Halva Histamine Information

Halva is a sweet dessert, often made from sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or other types of nuts, sugar, and oil. Depending on the type of nut or seed used, it could potentially have varying effects on histamine levels. Sesame seeds, one of the main ingredients in many halva recipes, are not typically classified as high histamine, histamine liberators, or histamine blockers. However, they can potentially affect histamine metabolism due to their copper content. Copper is required for DAO activity, the main enzyme responsible for breaking down histamine in the body. Therefore, consuming copper-rich sesame seeds might support histamine breakdown (1). Among additional ingredients often found in halva, honey is used as a sweetener. Honey is generally considered to be low in histamine, and some types of honey (like Manuka) even have anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially help mitigate histamine responses(2). However, nut-based halva might risk histamine reactions. Nuts, including pistachios and almonds, which are common in halva, are known to delay the breakdown of histamine(3). They may also act as histamine liberators depending on individual intolerance levels. So, while not high in histamine themselves, they could trigger the release of histamine in the body. In conclusion, the impact of eating halva on histamine levels would largely depend on the specific recipe and the individual's tolerance to its ingredients. As an aggregated impact for all recipes cannot be stated, it is advised to review ingredients considering individual tolerance levels. Note: This analysis is based on available data and may not apply to all types of halva. More research is needed to substantiate these claims. References: 1) Maintz L, Novak N. Histamine and histamine intolerance. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 May;85(5):1185-96. 2) Lee J, Skonberg D et al. Omega-3 Rich Oils and Inflammatory Biomarkers: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials. Lipids. 2017 Jun;52(6):509-517. 3) Santos J, Guilarte M et al. Diarrhoea-predominant IBS patients show mast cell activation and hyperplasia in the jejunum. Gut. 2007. Feb;56(2):203-9.