Are grapes and cherries low in histamine?

Histamine Content in Grapes and Cherries

Grapes and cherries are generally considered low-histamine fruits and can be safely consumed by most individuals with histamine intolerance. 1

Histamine Content Classification

Histamine intolerance results from an imbalance between accumulated histamine and the body's capacity to degrade it, primarily through the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO). Understanding which foods contain low levels of histamine is crucial for managing this condition.

Low-Histamine Fruits:

• Grapes: Fresh grapes are classified as low-histamine fruits
• Cherries: Fresh cherries are also considered low-histamine fruits

Important Considerations:

• Freshness matters: Even low-histamine fruits like grapes and cherries can develop higher histamine levels during storage 1
• Individual tolerance varies: Some people with histamine intolerance may still react to these fruits despite their low histamine content 1, 2
• Ripeness affects histamine: Overripe fruits generally contain more histamine than fresh ones 2

Why These Fruits Are Generally Well-Tolerated

1. Low natural histamine content: Fresh grapes and cherries naturally contain minimal amounts of histamine
2. Not fermented: Unlike foods like wine (made from grapes), these fresh fruits haven't undergone fermentation, which significantly increases histamine levels 2
3. Not classified as histamine liberators: Unlike some other fruits, grapes and cherries are not typically considered histamine-releasing foods 1

Potential Exceptions and Cautions

Despite being classified as low-histamine, there are some important caveats:

• Storage conditions: Improper storage can increase histamine content 1
• Processing: Dried or processed versions may contain higher histamine levels
• Individual sensitivity: Some people with severe histamine intolerance may still react to even low levels 3
• Other biogenic amines: Some fruits contain other biogenic amines like putrescine that can interfere with histamine degradation 2

Practical Recommendations

For those with histamine intolerance who wish to consume grapes and cherries:

• Choose fresh fruits rather than stored ones
• Consume fruits shortly after purchase
• Refrigerate to slow histamine formation
• Start with small amounts to test individual tolerance
• Consider organic varieties to minimize potential chemical triggers
• Avoid overripe fruits which may contain more histamine

Diagnostic Approach

If you suspect histamine intolerance, a 4-week elimination diet followed by systematic reintroduction is recommended to identify personal triggers 1. This can help determine if grapes and cherries specifically cause symptoms in your case.

Remember that histamine intolerance symptoms can vary widely and may include headaches, digestive issues, skin reactions, and respiratory symptoms. The response to low-histamine foods like grapes and cherries can serve as one indicator of histamine sensitivity.