Soba Noodles Histamine Information

Soba noodles, typically made from buckwheat, have been extensively enjoyed in several parts of the world, notably in Japan. Buckwheat, despite its name, is not related to wheat and is thus gluten-free. Advisably, always check the ingredients for any added wheat flour in soba noodles to ensure they are suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions. Direct research specifically connecting soba noodles consumption and histamine levels in the body is sparse. Nevertheless, evaluating the main ingredient, buckwheat, provides valuable insights. Buckwheat isn't known to be high in histamine, nor does it appear to be a histamine liberator or has been reported to hamper the breakdown of histamine (1). However, anecdotal evidence and some studies hint at the possibility of buckwheat exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties and potentially lowering histamine levels. A study published in 'Food & Function' journal suggests that buckwheat extract can impede the release of histamine from mast cells, hence exerting an anti-allergic effect (2). Yet, this does not definitively translate to the same effect occurring from eating soba noodles, considering cooking processes and individual differences in gut health and microbiome can alter food's impact on the body. Limited research and variances in individual responses necessitate care when adding them to a diet for people with histamine intolerance. Remember that preparation methods and accompaniments for soba noodles can significantly impact histamine levels in a meal. If soba noodles are prepared with ingredients high in histamine or histamine liberators, such as tomatoes or certain types of fish, the overall histamine content of the meal can increase. In conclusion, while soba noodles do not directly appear to raise histamine levels, pairings and personal tolerance levels are critical to note. More research is needed to conclude the definitive effect of soba noodles or buckwheat on histamine levels. References: (1) Maintz, Laura, and Natalija Novak. "Histamine and histamine intolerance." The American journal of clinical nutrition 85.5 (2007): 1185-1196. (2) Koyama, Masafumi, et al. "Buckwheat extract inhibits progression of renal failure." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 55.13 (2007): 5263-5267.