When advising a patient on diet therapy while on a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which food should be avoided?

When a patient is taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), it is crucial to avoid foods that are high in tyramine. Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound that can lead to hypertensive crises in individuals taking MAOIs, as these medications inhibit the breakdown of tyramine.

Cheddar and Swiss cheese are known to contain high levels of tyramine, particularly as they age, which can make them particularly risky for patients on MAOIs. Consuming these cheeses can lead to dangerous increases in blood pressure, which is why they are specifically advised against in dietary counseling for individuals on this class of medication.

In contrast, eggs, most fruits, and lean meats do not pose the same level of risk related to tyramine and are generally considered safe when consumed while on MAOIs. Thus, the focus on avoiding cheddar and Swiss cheese is based on the critical aspect of managing dietary interactions to ensure the safety and health of patients undergoing treatment with MAOIs.