We all know fresh foods is good but do you know why?

Why cooking and eating fresh food is important and  healthy?

Aging of foods tend to increase the levels of histamine in foods. This can add to levels of inflammation in the body when these foods are consumed. Hence, choose fresh foods for greater health.  I did it because my Mom and my Religion (Jainism) told me to do so. But when I learnt the science behind why freshness of food matters I had the Aha moment. Fresh foods are low in histamine. Cook daily. Avoid reheating and leftovers.             Keep reading to learn about histamine in foods we eat.

First co-relation that comes with Histamine is allergies. But what exactly is Histamine? Histamine is a chemical (amine) produced and stored within our body. It is a part of our immune response and is released by cells in response to an allergic or inflammatory reaction.

In addition to the histamine produced inside your body, there are also a variety of foods that naturally contain histamine, cause the release of histamine or block the enzyme that breaks down histamine – (DAO) Diamine oxidase.

Histamine-rich foods: Fermenting and aging makes foods histamine rich.

  • Fermented alcoholic beverages like wine, champagne, beer
  • Fermented foods like sauerkraut, vinegar, soy sauce, kefir, yogurt
  • Vinegar-containing foods like pickles, olives
  • Dried fruit like prunes, dates, figs, raisins
  • Aged cheese
  • Nuts like walnuts, cashews, peanuts

Fermented foods  are considered healthy and have long history of benefits extending back 8000 years. They are considered first pro-biotics  due to the growth and use of bacteria during fermentation. If you think any of the above food is problematic for you, it may be stimulating release of histamine in your body.

Histamine – releasing foods: are foods that  promote the release of histamine from the immune cells in the body. Put them on watch list but not necessarily avoid. Listen to your body. If you feel it does not suit you, the reason is high histamine.

  • Tomatoes
  • Strawberries
  • Papaya
  • Pineapple
  • Mangoes
  • Tangerines
  • Banana
  • Artificial dyes and preservatives

Can you co-relate a situation where you had some fermented food and you felt it did not suit you? Not a life threatening reaction but some swelling or joint pain or rash? Well it might mean that particular food triggered a high histamine release. 

What are anti-histamines?

Antihistamines work by preventing the release of histamine from certain cells (mast cells) thereby blocking the allergic reaction. Turmeric is a natural anti-histamine. Taking 1 tbsp of turmeric powder can work as a substitute for medications. It is a vital part of the Indian spice family and an essential ingredient in Indian cooking.

– Free eBook –

Why the scale won’t budge despite fad diets, dangerous pills, and/or crazy workouts?

We guarantee 100% privacy. Your information will not be shared.
Niti Shah

Niti Shah

Niti is a health detective who will treat you and not just your symptoms. Her approach is mirrored in the practice name- Back2Basics- treat the root cause and symptoms will disappear. Her mission is to create health and reverse disease by using both undo and redo buttons of functional medicine. Since we are drowning in information, her goal is to not overload you but rather synthesize and give you practical strategies to attain exceptional outcomes. She will meet you where you are in your health and wellness spectrum and guide you further.

Signup to get my bi-weekly nutritious newsletter delivered to your inbox. You won't regret it, I promise!

Signup here to get my Nutritious Newsletter and fill your email plate with facts, recipes, and myth busters

* indicates required