Cinnamon is a very popular spice, not just at Christmas. It's a pungent spice, which raises the question of whether it's suitable for people with histamine intolerance. Here at HistaFood.eu, we'll explain.

Cinnamon and histamine: Is cinnamon a low-histamine spice?

Cinnamon is not only one of the most popular spices, but also one of the oldest – and not just at Christmas time. It tastes delicious mixed into porridge, in rice pudding, sprinkled over apples, or as a topping on a hot drink. It gives Christmas cookies the ultimate winter touch. Cinnamon stars, cinnamon coins, and the like make our mouths water. However, cinnamon is a pungent and warming spice . Can it still be enjoyed without worry by people with histamine intolerance?

Does cinnamon contain histamine?

Cinnamon contains very little histamine , which is why the spice can usually be consumed even on a low-histamine diet. However, if you suffer from a very sensitive gut , cinnamon can irritate the intestinal lining . Normally, enzymes ensure that ingested histamine is broken down in the small intestine. If this process is disrupted, however, even minor irritants like a stronger spice, in this case cinnamon, can cause problems. Those who don't tolerate cinnamon can try cardamom . This spice is generally better tolerated than cinnamon.

Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon: What is the difference?

Ceylon cinnamon is the finest variety and more expensive than cassia cinnamon. The aroma of Ceylon cinnamon is unmistakable and more aromatic. It is mostly grown in Sri Lanka, whereas cassia cinnamon is primarily found in China. Cinnamon obtained from thin layers of the cinnamon tree bark is of higher quality. Ceylon cinnamon is usually labeled as such, while cassia cinnamon is often sold simply as "cinnamon." Ceylon cinnamon contains less coumarin , which is why it should be preferred for regular consumption. Coumarin should not be consumed in excess. It is recommended to store all types of cinnamon, whether cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon, in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its aroma.

Low-histamine foods with cinnamon

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