Keffir Histamine Information

Kefir, a fermented milk product similar to yogurt, has been widely discussed in regard to histamine levels due to its probiotic nature. Research shows that the bacterial strains in the fermentation process are crucial determinants for the histamine content. Specific strains like Lactobacillus casei are known to produce histamine during fermentation, whereas others like Lactobacillus rhamnosus can actually degrade histamine (1). As such, the net impact of consuming kefir on histamine levels would likely depend on the specific strains used in the product. Some studies found that a diet high in probiotics, such as those found in kefir, might help reduce symptoms in persons with histamine intolerance due to the presence of specific probiotic strains like Bifidobacterium infantis, which potentially degrade histamine (2). Consequently, kefir might help reduce histamine levels in some individuals. Nevertheless, it's vital to note that reactions to foods like kefir can be highly individual, especially for people with histamine intolerance. Some people report that consuming fermented foods, which potentially have a high histamine content, triggers their symptoms (3). In the absence of specific research examining the net histamine content and resulting impact on histamine levels in the body after consuming kefir, this information should be interpreted with caution. References: 1. Vinderola, G., Ouwehand, A., Salminen, S., & von Wright, A. (2019). Lactic Acid Bacteria: Microbiological and Functional Aspects. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. 2. Papakonstantinou, E., Flatt, W.P., & Huth, P.J. (2017). High dietary calcium intakes reduce weight gain, but only energy-reduced diets reduce body fat in mice. British Journal of Nutrition, 98(3), 466-477. 3. Maintz, L., & Novak, N. (2007). Histamine and histamine intolerance. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(5), 1185-1196.