Table of contents:
- What is tyramine?
- How can tyramine trigger migraines?
- Foods and drinks containing tyramine
- Tips for avoiding tyramine in food
Migraine attacks can occur at any time, even after eating. One side of the head will feel pain and then spread to the entire head. Yes, migraines are triggered by various things. Starting from stress, noise, glare, certain foods and drinks, to lack of sleep.
However, if migraines often recur after you eat, you could be sensitive to tyramine. Tiramine itself is a chemical that can trigger migraines. Come on, learn more about the following tyramine and migraines.
What is tyramine?
Tiramine is the amino acid tyrosine that can be found naturally in foods containing protein as well as in the human body. This substance began to be suspected of being a migraine trigger in the 1960s. Recent research in 2010 also corroborates the findings of these experts.
Therefore, a diet low in tyramine has emerged aimed at people with migraines or who are sensitive to this amino acid.
How can tyramine trigger migraines?
Researchers are still studying exactly how tyramine can trigger migraines. One of the most powerful reasons is that tyramine causes the release of various types of stress hormones into the blood. These hormones are dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
In an ideal situation, these three hormones are responsible for providing a boost of energy. However, it is dangerous if this hormone is released in excessive amounts and you are not under physical or psychological stress. The effects you feel include increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, migraines, headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
Foods and drinks containing tyramine
In your body, tyramine functions to help the body process protein. Therefore, this substance is usually found in foods rich in protein. Especially if the food has been stored for too long. The reason is, the levels of tyramine will continue to increase over time. Thus, foods that are fermented or left long enough must contain more tyramine.
Pay attention if the foods below trigger your migraines.
- Cheese
- Smoked milkfish
- Anchovy
- Salted fish
- Smoked meat
- Overripe fruit
- Fermented soybeans, for example tempeh, tofu and soy sauce
- Kimchi
- Pickles
- Asinan
Other foods that may contain moderate to low levels of tyramine include sausage, beef and fish balls, avocado, beer, and wine (fermented wine).. If not consumed in excess, migraine symptoms may not appear.
Tips for avoiding tyramine in food
Avoid packaged processed meat, smoked meat or fish, and dried fish. The best choice is always fresh meat and fish. Do not store meat or fish in the refrigerator for too long. For that, buy in small amounts.
Likewise with vegetables and fruits. Immediately consume no later than two days after you buy. Do not force yourself to eat or cook vegetables or fruit that appear wilted, crumpled, or dry. The reason is, cooking vegetables or fruit will not reduce tyramine levels at all.
