Histamine is a chemical that naturally occurs in some foods. The human body has an enzyme that helps break down histamines from food, but those who have a low level of the enzyme are prone to allergy symptoms such as itching, abdominal pain, headaches and rashes when they eat foods that contain histamines, according to Allergy UK. If you frequently experience adverse reactions to food, you may want to consult your doctor about starting a histamine restricted diet.
Foods With Histamine
Foods and drinks that have been fermented in the manufacturing process contain histamine, according to the International Chronic Urticaria Society. Some foods, such as spinach and eggplant, naturally contain high levels of histamine. Also, some food additives -- such as preservatives and azo dyes -- cause a release of histamine. Certain chemicals that are used as preservatives, such as benzoates, occur naturally in some foods -- particularly fruits -- and can release histamine in the same way that the additive does.
Dairy
Dairy foods such as plain milk, cottage cheese and ricotta cheese are allowed in a histamine restricted diet, according to the International Chronic Urticaria Society. However, all other dairy products, such as yogurt, sour cream, sour milk, buttermilk and cheese -- particularly those such as Parmesan and Roquefort -- are off-limits, according to the Michigan Allergy, Sinus & Asthma Specialists.
Cereals and Breads
Plain grains and breads, such as fresh buns with unbleached grain or flour, are allowed in a restricted histamine diet. However, they should only be made or purchased as long if they don't contain forbidden ingredients such as cheese and chocolate. Off-limits foods in this category include soured breads such as sourdough and pumpernickel, packaged rice and pasta meals, products that contain artificial flavors and colors, products made with preservatives, products made with bleached flour and commercial packaged dessert mixes such as boxed brownies, according to the International Chronic Urticaria Society.
Fruits and Vegetables
Citrus fruits, berries, apricots, pineapples, dehydrated fruits such as raisins and prunes, dates, pickles and relishes, spinach, tomatoes and tomato sauces and pastes are all off limits. However, fruits such as apples, bananas, cantaloupe, watermelon and grapes are OK. All pure fresh and frozen vegetables and vegetable juices are acceptable except for eggplant, sauerkraut, pumpkin and spinach.
Protein and Fats
Freshly cooked, pure meat and poultry are acceptable in a restricted histamine diet, but all fish, shellfish, processed meats and leftover cooked meats are off limits, according to the International Chronic Urticaria Society. Plain, cooked eggs are also acceptable, but foods and drinks that contain raw egg white and eggs prepared with restricted ingredients are off limits during the restricted histamine diet. Additionally, pure peanut butte, all plain nuts and seeds and plain legumes except soy and red beans are okay. Fats such as pure butter, pure vegetable oil, homemade gravies, lard and meat drippings are acceptable, but prepared gravies, hydrolyzed lecithin, margarine, prepared dressings with restricted ingredients and oils and fats with color and preservatives aren't allowed.
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