Show Notes
Histamine and MCAS are everywhere on the internet right now, but there’s a huge piece missing from the conversation. Genetics.
In this episode, I’m joined by two board-certified genetic counselors, Natalie Samson and Sarah Upp of Golden Genetics. They’re here to break down what’s going on at a DNA level when it comes to histamine intolerance, MCAS, connective tissue disorders, and the symptoms so many vestibular warriors are navigating.
The biggest takeaway might just be how you can start advocating for yourself with your providers (especially if these things are new to them). This one is dense, practical, and unlike any conversation I’ve had on this podcast before.
In this episode, we’ll dig into:
How genetic changes affect how your body works
How your environment and genetics work together
The pentad super syndrome
Why weak connective tissue may be at the root of these overlapping conditions
What happens when the DAO and HMT genes aren’t working well
Where histamine comes from and how to empty it
The barn analogy for understanding mast cell stabilization
Why a low histamine diet isn’t meant to be forever
Foods to add in that lower histamine
The two panels Golden Genetics recommends
Why methylation matters for histamine breakdown
What to do when testing for MCAS doesn’t give clear answers
How to advocate for yourself when a provider dismisses MCAS as a social media diagnosis
The ongoing research between Golden Genetics and the vestibular migraine community
How to use the 2026 MCAS guidelines flowchart at your next appointment
Histamine intolerance and MCAS aren’t just about what you’re eating.
They’re rooted in your genetics, and understanding your specific DNA can help you stop guessing and start identifying the right interventions for your body.
Related Episodes:
Toxic Products That May Be Making Your Dizziness Worse w/ Dr. Zach Spiritos: https://thevertigodoctor.com/podcast/53-toxic-products-that-may-be-making-your-dizziness-worse/
Meet Natalie Samson & Sarah Upp
Natalie Samson and Sarah Upp are both board-certified genetic counselors and the team behind Golden Genetics, an integrative genetic counseling practice. They specialize in helping people understand their DNA, order the right tests and turn results into a personalized action plan—with a special focus on histamine, inflammation, connective tissue, and nutrigenomics.
Natalie founded Golden Genetics to bring genetics into the integrative health conversation, and together she and Sarah are currently conducting research on the genetic links to vestibular migraine.
Connect w/ Natalie Samson & Sarah Upp:
Website: www.goldengeneticshealth.com
What is a logistics call with Golden Genetics? https://goldengenetics.practicebetter.io/#/652843bfc5600d631946d7b9/bookings?r=67d88822ff4b8cf37956c65d&step=services
Book a logistics call with Golden Genetics: https://www.goldengeneticshealth.com/book-a-discovery-call-1
Pre-test session with Sarah: https://goldengenetics.practicebetter.io/#/687574970c2232e0dccceef5/bookings?r=69bb16570d392e7826c8903b
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldengeneticshealth
Links Mentioned:
Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit
2026 MCAS Guidelines flowchart: https://www.mastcellaction.org/assets/_/2025/04/01/d6de24e1-f6f6-4248-a3f4-12866d7bf713/mast-cell-activation-syndrome-mcas-a-primary-care-guide-final.pdf
Free Resources:
The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n
The PPPD Management Masterclass: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd
What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership
The FREE Mini VGFit Workout: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit
The FREE POTS – safe Workouts: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots
Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/th
More from Grounded | The Vestibular Podcast
If you hadn’t heard yet, Daylight Saving Time is coming up on November 1st. If you have a vestibular disorder, that one-hour shift can do a number on your routine, sleep, and symptoms.
One of the most common things I hear from people with vestibular disorders is how hard it feels to do things with family (especially kids).
In this episode, we’re going to cover some common questions about advocating for treatments at the doctor’s office, which can occur for a few different reasons.
If you have a vestibular disorder, there’s a good chance your thyroid is part of the story.
Histamine is quite possibly the most popular buzzword in healthcare right now and for good reason.