Tyramine is a byproduct of the breakdown of the amino acid tyrosine. It is commonly found in aged foods and may cause adverse reactions in some people. One effect may be the triggering of a migraine. It may also trigger other negative effects in those who are sensitive to it or are taking certain medications. If you get migraines, it may help you to avoid certain foods. Talk to your doctor about your medicines, medical conditions and any food triggers that you may have.
About Migraines
Migraines are a particular type of headache characterized by sensitivity to light or sound, visual disturbances, nausea and a severe throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. According to the National Headache Foundation, migraines may affect nearly 30 million people and are three times more common in women. Some migraine sufferers experience a prodromal or warning phase, before the headache strikes. The headaches may be caused by a localized constriction of blood flow to certain areas of the brain, causing changes in signals sent to brain tissue and pain receptors. Headaches can often last for days and may be triggered by a variety of physiological and environmental causes including hormonal changes, stress, exposure to light and exposure to certain foods, including those containing tyramine.
About Tyramine
Tyramine is not actually an amino acid. It is a chemical that is produced from foods containing the amino acid tyrosine when the food is aged. It temporarily acts in a similar fashion to some neurotransmitters, such as epinephrine and dopamine. It is normally broken down or metabolized by an enzyme known as monoamine oxidase into harmless components but may result in a "tyramine reaction" in those who are unable to metabolize it. It may also trigger a migraine headache in those who are sensitive.
Foods to Avoid
Foods that are high in tyramine include many aged and fermented products. Fresh dairy products and meats are OK, but aged cheeses, processed meats such as deli meats and certain alcoholic beverages are commonly known to contain high levels of tyramine. Raw onions and many citrus fruits may also contain levels of tyramine that are too high for those who are sensitive. Chocolate and caffeinated beverages may also cause similar difficulties, particularly in the case of migraine headaches.
Other Tyramine Concerns
A certain class of anti-depressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, including medications such as selegiline and phenylzine, are given to prevent the breakdown of neurotransmitters in the brain such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine which leads to the elevation of mood. Certain herbs such as ginseng, resveratrol and licorice may also have some MOI activity. MOIs also prevent the breakdown of tyramine and can cause a condition known as a tyramine reaction. A tyramine reaction has symptoms such as elevated blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, headache, vomiting and may become severe resulting in a medical crisis. Talk to your doctor about all medical conditions you have and any medications, including herbs, you are taking.
