For patients on MAOIs, which food is safe to ingest?

Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) must be cautious about dietary restrictions due to the potential for serious interactions with certain foods. MAOIs inhibit the breakdown of monoamines, including tyramine, which can lead to hypertensive crises when high-tyramine foods are consumed.

Eggs are considered safe for patients on MAOIs because they are low in tyramine and do not pose a risk of inducing hypertensive reactions. They provide essential nutrients without the adverse effects associated with other high-tyramine foods such as certain kinds of cheese, red wine, and smoked meats.

In contrast, red wine and aged cheeses contain elevated levels of tyramine, which can precipitate dangerous increases in blood pressure in patients who are taking MAOIs. Smoked meats also fall into the category of foods that are typically high in tyramine due to the preservation and aging processes involved in their preparation. Thus, eggs are the safest option for individuals on MAOIs, allowing them to maintain their dietary needs without risking their health.