Tyramine in food
Nutritional approach
Tyramine is a compound that is naturally produced in the body and also present in certain foods. It is generally safe and causes no adverse effects in most people.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and drugs with similar properties prevent the breakdown of tyramine present in the body and in certain foods. People taking these classes of medication may be at risk of having unsafe levels of tyramine build up in their blood. Too much tyramine can lead to hypertension and a potentially fatal hypertensive crisis.
In this situation, it's best to avoid foods containing high levels of tyramine.
Tyramine-rich foods may contribute to triggering migraine attacks in people with a possible tyramine sensitivity. However, the most recent research remains inconclusive on whether migraine sufferers should follow a low-tyramine diet. If you think you're sensitive to tyramine, you may wish to consult a nutritionist for help identifying potential dietary triggers.
Wine and foods that have been aged, fermented, pickled, or smoked tend to contain significant amounts of tyramine. In addition, improperly stored or spoiled foods are more likely to have high tyramine levels. That's why you may be advised to eat only fresh foods, meaning no leftovers or foods that are past their best-before date.
The following table lists examples of high-tyramine, low-tyramine, and tyramine-free foods.
| Food | High-tyramine To be avoided | Low-tyramine or tyramine-free Permissible |
|---|---|---|
| Meat, poultry, fish, and high-protein foods | Dried and smoked meats:
| Unaged meat Fresh and properly stored (refrigerated) meat, poultry, or fish Soy beverages Fresh or canned legumes
|
| Dairy products | Unpasteurized, strong, aged cheeses:
| Unfermented dairy products:
|
| Fruits and vegetables | Sauerkraut Very ripe fruit
| Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables |
| Grain products | Sourdough bread | Cereals Bread Pasta Rice |
| Alcohol* | Draft or home-brewed beer Wine | Bottled or canned beer Gin Rum Vodka |
| Condiments and sauces | Broths Fermented fish sauce Soy sauce Teriyaki sauce | Ketchup Worcestershire sauce Salad dressings (most) |
| Other | Concentrated yeast or brewer's yeast products | Coffee Cooking oils Tea |
*Tyramine absorption is slowed when alcohol is consumed with food.
This list is not exhaustive. People on MAOIs or drugs with similar properties are advised to avoid these foods during treatment, and a few weeks after treatment. Consult a nutritionist for help developing a well-balanced diet that contains varied and safe foods.
Be sure to tell your pharmacist and other healthcare professionals that you are taking a MAOI or a drug with similar properties.
Always watch your diet:
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.