Leek Soup Histamine Information

Leek soup is a savory dish mainly consisting of leeks, onions, garlic, and typically a type of broth. When considering the impact of this dish on histamine levels, each ingredient must be individually evaluated. Leeks, as part of the Allium family along with onions and garlic, are not particularly high in histamine, nor are they known as histamine liberators, thus not expected to significantly increase histamine levels (1). However, individuals vary greatly, and some people might have different reactions. Onions and garlic, on the other hand, have been shown to inhibit the activity of diamine oxidase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of histamine (1), potentially causing histamine to remain longer in the system. The broth used in leek soup can make a significant difference. If it is a bone broth or stock, it might be high in histamine, particularly if it was prepared using the slow-cooking method (2). None of the ingredients of a typical leek soup are documented to lower histamine levels, although some studies suggest that garlic might have a mild antihistamine effect (3). In conclusion, while leek soup isn't traditionally high in histamine or known to be a histamine liberator, certain components like onions and garlic might potentially delay histamine breakdown in the body, and slow-cooked broths might directly contribute to increased histamine levels. Garlic might offer some mild antihistamine properties. References: 1. Maintz L, Novak N. Histamine and histamine intolerance. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 May;85(5):1185-96. 2. Other amines. In: Severin T, editor. Wine: Nutritional and Therapeutic Benefits. American Chemical Society; 1997. pp. 54–64. 3. Sharma V. Prophylactic efficacy of garlic (Allium sativum) against histamine-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Pharmacogn Mag. 2007;3(9):116