Sunday, October 5, 2008

Migraine Trigger Tyramine

Aged cheeses like cheddar and other tyramine containing foods are often listed as triggers for migraine headaches. How does this work?

An enzyme called MAO (mono amine oxidase) is a balancer for excess amine neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters are message carriers on nerve pathways. Once the message is sent they need to be cleaned up or destroyed. This is the job of MAO; however, a delicate balance and equilibrium of biochemistry is needed.

Unfortunately MAO destroys serotonin, the neurotransmitter hormone...which leads to depression. A second problem is related to the regulation of proper levels of the neurotransmitter tyramine.

Too much tryamine raises blood pressure and aged cheeses or foods containing tyrosine, exacerbate and increase blood pressure and hence headaches. The tyramine containing foods push blood pressure over the threshold level and result in a migraine or vascular headache.
Denis Van Loan DDS

For more complete information visit my website at: http://www.migraineheadache-relief.com