Proper nutrition is of great importance in addition to treatment in hypertension. Many foods we eat contain tyramine, which raises blood pressure. Tyramine is a natural byproduct of the amino acid tyrosine, which is found naturally in some foods. High amino acid levels in the blood are a risk factor for migraine headaches. There is also evidence that high levels of this amino acid can cause spikes in blood pressure. This substance is dangerous for some people.
ATTENTION TO THOSE TAKING THIS MEDICINE
Because monoamines block oxidants, some medications can cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure when combined with certain foods. For example, anyone taking an MAOI is advised to limit their intake of certain fruits and vegetables. MAOIs (monomania oxidase inhibitors) are a class of antidepressant drugs with similar efficacy to other antidepressants on the market.
SOME FOODS NEED TO BE AVOIDED
“MAOIs, while effective, have generally been replaced by newer antidepressants that are safer and cause fewer side effects,” explains the Mayo Clinic.
“Still, an MAOI is a good option for some people. In some cases, an MAOI relieves depression when other treatments have failed.” Anyone taking the drug can easily avoid complications as long as they avoid certain foods.
OVERCONSUMPTION OF CITRUS CAN BE RISKY
The most problematic ingredients are those containing the amino acid tyramine. This is because tyramine-rich foods interact with MAOIs and cause a hypertensive crisis. “Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes, and tangerines contain tyramine,” WebMD explains. Because these fruits contain small amounts of tyramine, consumption at low levels may still be safe.
ATTENTION TO TROPICAL FRUITS
“Tropical fruits have higher tyramine levels when ripe. Ripe bananas, pineapple and avocado should be avoided if you are particularly sensitive to tyramine”
PICKLES CONTAIN HIGH TYRAMINE
Sauerkraut, kimchi, pickled beetroot, pickled cucumbers, and pickled peppers all have high tyramine levels. Also, fermented soy products like tofu, miso, and soy sauce contain tyramine.”
REGULATES BLOOD PRESSURE
It should be noted that when taken alone, tyramine can help regulate blood pressure. Also, the amounts of tyramine in foods vary with different processing, storage, and preparation methods.