thyme
Herbs & Spices
Is thyme high in polyols?
Find out whether thyme is high or low in polyols, see its exact rating, and check its FODMAP, salicylate, oxalate and diet compatibility all in one place.
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Sensitivity notes
Why polyols food checker matters
Polyols (sugar alcohols) are found naturally in some fruits and vegetables, and are used as artificial sweeteners. They're poorly absorbed and can cause digestive symptoms, especially in IBS sufferers.
- Avoid sugar-free products with sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol
- Stone fruits are naturally high in polyols
- Cooking doesn't reduce polyol content
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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Polyols Guide
Everything you need to know about polyols sensitivity and smart food choices.
Polyols (sugar alcohols) are found naturally in some fruits and vegetables, and are used as artificial sweeteners. They're poorly absorbed and can cause digestive symptoms, especially in IBS sufferers.
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 Polyols sensitivity:
View all safe options
These foods have moderate levels and may be tolerated in small amounts:
These foods are high in polyols and may trigger symptoms:
View full list
If you're sensitive to Polyols, consider these strategies:
- 1Avoid sugar-free products with sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol
- 2Stone fruits are naturally high in polyols
- 3Cooking doesn't reduce polyol content
- 4Avocado portion size matters - small amounts may be fine
- 5Cauliflower and mushrooms are common triggers
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 Polyols?
Polyols: low signal for most people.
Can I still eat thyme if I'm sensitive to Polyols?
Usually fine in normal portions.
What else should I check?
Check Salicylates, Histamine Liberators, and Oxalates next for a fuller picture.