Lemon Meringue Pie Histamine Information

Lemon Meringue Pie, a popular dessert, comprises mainly of lemon filling, meringue topping and a pastry shell. Considering the ingredients, it is essential to address the impact of these ingredients individually on histamine levels before addressing the whole pie. Starting with lemon, a citrus fruit, it is regarded by some sources as a histamine liberator, meaning while it does not contain histamine, it can stimulate the release of stored histamine in the body. However, this is not a universal agreement as other sources do not classify lemons as histamine liberators [1]. The meringue is primarily comprised of egg whites whipped with sugar. While eggs are generally low in histamine, some people may have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to them which can result in an increased histamine response, although this is not the norm [2][3]. Sugar, another component of meringue, does not have a known impact on histamine levels [2]. The same applies to the main ingredients of the pastry shell, which typically includes flour, butter, and water. While none of the main components of a Lemon Meringue Pie are noted for their ability to lower histamine, neither are they predominantly classified as foods high in histamine or as strong histamine liberators. However, individual responses to food can vary greatly, so it's imperative for individuals with histamine intolerance adhere to dietary recommendations prescribed by a healthcare professional. References: [1] Maintz L, Novak N. Histamine and histamine intolerance. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 May;85(5):1185-96. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/85.5.1185. [2] www.histamineintolerance.org.uk/about/faqs [3] https://www.mastzellaktivierung.info/de/mastzellenfreundliche_und_mastzellaktivierende_lebensmittel.html [4] Ferguson, Bj. (2015). The Everything Guide To The Low-Fodmap Diet: A Healthy Plan for Managing IBS and Other Digestive Disorders. Simon and Schuster.