thyme
Herbs & Spices
Is thyme high in glutamates?
Find out whether thyme 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 thyme
Thyme is a Mediterranean herb that carries salicylates, so it is worth a second look if you are salicylate-sensitive and react to aspirin-rich foods. The good news for anyone who cooks with it constantly in roasts, stocks and slow braises is that thyme tests a step lower on salicylates than rosemary or oregano, and it is clean on histamine, FODMAPs, gluten and nightshade. A sprig tucked into a stock is a small dose; a herb-heavy marinade is where salicylate-sensitive people notice it.
Watch for
Moderate salicylate, though a notch below rosemary and oregano, so it is the gentler pick among the woody Mediterranean herbs if you tolerate small amounts / Slight oxalate content, only relevant in the concentrated dried form used generously / A mild histamine-liberating note, rarely an issue at culinary sprig quantities
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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 thyme high in Glutamates?
Glutamates: moderate signal - portion size matters.
Can I still eat thyme if I'm sensitive to Glutamates?
Try smaller portions and space it out.
What else should I check?
Check Salicylates, Histamine Liberators, and Oxalates next for a fuller picture.