Custard Powder Histamine Information

Custard powder primarily contains cornflour or cornstarch, sugar, flavorings, and sometimes colorings. Cornstarch itself is not known to have a significant impact on histamine levels, or function as a histamine liberator. Corn, being a grain, is typically considered safe for those with histamine intolerance, being categorized as having low histamine content in general (1). Sugar, another major ingredient in custard powder, does not naturally produce histamine nor does it have any documented effect in triggering the release of histamine. However, sugar can potentially exacerbate reactions in a body that already has a high histamine level because it can stimulate the release of inflammatory cytokines. Yet, this outcome heavily depends on the individual consume's body response and the overall level of histamine present in the body (2). Flavorings and colorings could potentially impact histamine levels, but it varies considerably. Artificial flavorings and colorings can be a histamine trigger in sensitive individuals but this is not uniformly applicable and depends again on the specific types used in the custard powder (3). On the other hand, custard powder also doesn't have any specific components known to lower histamine. It's not high in Vitamin C or flavonoids, both of which can help reduce histamine release or speed up histamine metabolism (4). Therefore, based on its composition, custard powder does not appear to notably affect histamine levels, acting neither as a significant source of histamine, a histamine liberator, nor a histamine reducer. References: 1. Maintz, L., & Novak, N. (2007). Histamine and histamine intolerance. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(5), 1185-1196. 2. Kiefer, D. (2013). Sugar's effect on your immune system and how fresh produce can help | Your Health | Your, Life. Good Living Warehouse. 3. Shah, A. (2018). The histamine and tyramine restricted diet. Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 4. Irwin, R., & Fitzgerald, G. (2017). The health benefits of flavonoids for the aging brain. Journal of Nutraceuticals & Food Science, 2, 1-8.