Amines in Food
You may be quick to blame things like gluten or dairy if you react to certain foods. But what if what you’re reacting to is something different? It could be because of amines in food.
What are amines in food?
Biogenic amines (amines in food) are naturally occurring chemicals that are caused by the bacteria that break down amino acids. They’re particularly high in foods that are overly ripe, over cooked, grilled/charred, processed, fermented or decomposing.
Some common amines found in foods include:
- Tyramine – high in aged and fermented foods, such as aged cheeses, and cured/smoked meats and fish.
- Histamine – watch out for fermented foods and beverages (like wine, beer and sauerkraut), cured meats and foods that contain vinegar.
- Phenylethylamine – found in chocolate, nuts and legumes, meat, seafood and poultry.
- Polyamines – high in wheat germ, rice bran, intestine, liver and some nuts.
How can you develop a amine sensitivity?
Amines in food are usually broken down by monoamine oxidase-A (MOA) enzymes found in the gut, intestine and liver. But, they can build up in the body if these enzymes are depleted, blocked or sluggish, sparking allergy symptoms.
Excess amines can induce effects similar to those of histamine such as the release of adrenaline, an increase in cardiac output as well as constriction of blood vessels in the head which is the mechanism responsible for amine-induced migraines in particular.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of amine sensitivity will vary from person to person – it depends on the amount you eat and your overall tolerance. Watch out for:
- Migraines and headaches
- Skin conditions, such as eczema and hives
- Sinus trouble
- Gastro intestinal disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Behavioural issues
Symptoms can appear up to 48 hours after consumption and many people find they only experience symptoms when they consume over their tolerance “threshold”. This can make flare-ups appear random, making it difficult to pinpoint a the trigger.
What to do?
You cannot remove amines in food by boiling or any other cooking method. So, how do you get on top of them?
- Keep a food diary– if you suspect sensitivity to amines, keep a log of what you eat and drink. Watch for a pattern of foods that may be sparking your symptoms.
- Try an elimination diet– a method of eliminating amines from your diet to see if it resolves your symptoms, but is not suitable for long-term management of symptoms. To obtain a full list of foods containing amines please send us an email on clinics@naturalallergytreatment.com.au
- Try our Natural Allergy Treatment – At Health & Wellness Australia & Auckland (HWA), our Naturopaths use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to help pinpoint the substances triggering your allergy symptoms. Following this, we perform a natural allergy treatment called Positive Association Technique (PAT), which aims to reduce your reactions and symptoms.
PAT is a non-invasive holistic therapy, which:
- draws on acupressure and kinesiology techniques
- aims to re-train your body
- may reduce your reactions to food (like amines) and environmental substances that may be causing or exacerbating your symptoms.
Some cases can be complex, so our Naturopaths may also recommend supplements and herbs, and provide lifestyle advice to help you achieve the best long-term results.
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Please note this blog contains general information only. Always consult your health care professional before making any diet or lifestyle changes.
