and digestive enzymes
- Stress Management: Practice deep breathing, mindfulness, and gentle movement to reduce mast cell activation