Tyramine
Great question! Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound found in certain foods, especially those that are aged, fermented, smoked, or pickled. It can trigger headaches or migraines in sensitive people and interact with certain medications (like MAOIs).
๐ง๐ท Foods High in Tyramine:
- ๐ง Aged Cheeses
- Cheddar
- Parmesan
- Blue cheese
- Swiss
- Gouda
- Brie
- Roquefort
๐ Cured or Processed Meats
- Salami
- Pepperoni
- Ham
- Bacon
- Sausages
- Hot dogs
๐ท Fermented or Alcoholic Beverages
- Red wine
- Beer (especially draft or home-brewed)
- Sherry
- Vermouth
๐ฅก Fermented Foods
- Soy sauce
- Miso
- Tempeh
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Tofu (especially aged or fermented types)
๐ฅ Pickled or Aged Foods
- Pickles
- Olives
- Pickled herring
- ๐ Some Overripe Fruits & Others
- Bananas (especially overripe)
- Avocados (especially very ripe)
- Figs
- Raisins
❗ Who should watch out?
- People with migraine sensitivity
- People taking MAOI medications (for depression or Parkinson’s)
- Some with tyramine intolerance
Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound found in various foods and beverages. It is a monoamine, similar to neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.
Function in the Body:
Tyramine plays a role in regulating blood pressure and heart rate. It is typically broken down by an enzyme called monoamine oxidase (MAO).
Sources of Tyramine:
Tyramine is present in higher concentrations in fermented, aged, or spoiled foods, including:
- Aged cheeses (e.g., cheddar, blue cheese)
- Fermented meats (e.g., salami, pepperoni)
- Soy sauce
- Sauerkraut
- Dried fruits (e.g., raisins, apricots)
- Chocolate
- Coffee
Health Implications:
For most people, tyramine is harmless. However, individuals taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a type of antidepressant medication, should avoid high-tyramine foods.
When MAOIs are consumed with tyramine, the enzyme cannot break down tyramine, leading to a buildup in the body. This can cause a "tyramine reaction," which may include:
High blood pressure, Headache, Rapid heartbeat, Nausea, and Chest pain.
Conclusion:
Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound that can have health implications for individuals taking MAOI medications. It is important to be aware of the sources of tyramine and to avoid them if necessary. If you are taking MAOIs, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance on managing tyramine intake.
