Congee Histamine Information

Congee, a type of rice porridge, is a staple in many Asian diets. Primary ingredients usually include rice and water, often garnished with ingredients such as meats, beans, vegetables, and herbs to enhance flavour. None of the primary ingredients of congee are listed in high-histamine foods, nor as histamine liberators or substances that delay the breakdown of histamine. Rice, being the core ingredient, is often referred to as a low-histamine food, suggesting its safe consumption for those monitoring their histamine levels[1]. However, the impact of congee on histamine levels can greatly depend on the added ingredients or garnishes. For instance, if adding ingredients such as tomatoes, cured meats, or mushrooms, which are high-histamine foods, the overall histamine level of the congee will increase. Similarly, ingredients like pineapples or mushrooms could act as histamine liberators, promoting the release of histamine in the body[2]. On the other hand, including ingredients traditionally considered to lower histamine, such as fresh leafy greens, could potentially reduce the overall histamine level of the dish[3]. In conclusion, while the base of congee itself is not expected to have a significant impact on histamine levels, the final outcome can vary greatly depending on the addition of various ingredients. Therefore, it's important to critically assess all ingredients when preparing and consuming congee for individuals sensitive to histamine. References: 1. "Low Histamine Diet", Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw193567 2. "Foods to Avoid with Histamine Intolerance", South Denver Gastroenterology, P.C. https://www.southdenvergi.com/blog/foods-to-avoid-with-histamine-intolerance 3. "Healing Histamine Intolerance & Mast Cell Activation", Dr. Becky Campbell https://drbeckycampbell.com/healing-histamine-intolerance-mast-cell-activation/