Warning: these foods can trigger migraines,,

 

Believe it or not, several factors can trigger migraines, including what we eat and drink. While there is no universal trigger, some people have learned over time that certain foods and drinks trigger migraine attacks. Additionally, certain additives, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives can cause headaches in some migraine sufferers. However, it's difficult to prove this information, as everyone reacts differently to the consumption of a product. However, there are common triggers that can cause or contribute to the onset of migraine attacks in some individuals.

Mature cheeses

Matured cheeses, such as Camembert, Gorgonzola, and cheddar, contain a substance called tyramine. It is formed by decomposition, which leads to the breakdown of proteins.

Aged Cheeses

The longer the cheese has been aged, the higher the tyramine level. This molecule is known to cause migraines in some people.

Pickled and Fermented Foods

Like aged cheeses, pickled and fermented foods can contain high levels of tyramine.These foods include pickles, kimchi, and kombucha.

Smoked or Processed Meats

Smoked or processed meats such as ham or sausages can trigger a migraine. These foods contain nitrates, which are used to preserve a product's color and flavor.

Smoked or processed meats

These foods can release nitric oxide into the blood, which dilates blood vessels in the brain and thus triggers a migraine.

Citrus Fruits

Foods that contain high levels of citric acid, such as oranges and other citrus fruits, may be linked to migraines.

However, a 2016 study clarified this claim. Citrus fruits can potentially trigger migraines with aura, but not migraines without aura. Migraines with aura involve visual disturbances, such as seeing flashing lights.

Foods that contain MSG

MSG is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, which occurs naturally in our bodies and in many foods and additives.

Although its consumption is considered safe, some scientists have claimed that it can trigger migraine attacks. In fact, the American Migraine Foundation has stated that MSG can trigger severe migraine attacks in 10 to 15% of people who suffer from this type of headache.

Alcohol

According to a 2018 survey published in the European Journal of Neurology, alcoholic beverages trigger migraines in 35.6% of respondents.

Red wine, in particular, was reported as a trigger in over 77% of participants who indicated that alcohol caused their migraines.

Caffeine

Excessive caffeine consumption has been associated with migraines for many years. But for some people, coffee cures their migraines.

A 2021 study published in the journal Nutrients found that excessive caffeine consumption caused migraine attacks, as did suddenly stopping caffeine.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains both caffeine and 2-phenylethylamine, which causes migraines in some people.

Artificial Sweeteners

Most processed foods contain artificial sweeteners, an alternative to sugar used to sweeten foods and beverages.

But these sweeteners can cause migraine attacks, especially aspartame, an artificial sweetener.

Nuts

According to the Association of Migraine Disorders, nuts, including peanut butter and seeds, trigger migraines due to their phenylalanine content.

Phenylalanine is an amino acid that may impact vascular tone and therefore play a role in triggering migraines.

Frozen Foods

Consuming frozen foods, such as ice cream or slushies, can cause severe headaches.

You're more likely to experience headaches that turn into migraine attacks if you consume cold foods quickly, after exercise, or if you become overheated.

Salty foods

Processed salty foods, which may contain harmful preservatives, can trigger migraines in some people.

High sodium consumption can increase blood pressure and therefore cause headaches or migraines.

Identify the culprit

There are several techniques to identify what triggers your migraines.

Keep a journal

Keep a journal in which you record all the foods and drinks you consume over several weeks, as well as your migraine attacks.

Pay attention to what you eat

When you have a migraine, check what you've eaten in the last 24 hours to try to pinpoint the culprit.

These foods can trigger migraines

If you suffer from migraines, it may be wise to limit your consumption of these foods and drinks.

Avoid triggering a migraine

If you suspect a food or drink is triggering your migraines, avoid it for four weeks to see how your body reacts.

Monitor your symptoms

Monitor your symptoms and the onset of your migraines. If nothing changes, it's unlikely that a food or drink is triggering your migraines.