7 foods and drinks that can trigger migraines

Drinking alcohol, coffee, consuming processed meats, and foods high in MSG can trigger migraines.

Migraine is a condition characterized by sudden, severe headaches on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and noise. Below are some foods that can trigger this condition.

Ale

According to the American Migraine Foundation, alcoholic beverages can act as triggers for migraines. Certain substances in alcoholic drinks, such as histamine, tyramine, and sulfites, are linked to pain. Drinking alcohol triggers migraines because it dilates blood vessels.

Caffeine

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health , caffeine in coffee, tea, and soft drinks may be the culprit. Fluctuations in caffeine levels affect blood vessel dilation, leading to headaches in some people.

Chocolate

A 2020 review by Stanford University and several other institutions, based on 43 studies involving over 39,000 people, showed that chocolate consumption is a contributing factor to migraines. This is due to the presence of beta-phenylethylamine, an organic compound in chocolate that stimulates the central nervous system and brain.

Cheese

The Stanford University review also indicated that aged cheese contains the amino acid tyramine, which is a contributing factor. Tyramine is a naturally occurring amino acid in the body that helps regulate blood pressure.

Processed meat

According to a 2020 assessment by Stanford University, nitrates used to preserve processed meats such as sausages, cold cuts, bacon, and pâté are also a cause of migraines. Additionally, some processed meats contain tyramine, which is another contributing factor.

Foods containing MSG

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, many people are prone to migraines due to the consumption of MSG – a common additive found in many foods. For example, some foods containing MSG include fast food, canned soups, potato chips or other snacks, instant noodles, frozen foods, etc.

Fermented foods

Fermented dairy products such as yogurt and cultured milk, fermented and pickled foods can also sometimes cause headaches or migraines in consumers. Some people may experience migraines after eating peanuts and nuts, yeast and certain types of bread, organ meats, and fruits such as kiwi, citrus fruits, bananas, and raspberries.

To avoid migraines, people should eat on time and regularly, perhaps dividing their meals into about five small portions a day, combining carbohydrates with protein to maintain a feeling of fullness, prioritizing fresh foods, vegetables, and lean protein. Avoid processed and packaged foods, reduce salt intake, drink enough water, and limit sugary drinks. Carefully reading the ingredients on packaging can also help reduce the likelihood of headaches.

People experiencing severe headaches, difficulty speaking, impaired coordination, or visual disturbances, along with pain that comes on quickly and causes loss of balance, should see a doctor.

If your headaches are getting worse, medication isn't controlling them, you need to take painkillers three or more times a week, or if your headaches worsen when leaning over or lying down, you should see a doctor.

Mai Cat (According to Very Well Health )

Readers can ask questions about neurological disorders here for doctors to answer.

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