Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Tyramine?

Heather Phillips
Heather Phillips

Tyramine is a naturally-occurring compound often present in many plants and animals. It can also form from tyrosine — an amino acid found in a variety of foods — when those foods are fermented, or start to decay. It is known as an amine because of its molecular structure, which contains nitrogen, and is derived from ammonia.

In humans, this compound, also known as 4-Hydroxyphenethylamine, acts to release catecholamines — or the ‘fight or flight’ hormones — made by the adrenal glands into the bloodstream. Some of the substances that can be released include dopamine, norepinephrine — also known as noradrenaline — and epinephrine. When these hormones are in the bloodstream, systolic blood pressure and heart rate can rise.

Tyramine is sometimes thought to create migranes in some people.
Tyramine is sometimes thought to create migranes in some people.

This rise in blood pressure can often be dangerous for people who take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Since the enzyme monoamine oxidase is the mechanism the human body typically uses to rid itself of excessive amounts of tyramine, if MAOIs are taken, tyramine levels may build up, leading to increased risk of a stroke. This is why many people taking MAOIs are advised to avoid foods containing tyramine.

Fava beans are high in tyramine.
Fava beans are high in tyramine.

Tyramine is also thought to have a possible causal connection to migraines in some people. Scientific studies, however, have provided mixed results. Supposedly, since it affects the vascular system through the release of catecholamines, it is thought to indirectly cause a constriction of blood vessels in the head. Then, as the effect wears off, the blood vessels dilate, which can potentially lead to a migraine occurring in individuals prone to them. Sometimes, if a migraine sufferer avoids foods containing tyramine, he or she may experience them less frequently.

Parmesan cheese contains tyramine.
Parmesan cheese contains tyramine.

Some of the foods that contain this compound include fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, soy sauce, and red wine. Others are aged foods, including hard cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, and asiago, and cured meats, such as salami and some sausages. Additional foods high in tyramine include avocados, chocolate, fava beans, and pineapple, among others.

Pineapple is high in tyramine.
Pineapple is high in tyramine.

If a person is repeatedly exposed to it over a prolonged amount of time, tyramine can be converted to octopamine. This can occupy the same storage spaces in the human body, known as synaptic vesicles, that some of the catecholines do before they are used. It is thought that since octopamine somewhat replaces the fight or flight hormones, where they are usually stored, it may be responsible for a lowering of blood pressure, and possibly lead to a condition called orthostatic hypotension. This is sometimes seen in people taking MAOIs. More research needs to be done, however, to understand the role of octopamine in the human body.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Tyramine is sometimes thought to create migranes in some people.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Tyramine is sometimes thought to create migranes in some people.
    • Fava beans are high in tyramine.
      Fava beans are high in tyramine.
    • Parmesan cheese contains tyramine.
      By: Elenathewise
      Parmesan cheese contains tyramine.
    • Pineapple is high in tyramine.
      By: Malyshchyts Viktar
      Pineapple is high in tyramine.
    • Tyramine is found in salami and other cured meats.
      By: Mara Zemgaliete
      Tyramine is found in salami and other cured meats.
    • Foods with tyramine include sauerkraut.
      By: Dani Vincek
      Foods with tyramine include sauerkraut.
    • Avocados are a good source of tyramine.
      By: oriori
      Avocados are a good source of tyramine.