The result of certain substances (tyramine and other amines) releasing epinephrine (adrenaline) from nerves in the human body can lead to a variety of symptoms which can mimic allergy.  These sometimes frightening symptoms can include: hypertension, sweating, chest fullness, flushing, headache and palpitations.

A number of popular foods contain these amines: cheeses (the “riper the worser”), herring, sausage, bologna, salami, pepperoni, wine, sherry, banana, avocado, figs, chocolate and fava beans.