MAO inhibitors, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, are antidepressants. They were the first kinds of antidepressants in the United States, says MayoClinic.com, and today they are typically used when other antidepressants are not effective because of their side effects and extensive dietary restrictions. The chemical tyramine, found in a variety of foods, can interact with MAO inhibitors and cause a sharp and significant increase in blood pressure thereby increasing the risk of stroke. Individuals taking MAO inhibitors need to follow a diet that forbids certain foods and restricts many other foods.
Cheeses
Aged cheeses contain tyramine and should not be eaten by individuals taking MAO Inhibitors. The University of Pittsburgh lists several types of cheeses that should be avoided including Camembert, cheddar, Gouda, Gruyere, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, Roquefort and Stilton. Cheese-filled desserts and cheesecake are also not supposed to be eaten by individuals on MAO inhibitors, says the National Institutes of Health. Cheeses that are safe to eat are cottage cheese, cream cheese, ricotta and processed cheese.
Consumption of buttermilk, yogurts and sour cream should be limited, says the University of Pittsburgh. Those cheeses and dairy products that are allowed should be eaten within two to three weeks, according to the National Institutes of Health, to ensure they are fresh and not aging.
Alcoholic Drinks
Individuals on antidepressants should avoid drinking alcohol, but those on MAO inhibitors need to be especially aware of alcohol consumption. Alcoholic beverages that should be avoided by those on MAO inhibitors include beer, ale and wine, as well as nonalcoholic beer and red wines. White wine is allowed in minimal amounts, for example, two 8-oz. servings.
Meat, Fish and Poultry Products
Several kinds of meats and meat products contain tyramine and should not be eaten by individuals on MAO inhibitors. Meats to avoid include air-dried sausages like pepperoni, salami and pastrami; dried meats and extracts; and fermented or dry sausages, according to the National Institutes of Health and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Avoid eating fish that is pickled, dried or salted and chicken or beef liver. Fresh-packaged meat should be placed in a refrigerator or freezer immediately and should be consumed within three to four days.
Fermented Soy Products
Fermented soy products include foods like soy sauces, soybean paste, fermented tofu and bean curd and tempeh, a meat substitute. Other foods that fall into this category include miso soup, teriyaki sauce, shoyu and natto.
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