Posted by gardenergirl on April 20, 2007, at 10:47:43
In reply to Re: MAOI users - What in the heck do you eat??!! » esokev, posted by Jedi on April 20, 2007, at 2:40:01
I agree with Jedi, and Elizabeth's post is also very helpful. I relied on it when I first started Nardil. The diet is something to take seriously, and it's there because there are real physiological reactions with real adverse consequences. The restrictions developed as these reactions occurred. They are in place now not to limit the use of MAOI's, but rather to prevent hypertensive crises, a preventable occurrence if you have the information you need.
But even with the restrictions, there's plenty to eat. It does take paying more attention, especially when eating out or eating someone else's cooking. Pot lucks are especially difficult, and I often eat a snack beforehand so I don't have to go tracking everyone down to ask them what they brought and what's in it. Still, you learn to recognize generally safe foods. I admit, I do wish I could sample the "world's best macaroni and cheese" that someone brings to a party I go to every year. Everyone raves about it, and I can't have it. :(
About yeast extract...it's something used to bind spices and seasonings in processed food. I first avoided it altogether, but you're right, that limits a lot of processed foods. I eat things with it in it now, but only if it's one of the minor ingredients, as in towards the end of the list of ingredients on a package. (They are listed in order from highest amount to lowest amount). Yeast extract is highest in things like vegemite and marmite, so those are off-limits, which frankly, is not a problem for me.
It takes more effort, especially at first, but it's pretty routine for me now.
And to add to the OTC cold medicine thing...it's mainly meds with decongestants, especially pseudoephedrine. Most antihistamines are fine, so look for a package with that, but not a decongestant. If you do get a bad head cold or other sinus thing, there is a decongestant you can take: guaifensin (found in Robitussin and Mucinex).
Good luck.
Namaste
gg
poster:gardenergirl
thread:751410
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20070419/msgs/751566.html