Can you eat yogurt while taking an MAOI?

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

Over 10% of adults aged 18 and over take an antidepressant medication, including MAOIs, which require careful dietary management. The question of whether yogurt can be consumed while taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) often arises due to tyramine presence. Most commercially prepared, pasteurized yogurt is considered safe for consumption, although many fermented foods are restricted.

Quick Summary

This article explains MAOI dietary restrictions and the importance of avoiding high-tyramine foods. The guide clarifies the safety of yogurt and other dairy products. Discover how to safely incorporate low-tyramine foods into your diet while on MAOI medication.

Key Points

Commercially Prepared Yogurt is Generally Safe: Pasteurized, commercially produced yogurt is low in tyramine and considered safe for MAOI users.
Avoid Aged and Fermented Dairy: Cheeses like aged cheddar, Swiss, and brie, as well as products like kefir, are high in tyramine and must be avoided.
Freshness is Key: Tyramine levels increase as food ages. Prioritize fresh, correctly stored products and be cautious with leftovers.
Monitor Your Body's Reaction: Pay attention to any adverse effects after eating. Symptoms of a hypertensive crisis require immediate medical attention.
Consult Healthcare Professionals: Always work with a doctor or dietitian to confirm safe dietary choices tailored to your specific medication.
Limit Portion Sizes: Even with safe foods like yogurt, moderation is a sensible approach.
Be Mindful of Other Tyramine Sources: Remember that other aged and fermented foods and drinks, like cured meats and certain alcohols, are also prohibited.

Understanding MAOIs and Tyramine

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a class of antidepressants that block the monoamine oxidase enzyme in the body. This enzyme typically breaks down excess tyramine, an amino acid found in many foods. When this enzyme is inhibited, tyramine can build up to dangerous levels in the body, which can lead to a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure, known as a hypertensive crisis. Symptoms of a hypertensive crisis can include a severe headache, nausea, rapid heart rate, and chest pain, and in rare cases, it can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke. This risk is why strict dietary guidelines are necessary for those taking MAOIs.

Tyramine levels vary greatly between different foods and are generally higher in products that are aged, fermented, or pickled. The production method and freshness of food are the most critical factors. For example, aged cheeses, cured meats, and certain fermented sauces contain high levels of tyramine and must be avoided.

The Status of Yogurt and Dairy

When considering dairy products, the key distinction is between fresh, pasteurized options and aged or fermented products. Commercially produced, pasteurized yogurt is fermented, but its tyramine content is typically very low and is generally considered safe for most people on MAOIs. However, homemade or improperly stored yogurt can have higher tyramine levels. Similarly, fresh dairy products like milk, cottage cheese, and ricotta cheese are safe. The risk primarily comes from aged cheeses and other heavily fermented dairy.

Guidelines for Consuming Yogurt on an MAOI Diet:

Stick to Commercial, Pasteurized Products: These are made under controlled conditions that minimize tyramine development.
Prioritize Freshness: Always check the expiration date and avoid any product that appears spoiled or has been sitting for too long.
Choose Plain over Flavored: While most flavored yogurts are fine, plain yogurt eliminates any potential tyramine increase from added fermented ingredients.
Limit Portions: Even with safe foods, moderation is wise. Some guidelines suggest limiting yogurt to less than half a cup daily.
Monitor for Symptoms: Pay attention to how your body reacts. If any symptoms of a hypertensive crisis occur, stop eating it immediately and contact a healthcare provider.

Comparison of Dairy Products for MAOI Users


Dairy Product	Tyramine Level	Safety on MAOI	Reason
Commercial Pasteurized Yogurt	Low	Generally safe	Made under controlled conditions; low tyramine content.
Homemade/Old Yogurt	Potentially higher	Use with caution or avoid	Unregulated fermentation can increase tyramine.
Aged Cheeses (Cheddar, Parmesan)	High	Avoid	Tyramine levels increase significantly with aging and fermentation.
Fresh Cheeses (Cottage, Ricotta)	Low	Safe	Non-fermented or minimally processed.
Milk	Very Low	Safe	Non-fermented and fresh.
Kefir	Potentially higher	Avoid or limit	A more intensely fermented milk product.
Sour Cream	Moderate	Limit	Fermented and can develop tyramine over time.

Safely Navigating a Low-Tyramine Diet

Following an MAOI diet goes beyond just yogurt. It involves a comprehensive approach to food selection and preparation. The fundamental rule is to consume only fresh, properly stored foods and avoid all aged, fermented, cured, and pickled items. Even leftovers can become risky if stored for too long.

For meat and fish, only fresh or frozen options are permitted. Cured, smoked, and fermented meats like salami, pepperoni, and hot dogs must be completely avoided. The same rule applies to condiments: soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and other fermented sauces are high in tyramine.

In addition to food, certain beverages also contain tyramine. Draft beers, red wines, and sherry are typically high, while some commercial bottled beers may be safer in moderation. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider regarding alcohol consumption.

Practical Tips for the MAOI Diet

Read Labels Diligently: Tyramine can hide in unexpected places. Always check ingredient lists for fermented products like soy sauce, yeast extract, or aged cheese.
Cook Fresh, Eat Fresh: Prepare food from scratch using fresh ingredients whenever possible. Eat leftovers within 24-48 hours and store them in the refrigerator properly.
Be Cautious When Dining Out: It can be difficult to know how restaurant food has been prepared or stored. When in doubt, choose simple, fresh dishes and ask questions.
Consult a Professional: Always work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to create a safe and balanced diet plan. They can provide personalized advice based on your medication and health status.

Conclusion

While strict, the MAOI diet is a necessary precaution to prevent dangerous health complications like a hypertensive crisis. The good news is that most commercially prepared, pasteurized yogurt is safe to consume in moderation due to its low tyramine content. The key is to prioritize freshness, read labels, and avoid aged, fermented, and cured foods. Always consult with a healthcare provider to confirm your dietary plan and ensure your safety. By following these guidelines, you can manage your medication effectively while still enjoying a varied and safe diet.

Authoritative Sources

MAOIs and diet: Is it necessary to restrict tyramine? by the Mayo Clinic
What Foods Should I Avoid If I'm Taking an MAOI? by GoodRx
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) by StatPearls at NCBI

Frequently Asked Questions

MAOIs prevent the breakdown of tyramine in your body. When you consume foods high in tyramine, it can build up to dangerous levels and cause a sudden spike in blood pressure, known as a hypertensive crisis.

No. While commercially prepared, pasteurized yogurt is generally safe, homemade or improperly stored yogurt could have higher tyramine levels due to uncontrolled fermentation. It's best to stick to commercial, store-bought products.

You should completely avoid aged and mature cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, and parmesan, as well as fermented products like kefir and aged feta.

You must follow the low-tyramine diet while taking the MAOI medication and for at least two to four weeks after discontinuing it, as the enzyme inhibition persists.

Yes, many foods must be avoided, including cured and aged meats (salami, pepperoni), certain fermented soy products (soy sauce, miso), pickled foods (sauerkraut), and some alcoholic beverages (draft beer, red wine).

Symptoms can include a severe headache, nausea, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and confusion. If you experience these, seek immediate medical help.

No, fermented foods like kimchi and kombucha contain high levels of tyramine and must be avoided when taking an MAOI due to the risk of a dangerous blood pressure spike.