Learn More About ‘What Are The Foods The 10 Foods That Cause Migraine?’ What we eat and drink can cause a migraine episode, among other factors.
The Migraine Research Foundation claims that certain foods may only cause migraines when consumed in combination with other factors. However, the highly individualized nature of this combination — and any trigger in general — makes research challenging.
What Are The Foods The 10 Foods That Cause Migraine?
What we eat and drink can cause a migraine episode, among other factors.
The Migraine Research Foundation claims that certain foods may only cause migraines when consumed in combination with other factors. However, the extremely personalized nature of this combination — and any trigger in general — makes study challenging.
There isn’t a single factor that always causes migraines. However, some people may be susceptible to migraine attacks due to certain common triggers.
Caffeine
Migraines or headaches can be brought on by consuming too much caffeine or going through caffeine withdrawal.
However, the American Migraine Foundation asserts that caffeine can actually prevent impending migraine attacks. With occasional use, it can also relieve headaches.
Caffeine-containing foods and beverages include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Chocolate
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners are found in a lot of processed foods. These are sugar substitutes that are used to sweeten foods and beverages.
But these sweeteners may give you a headache.
Particularly aspartame is thought to cause migraine attacks.
Alcohol
One of the most popular substances considered to cause migraines is alcohol. Over 35% of migraine sufferers in one studyTrusted Source stated that alcohol was one of their frequent triggers.
Over 77% of the participants who admitted to drinking as a trigger mentioned red wine specifically.
Dehydration, which is a significant factor in headache development, can be brought on by alcohol.
Chocolate
The American Migraine Foundation states that after alcohol, chocolate is thought to be the second most typical trigger for migraine attacks. They claim that approximately 22% of migraine sufferers are impacted.
Both caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine, which are both found in chocolate, have been known to cause headaches in some people.
Foods Containing MSG
The sodium salt of glutamic acid, which is present in our bodies naturally, is called monosodium glutamate (MSG).
MSG is a food additive that may be found in a variety of foods. Although some researchers link it to migraine attacks, it is generally regarded as safe to eat.
According to the American Migraine Foundation, 10 to 15% of migraine sufferers may experience severe migraine attacks as a result. Some people may also be triggered by other preservatives.
Cured Meats
The color and flavor of cured meats like deli meats, ham, hot dogs, and sausages are preserved by a substance called nitrate. These meals have the ability to cause the blood to produce nitric oxide, which is considered to widen blood vessels in the brain.
Aged Cheeses
Tyramine is a compound found in aged cheeses. It develops when the breakdown of proteins occurs as a result of food aging.
The amount of tyramine in cheese increases with aging time.
Another chemical that has been linked to headache and migraine triggers is tyramine. Typical cheeses with high tyramine content include:
- Feta
- Blue Cheese
- Parmesan
Pickled And Fermented Foods
Pickled and fermented foods, like aged cheeses, can have a lot of tyramine in them. These foods consist of:
- Pickles
- Kimchi
- Kombucha (which can also have alcoholic content)
- Pickled okra
- Pickled jalapeños
Frozen Foods
Eaten frozen foods and beverages, such as ice cream or slushies, can cause severe, stabbing headaches.
The three situations where you’re most likely to get headaches that turn into migraine attacks are eating cold food quickly, right after working out, or when you’re overheated.
Salty Foods
Some people may develop migraines as a result of eating salty foods, particularly processed salty foods that may contain harmful preservatives.
High sodium intake can raise blood pressure, which can lead to headaches or migraines.
