corn
Grains
Is corn high in glutamates?
Find out whether corn is high or low in glutamates, see its exact rating, and check its FODMAP, salicylate, oxalate and diet compatibility all in one place.
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Sensitivity notes
Why glutamates food checker matters
Glutamates, including MSG, are flavor enhancers found naturally in many foods and added to others. Some people report sensitivity causing headaches, flushing, or other symptoms, though research on 'MSG syndrome' is mixed.
- MSG goes by many names - look for 'glutamate' on labels
- Naturally high in soy sauce, fish sauce, and aged cheeses
- Tomatoes and mushrooms are naturally high in glutamates
Triggers
Diets
Serving size, prep, and portion notes for corn
Corn is naturally gluten-free, so the common worry that it contains gluten is a myth, though corn products milled in wheat facilities can pick up gluten by cross-contact. The real triggers are different: corn is high in free glutamates, the same savory compound behind MSG reactions, and moderately high in salicylates. It is also high in lectins and sits on the pro-inflammatory side, which is why some people feel bloated or headachy after corn even though it passes as a safe grain.
Watch for
High in free glutamates, so it can provoke the same headaches or flushing that people blame on MSG / Moderately high in salicylates, a trigger if you react to aspirin or salicylate-rich foods / High in lectins, which can bother people who are sensitive to them / Naturally gluten-free, but processed corn products can be cross-contaminated with wheat, so check labels if you have celiac disease
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Glutamates Guide
Everything you need to know about glutamates sensitivity and smart food choices.
Glutamates, including MSG, are flavor enhancers found naturally in many foods and added to others. Some people report sensitivity causing headaches, flushing, or other symptoms, though research on 'MSG syndrome' is mixed.
Sensitivity varies widely. What triggers one person may be fine for another. Track your reactions to find your personal threshold.
These foods are generally well-tolerated for Glutamates sensitivity:
View all safe options
These foods have moderate levels and may be tolerated in small amounts:
These foods are high in glutamates and may trigger symptoms:
View full list
If you're sensitive to Glutamates, consider these strategies:
- 1MSG goes by many names - look for 'glutamate' on labels
- 2Naturally high in soy sauce, fish sauce, and aged cheeses
- 3Tomatoes and mushrooms are naturally high in glutamates
- 4Yeast extract and hydrolyzed proteins contain glutamates
- 5Fresh, unprocessed foods are generally lower
Pro tip: Keep a food diary to track your reactions. The Triggerbites app makes this easy with automatic pattern detection.
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Get the AppFAQ
Is corn high in Glutamates?
Glutamates: higher signal - consider smaller servings or swaps.
Can I still eat corn if I'm sensitive to Glutamates?
Best to avoid or test carefully with a small amount.
What else should I check?
Check Lectin, Inflammation, and Paleo AIP next for a fuller picture.