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Nutmeg

Moderate histamine

Nutmeg is moderately flagged for histamine sensitivity, and its intensely concentrated flavor means even small amounts carry a meaningful dose.

Nutmeg is a potent spice used in small quantities, but those small quantities can still be significant for sensitive individuals.

  • Highly concentrated — nutmeg has an intense flavor profile and is used in tiny amounts, but the compounds responsible for its taste and aroma are also present in high concentrations, which may matter for histamine-sensitive people

  • Hidden in sweet and savory dishes — nutmeg appears in béchamel sauce, mulled wine, baked goods, and spice blends, so it can be present in dishes where you might not think to look for it

Being aware of nutmeg as a background ingredient in creamy sauces and baked goods is useful if you're trying to track patterns.

Track your reactions to nutmeg in Histamine Tracker. Log meals and symptoms to spot the patterns that matter for your body.

For educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personal guidance.

References

  1. SIGHI Food Compatibility List — SIGHI (2026)
  2. Histamine and histamine intolerance — Maintz & Novak (2007)
  3. Histamine Intolerance: The Current State of the Art — Comas-Basté et al. (2020)
  4. Low-Histamine Diets: Is the Exclusion of Foods Justified by Their Histamine Content? — Sánchez-Pérez et al. (2021)
  5. Histamine Intolerance: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Beyond — Jochum (2024)
  6. Guideline on management of suspected adverse reactions to ingested histamine — Reese et al. (2021)