Around 45 million Americans suffer from chronic headaches every year. However, everyone has experienced pounding headaches at one time or another. Did you know that certain foods can trigger painful episodes?
Migraines can be debilitating and sometimes severe headaches that are often triggered by well-known triggers. You may need to stop eating certain foods if you have migraines. However, it is possible to spend less time in bed and avoid more severe headaches.
1. Foods with Naturally-Occurring Tannins
TanninsTannic acid is also known as water-soluble polyphenols. They are found in many plant foods. They are believed to be present in vegetables and fruits that are not yet ripe, and act as predator and parasite repellents.
It has been proven that Tannins can be found. Prevent hardening of the blood vesselsHowever, they can also trigger migraines. This is why patients should avoid them:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Wine, especially red
- Chocolate
- Cocoa powder
- Beer
- Beans
- Some fruits (grapes, apples, berries, pomegranates, persimmons)
- Tree nuts
- Some grains, such as barley and sorghum, are not suitable for consumption. [1]
One quick note on coffee: migraines can be triggered by other aspects of coffee, not just tannins. A little caffeine can help you Get rid You may experience migraines, but you should not have too much caffeine in your system. It can cause a terrible headache.
2. Foods high in Nitrates
High levels of nitrites or nitrates in foods “may be” Highly predictable migraine triggers In some people.”
Cold cuts, hot dogs and bacon are all cured and smoked meats. High levels of nitrates. Drinking water, both municipal and well-water, can also contain nitrates. You may also find nitrates in canned beans, vegetables, and packaged seafood. [2]
It is important to remember that nitrates can be added to processed foods and can cause nitrosamines to form in the body. This can increase your risk of developing cancer.
Read: 7 Natural Remedies to Treat Migraines
3. Foods containing sulfites
For centuries, sulfites were used to prevent food from turning brown. They can also be used to prevent brown discoloration of foods. Antibacterial agents In the wine industry and in the fermentation industry. Sulfites are a major ingredient in dried fruits. With the exception of raisins or prunes. [3]
High amounts of sulfites in foods can cause migraines.
- Dry fruits (except prunes and raisins).
- Lime and lemon juice
- Wine
- Molasses
- Sauerkraut (and all pickled food)
- Grape juice
4. Foods Containing Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
MSG is generally recognized as safe by the FDA (GRAS). However, many people are sensitive to it. One of many studies published in The Journal of Headache Pain It is revealed that Only one dose Monosodium glutamate, (MSG), can cause headaches in healthy subjects.
Double blinded, placebo-controlled research was used to conduct the study. It found that MSG intake can cause spontaneous pain, headaches and jaw aches. Unwanted side effects This includes nausea, fatigue and stomach ache.
Avoid MSG if you are trying to avoid it
- Fast food
- Noodles in packages
- Cold cuts
- Sausage
- Some salad dressings
- Other products available
It is best to read the ingredients label before you eat. With the names:
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Glutamic Acid
- Glutamate
- Monopotassium Glutamate
- Calcium Glutamate
- Monoammonium Glutamate
- Magnesium Glutamate
- Natrium Glutamate
- Yeast Extract
- Hydrolyzed anything
- Any hydrolyzed protein
- Calcium Caseinate
- Sodium Caseinate
- Yeast Food
- Yeast Nutrient
- Autolyzed yeast
- Gelatin
- Textured Protein
- Vetsin
- Ajinomoto
Related: Home Remedies to Headaches
5. Tyramine-Containing Foods
Aged cheeses like blue, cheddar, and Swiss are all examples of foods containing tyamines. The blood vessels can be affected by tyamines, which may cause migraines. The National Headache Foundation recommends that people eat primarily American cheese or processed cheese. If They can get headaches from aged cheese
Tyramine is also found in wine.
Additional sources:
[1] Buzzle
[2] Healthy Child
[3] HealthCentral