It is critically important NOT to completely avoid salt or electrolytes during your dieta, especially if you are also restricting other foods or engaging in activities that lead to fluid loss. While traditional diets often emphasize blandness, avoiding all sodium can lead to a dangerous condition called hyponatremia (low blood sodium). Symptoms of hyponatremia can range from nausea, headache, confusion, and fatigue to severe neurological dysfunction, seizures, coma, and even death.

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Your body needs a healthy balance of electrolytes, including sodium, to function correctly. Do not intentionally restrict your salt intake to an extreme degree. Instead, focus on consuming natural, unrefined sources of salt in moderation, such as a pinch of sea salt or Himalayan pink salt in your food or water. Listen to your body's needs for hydration and electrolytes. If you are sweating or feeling dehydrated, ensure you are replenishing fluids and electrolytes.

This is perhaps the most critical dietary restriction due to the presence of MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) in Ayahuasca. Combining MAOIs with foods high in tyramine can lead to a dangerous condition known as a hypertensive crisis. This is a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure that can result in symptoms such as:

• Severe headache

• Chest pain

• Blurred vision

• Shortness of breath

• Numbness or weakness

• Confusion

• Seizures

A hypertensive crisis is a medical emergency and can lead to stroke, heart attack, or other life-threatening complications.

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Therefore, it is imperative to strictly avoid ALL foods high in tyramine for at least 72 hours (3 days) before your ceremony, and ideally for a few days after. Some facilitators recommend a longer period, up to 1-2 weeks. When in doubt, avoid it.

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Common Foods HIGH in Tyramine to ABSOLUTELY AVOID:

• Aged, Fermented, Cured, or Smoked Meats/Fish: Salami, pepperoni, cured ham, bacon, hot dogs, sausage, aged jerky, smoked fish (e.g., smoked salmon), dried fish.

• Aged Cheeses: Cheddar, Parmesan, Swiss, blue cheese, mozzarella, Feta, processed cheese. Fresh cottage cheese or ricotta are generally okay, but best avoided to be safe.

• Fermented Products: Soy sauce, miso, tempeh, tofu (especially aged), sauerkraut, kimchi, pickling brine.

• Certain Fruits: Overripe fruits (especially bananas, avocados), dried fruits (raisins, prunes, dates).

• Certain Vegetables: Fava beans (broad beans), snow peas.

• Yeast Extracts: Marmite, Vegemite, brewer's yeast.

• Alcoholic Beverages: All types of alcohol, including beer, wine (especially red wine), and spirits.

• Caffeine: Coffee, tea, energy drinks (already advised to avoid for other reasons, but also relevant for tyramine).

• Certain Condiments: Some salad dressings, gravies.

• Chocolate: High concentrations of tyramine are found in chocolate.

 

Other Foods and Substances to AVOID:

• Processed Foods: Anything artificial, processed, or containing chemical additives, preservatives, or excessive sugar.

• Red Meat & Pork: Avoid beef, lamb, pork, and other heavy red meats.

• Fermented Foods: Avoid aged cheeses, yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, soy sauce, miso, tempeh, and fermented beverages.

• Alcohol: Absolutely no alcohol.

• Caffeine: Avoid coffee, black tea, green tea, and energy drinks.

• Spicy Foods: Avoid chili peppers, hot sauces, and strong spices.

• Excessive Sugar: Limit refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, and sugary drinks. Natural sugars from fruit in moderation are generally acceptable.

• Dairy Products: Avoid milk, cheese, butter, and other dairy.

• Fried Foods & Excessive Oils: Limit fatty and oily foods. Use minimal, light cooking oils (e.g., coconut oil in moderation).

• Sexual Activity: Traditionally, sexual activity (including masturbation) is avoided during the dieta to conserve vital energy.

• Recreational Drugs & Pharmaceuticals: Avoid all recreational drugs. Consult with your medical doctor and Ayahuasca facilitator about any prescription medications you are taking, as some can have dangerous interactions with Ayahuasca (e.g., SSRIs, MAOIs, certain stimulants, blood pressure medications). Never discontinue prescribed medication without medical supervision.

 

If you are unsure about a food item, it is safest to avoid it.

• Lean Protein: Fresh fish (especially white fish like cod, tilapia, or snapper), chicken (skinless, boneless), or plant-based proteins like lentils and beans (well-cooked and unspiced).

• Fresh Fruits: Non-acidic fruits like bananas, apples, pears, melons.

• Fresh Vegetables: Steamed or lightly cooked vegetables like squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy greens.

• Whole Grains: Plain rice (white or brown), oats (plain, unsweetened).

• Water: Drink plenty of clean, filtered water throughout the day.

• Herbal Teas: Non-caffeinated herbal teas.

• Natural Salt: Use a small amount of unrefined sea salt or Himalayan pink salt to season your food. Do not avoid salt completely.

 

Important Considerations:

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• Hydration: Maintain good hydration with water.

• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms, adjust your diet accordingly.

• Consult Your Facilitator: Always discuss your diet plans and any health concerns with your Ayahuasca facilitator. They may have specific recommendations based on their tradition or the particular Ayahuasca brew being used.

• Medical Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any health conditions, are on medication, or have concerns about your diet, especially regarding electrolyte balance, consult with a qualified healthcare professional (e.g., your doctor) before starting any restrictive diet or consuming Ayahuasca.

 

By adhering to a thoughtful and balanced dieta, you can enhance your Ayahuasca experience and support your well-being throughout your journey.