Jalapeños Histamine Information

Jalapeños are a type of chili pepper that contain various beneficial compounds, including capsaicin, which is the active, spicy compound in chili peppers. This compound affects histamine levels in two ways. Firstly, capsaicin has been found to trigger the release of histamine from certain types of immune cells, called 'mast cells,' which can cause inflammation and itching. Secondly, capsaicin is also a potent inhibitor of the enzyme that breaks down histamine, known as 'diamine oxidase.' Therefore, consuming jalapeños may contribute to an increased histamine level in the body (1). However, it has also been suggested in some studies that the capsaicin in jalapeños can possibly down-regulate the histamine response, thereby reducing its effects (2). Furthermore, another substance in chili peppers, quercetin, is a known inhibitor of histamine release. Hence, it can potentially counterbalance this effect to some extent. While the impact of jalapeños on histamine level has not been thoroughly researched, it's known that they contain several ingredients listed as histamine liberators, such as tomatoes in some jalapeño sauces. Therefore, individuals with histamine intolerance may wish to exercise caution when consuming jalapeños and products containing them. References: 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4473145/ 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103729/ 3. https://foodintolerances.org/downloads/en/food-intolerances.pdf 4. http://www.mastcellaware.com/mast-cells/about-mast-cells/triggers.html 5. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/histamine-intolerance#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2