Onion Bhaji Histamine Information

Onion Bhaji, a traditional Indian snack, comprises primarily of onions as the main ingredient, along with punctuations of gram flour, spices, and herbs. The dish is often served with chutney or raita, bringing a perfect blend of flavors to the palate. However, its fusion of ingredients could be a vital aspect in understanding its impact on histamine levels in the body. Onions, the primary ingredient in Bhaji, can act as histamine liberators, triggering histamine release in the body. This phenomenon occurs as onions contain quercetin, a known inhibitor of the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO). DAO is responsible for breaking down histamines in the body. When inhibited, histamines could potentially increase. However, onions also contain bioflavonoids that may actually decrease the severity of a histamine reaction by stabilizing mast cells (the cells that release histamine). This essentially makes the effects of onions on histamine levels contradictory, dependent on individual sensitivities. Gram flour, another vital part of the dish's makeup, is derived from chickpeas, which do not make the list of high histamine foods or histamine liberators. However, research is limited around their ability to affect or lower histamine levels. Spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, typically used in Onion Bhaji, have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties. In particular, studies indicate that turmeric, owing to its active constituent curcumin, could potentially reduce histamine levels by inhibiting histamine release from mast cells. It’s important to acknowledge that personal histamine tolerance might vary. The above investigation is a broad view but might not apply to individuals with specific dietary sensitivities and therefore should not replace individual testing and professional advice. **References:** 1. [Quercetin and Its Anti-Allergic Immune Response, 2016](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273625/) 2. [Molecular targets of curcumin for cancer therapy, 2016](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13277-016-5163-z) Please note that the effects of certain foods on histamine levels are complex and may vary from person to person, therefore it is crucial to consult a certified dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.