Gin Histamine Information

Gin, like other alcoholic beverages, has been identified as capable of increasing histamine levels in the body. The primary reason for this histamine surge is that alcohol impedes the body's ability to break down and eliminate histamine, therefore allowing it to accumulate, potentially leading to adverse reactions in individuals sensitive to histamine (1). That said, distilled spirits such as gin and vodka reportedly have less histamine content compared to fermented drinks like beer or wine (2). This suggests the impact of gin on histamine might be less severe. Nevertheless, the subsequent hindrance on histamine degradation should not be overlooked. Additionally, gin may also act as a histamine liberator—substances that trigger the body to release histamine. Histamine liberators are not high in histamine themselves. Instead, they propel your cells to release histamine, which subsequently raises the overall histamine level (3). No thorough research has been identified that aligns gin with histamine reducing substances. Yet, if gin contains certain botanicals known for their antihistamine properties, it might possess some histamine-lowering effects. However, this is speculative and needs to be supported by substantive research. In conclusion, consuming gin can potentially increase histamine levels due to its alcohol content slowing down histamine breakdown and its potential as a histamine liberator. The extent of this impact can vary greatly among individuals depending on each person's sensitivity and reaction to histamine. (1) Maintz L, Novak N. Histamine and histamine intolerance. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 May;85(5):1185-96. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/85.5.1185. PMID: 17490952. (2) Foods High in Histamine (Histamine Containing or Releasing Foods). Histamine Sensitivity, http://www.histaminesensitivity.com/histamine_list.html. Accessed on 19 Oct 2021. (3) Komericki P, Klein G, Reider N, Hawranek T, Strimitzer T, Lang R, Kranzelbinder B, Aberer W. Histamine intolerance: lack of reproducibility of single symptoms by oral provocation with histamine: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study. Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2011;123(1-2):15-20. doi: 10.1007/s00508-010-1487-x. Epub 2010 Nov 30. PMID: 21113652.