Lemon-Lime Soda Histamine Information

Lemon-Lime Soda, a beverage enjoyed by many, has potential effects on histamine levels due to its ingredients. The primary components of Lemon-Lime Soda are carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, natural flavors, sodium citrate, and sodium benzoate. The lemon-lime flavors, derived from citric acid, might be of interest. Citric acid primarily originates from citrus fruits such as lemons and limes. Citrus fruits have been classified as histamine liberators, suggesting that consuming Lemon-Lime Soda could potentially stimulate the release of histamine in the body (Maintz, L., & Novak, N. 2007. Histamine and histamine intolerance. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(5), 1185-1196.). High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn and is a common ingredient in many beverages. There is no concrete evidence found in scientific literature indicating that high fructose corn syrup has a direct influence on histamine levels. Sodium benzoate, the preservative used in Lemon-Lime Soda, has been associated with an increase in histamine levels (Theron, M., Huang, Y., Chen, L., & Ramachela, K. 2015. Sodium benzoate and its metabolite, hippuric acid, induce ultrastructural changes in rat hepatocytes). Sodium benzoate inhibits the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), responsible for breaking down histamine in the body, potentially leading to a delay in histamine breakdown and thus, an increase in histamine levels. However, the overall impact of Lemon-Lime Soda on histamine levels will likely depend on individual responses as histamine intolerance varies from person to person. While some people may exhibit symptoms associated with high histamine levels after consuming this beverage, others may not. At this time, more research is needed to provide a definitive link between Lemon-Lime Soda and histamine levels.