101. Low-Histamine Cooking Made Easy with a Celebrity Chef James Barry

Are you tired of feeling restricted by your food choices due to histamine intolerance? Does the idea of managing your symptoms without sacrificing flavor seem impossible? In this episode, we're tackling the Low Histamine Diet head-on with culinary expert James Barry. We explore how to eat delicious, satisfying meals that support your health, without the overwhelm. If you've ever struggled with leftovers, processed foods, or the tricky task of avoiding high-histamine ingredients, this conversation is for you. James, a celebrity chef with over 16 years of experience, shares his journey and practical tips for navigating the world of food sensitivities. From real, unprocessed foods to the hidden pitfalls of "all-natural" labels, this episode dives deep into what it truly means to cook for health. Let's break down the myths and arm you with actionable strategies to enjoy food again, even with histamine intolerance. Key Points: The truth about processed foods and why they're sabotaging your health goals We discuss the importance of eating real ingredients instead of processed products. Misleading claims on food packaging can hide unwanted additives, and even "organic" options might still come with chemical coatings. Understanding the histamine load: What foods should you avoid and why? We break down the confusing list of high-histamine foods. Things like ripe fruit and processed meats often raise questions, and we share tips on how to identify which ones might be triggering issues for you. How to manage histamine intolerance without feeling overwhelmed We talk about the mindset shift needed to avoid the trap of perfectionism. It's about listening to your body and becoming a "food detective" to figure out what works and what doesn't—rather than trying to follow rigid rules. Practical kitchen tips for a low-histamine diet We cover strategies to prevent histamine build-up, such as handling leftovers quickly and focusing on fresh ingredients. Slow eating and mindful meal prep can also make a big difference in how you feel afterward. Navigating the grocery store with histamine intolerance: What to buy and what to avoid We discuss the importance of reading labels and staying aware of unregulated flavor additives. Making thoughtful, informed decisions helps ensure you choose foods that support rather than sabotage your health. Why local sourcing matters for managing histamine intolerance We explain how buying directly from local farmers can significantly reduce the histamine load. When you know exactly where your food comes from, it's easier to trust what goes into it—and that extra step can be well worth the effort. This episode is a must-listen if you're struggling with histamine intolerance and want to enjoy food again. James Barry delivers practical, grounded advice on how to simplify your approach to food without sacrificing taste. With his tips, you'll be able to create meals that not only fit your health needs but also bring back the joy of eating. Whether it's navigating the grocery store or rethinking how you prepare meals, you'll come away with actionable steps you can start implementing today. Don't forget – the low histamine diet is a tool, not the solution itself. Find the root cause of your histamine intolerance, and let food be a part of your healing journey. How to Connect with Dr. Meg: Apply to work 1:1 with Dr. Meg: HERE Free Guide: Essential Guide to Histamine Intolerance for simple steps and protocols you can start today to improve your gut health. You can also follow along on Instagram @drmegmill for daily health tips! Website: www.megmill.com Our Guest: James Barry Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjamesbarry/?hl=en This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program. This podcast is for women in perimenopause and beyond who are struggling with fatigue, brain fog, bloating, weight loss resistance, and unpredictable hormones. If you're dealing with exhaustion, low energy, digestive discomfort, or hormone imbalances, you'll learn how to support your metabolism, balance hormones naturally, beat IBS and bloating, and finally break through stubborn weight gain. Discover science-backed strategies to optimize digestion, improve gut health, and manage perimenopause symptoms—without restrictive diets or endless supplements. Whether it's addressing estrogen dominance, blood sugar balance, or adrenal fatigue, this podcast gives you the tools to take control of your health and feel vibrant again. If you are enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a review or share it with a friend. If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too! Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow, Just Ingredients Podcast, Longevity with Nathalie Niddam, Wellness Mama, The Dr. Josh Axe Show, Ancient Health Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Hormone Solution with Karen Martel, The Dr. Hyman Show, The Thyroid Fixer with Dr. Amie Hornaman, Treated with Dr. Sara, Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin, Better! with Dr. Stephanie, Energized with Dr. Mariza