The link between Tyramine and Migraines

BlogsThe link between Tyramine and Migraines

In some people certain foods and beverages can trigger a migraine. One well-known migraine trigger is Tyramine.

Tyramine is a substance found naturally in many foods, particularly in aged and fermented foods. Such foods include, among others:

• Aged cheese
• Aged chicken liver
• Pickled and smoked seafood
• Canned soups
• Cured meats
• Beer (on tap and certain other types)
• Some red wines (such as Chianti)

The concentration of Tyramine in the foods will increase exponentially due to extended or improper storage of the food.

Discovery of a Link Between Tyramine and Headaches

Scientists have long known that Tyramine is harmful to people's health in some cases. The discovery of the Migraine triggering effect of Tyramine dates back to the 1940s. Tyramine is biogenic amine compound derived from amino acid Tyrosine. In the human body Tyramine releases catecholamines epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine. Ingestion of Tyramine-rich foods, coupled with reduced activity of an enzyme responsible for breaking it down - Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) - can trigger vasoactive response leading to migraines, cluster headaches and even hypertensive crisis. In some individuals this enzyme is not produced in sufficient quantities due to either an organic condition or effect of medications known as Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors. These drugs, used to treat depression, have been on the market for over half a century, and are directly linked to headaches in some people. Foods rich in Tyramine are specifically contraindicated for individuals on MAO therapy.

In a 2010 study, headache researchers interviewed 200 people with migraines regarding factors that triggered their headaches. 18% reported that their diet was a triggering factor. The specific foods that came up most often included cheese and hot dogs.

Another study from the same year included 126 people who had migraine with an "aura." It also found that cheese triggered migraines in some individuals.

Certain other factors contributing to high levels of Tyramine in the blood stream include smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, and elevated estrogen among others.

How to Check if Tyramine is Your Migraine Trigger

Keeping a diary of your headaches for several months can help you and your doctor determine whether Tyramine or another trigger (food related or not) may be linked to your migraines. Document the time and date that a migraine begins. Then answer these questions:

• How exactly does the migraine feel?
• If you're a woman, where does the migraine episode fall in your menstrual cycle?
• What have you eaten recently?
• Have you been exposed to other common headache triggers, such as a change in altitude, change in temperature, strong smells, bright lights, loud noises, changes in sleep habits, or unusual stress? 

It's worth keeping in mind that headaches may not begin for 24 hours or later after you eat certain trigger foods. As a result, including the foods you've eaten during the past day or two may help you learn if Tyramine could be a trigger for your migraines.