Dark Chocolate Chips Histamine Information

Dark Chocolate Chips, a commonly consumed sweet treat, have certain impacts on the histamine level in the body. Primarily, the main component of dark chocolate chips is cocoa, which in some contexts is considered a histamine liberator, capable of triggering the release of histamine within the body (1). However, it might be important to note that dark chocolate, as it contains a greater amount of cocoa compared to milk chocolate, potentially has a higher histamine liberating effect (2). Despite this, the histamine releasing effect of cocoa and products derived from it, such as dark chocolate, varies from person to person and is dependent on individual sensitivities. In contrast, it is also worth pointing out that bioactive compounds present in cocoa might help lower histamine levels. One such compound is quercetin, which is a flavonoid found in cocoa. Quercetin has been identified as a potent inhibitor of the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils, therefore potentially reducing histamine levels in the body (3). In conclusion, the impact of eating dark chocolate chips on histamine levels can be two-fold, possibly leading to the increase or decrease of histamine levels depending on the individual's response. It’s essential for individuals with histamine intolerance or sensitivities to monitor their reactions when consuming cocoa-derived products, such as dark chocolate chips. Cited References: 1. Maintz, L., & Novak, N. (2007). Histamine and histamine intolerance. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(5), 1185–1196. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/85.5.1185 2. Schink, M., Konturek, P. C., Tietz, E., Dieterich, W., Pinzer, T. C., Wirtz, S., Neurath, M. F., Zopf, Y. (2018). Microbial patterns in patients with histamine intolerance. Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.26402/jpp.2018.4.02 3. Mlcek, J., Jurikova, T., Skrovankova, S., & Sochor, J. (2016). Quercetin and Its Anti-Allergic Immune Response. Molecules, 21(5):623. Doi:10.3390/molecules21050623