Stout Histamine Information

Stout is a type of beer made from roasted malt or barley, hops, water, and yeast. The brewing process and the ingredients used can play a role in increasing or decreasing histamine levels. However, there is limited research specific to Stout. Alcohol, including beer and stout, is known to impede the breakdown of histamine, potentially leading to a buildup which can contribute to symptoms in people sensitive to histamine in the body (1). Yeast, another significant component in stout and other types of beer, also has a natural histamine content and can thus further contribute to elevated histamine levels (2). Notably, beer is a fermented product and fermented foods are generally high in histamine content due to the process of fermentation. (3). However, this can vary, and not all beers might cause a significant rise in histamine levels. On the other hand, it is important to mention the histamine-lowering capability of some ingredients in beer. Hops, a common beer ingredient, have been shown to inhibit the release of histamine from mast cells, potentially counteracting some histamine-inducing ingredients in beer (4). In conclusion, Stout, like other beers, could potentially raise histamine levels, particularly in histamine-sensitive individuals, due to its content of alcohol and yeast and the fermentation process involved in its production. But the effects may be moderate due to the histamine-inhibiting properties of hops. References: 1. Maintz, L., & Novak, N. (2007). Histamine and Histamine Intolerance. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(5), 1185-1196. 2. Hammond, C. J., & Lieberman, P. (2018). Unrecognized anaphylaxis in patients with symptoms suggestive of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 120(2), 199-203. 3. Schnyder, B., & Pichler, W. J. (2015). Mechanisms of Drug-Induced Allergy. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 84(3), 268-272. 4. Janssen, S. (2017). How beer affects your body’s ability to fight allergies. Men's Health.