Migraines are headaches that can be debilitating and disrupt life as usual. While there are different triggers for migraines ranging from stress to hormonal imbalance, certain foods and drinks have been found to be common triggers for migraines.
If you suffer from migraines, it’s important to know these foods and drinks that may trigger them so that you can manage and avoid them as much as possible. Here are 30 foods and drinks that may trigger migraines:.
1. Fermented and pickled foods
Foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles and olives may contain tyramine, an amino acid that has been linked to migraines. Tyramine is formed when proteins break down, so it is often found in aged and fermented foods.
2. Aged cheese
Cheeses like blue cheese, cheddar, mozzarella and Parmesan may contain tyramine, making them possible triggers for migraines.
3. Chocolate
Chocolate contains a compound called phenylethylamine, which can cause blood vessels in the brain to dilate, leading to migraines.
4. Caffeine
Caffeine can help relieve headaches, but it can also trigger migraines in some people. It’s important to monitor your caffeine intake if you suffer from migraines.
5. Alcohol
Wine, beer, and spirits contain compounds like histamine and tyramine that can trigger migraines. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, which can be a trigger for migraines.
6. Processed meats
Processed meats like sausage, salami, and bacon contain nitrates and nitrites, which can dilate blood vessels and lead to migraines.
7. Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
MSG is a flavor enhancer that is often added to processed foods like chips, soups, and fast food. MSG has been linked to migraines in some people.
8. Nuts and seeds
Nuts like almonds, peanuts, walnuts, and sesame seeds contain tyramine, making them possible triggers for migraines.
9. Citrus fruits
Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits contain a high level of acid that can trigger migraines in some people.
10. Avocado
Avocados contain tyramine, making them a possible trigger for migraines.
11. Bananas
Some bananas contain tyramine, which can trigger migraines in some people. Overripe bananas also contain histamines, which can also be a trigger for migraines.
12. Onions and garlic
Onions and garlic contain sulfites, which are compounds that can trigger migraines.
13. Artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharine are common triggers for migraines.
14. Yogurt
Yogurt that contains live and active cultures can contain tyramine, making it a possible trigger for migraines.
15. Soy sauce
Soy sauce contains MSG, which can be a trigger for migraines. It also has a high concentration of salt, which can be dehydrating and therefore trigger migraines.
16. Smoked fish
Smoked fish like salmon and trout contain tyramine, which can trigger migraines in some people.
17. Certain fruits
Fruits like figs, dates, and raisins contain tyramine and can be triggers for migraines.
18. Dairy products
Some people are sensitive to dairy products and can get migraines from consuming them. It’s important to monitor how your body reacts to dairy products if you suffer from migraines.
19. Vinegar
Vinegar contains histamines that can be a trigger for migraines in some people.
20. Processed and fried foods
Processed and fried foods can contain a high level of salt, which can lead to dehydration and therefore trigger migraines. They can also contain chemicals and additives that can trigger migraines.
21. Spicy foods
Spicy foods like hot peppers and sauces can trigger migraines due to their high levels of capsaicin.
22. Tea
Tea contains caffeine, which can be a trigger for migraines. Black teas like Earl Grey and English Breakfast also contain tannins, which can cause blood vessels to constrict.
23. Ice cream
Ice cream contains tyramine, which can be a trigger for some people. It also contains sugar, which can lead to dehydration and therefore trigger migraines.
24. Pizza
Pizza contains cheese, processed meats, and tomato sauce, all of which can be triggers for migraines in some people.
25. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain tyramine, making them a possible trigger for migraines. They also contain acids that can irritate the stomach and trigger migraines in some people.
26. Bread and other baked goods
Bread and other baked goods can contain preservatives and additives that can trigger migraines in some people.
27. Dried fruits
Dried fruits like apricots, prunes, and dates contain tyramine, making them a possible trigger for migraines.
28. Energy drinks
Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which can be a trigger for migraines. They may also contain other ingredients like taurine, guarana, and ginseng that can trigger migraines in some people.
29. Certain vegetables
Vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and spinach can contain histamines and tyramine, both of which can be triggers for migraines.
30. Some supplements and vitamins
Some supplements like fish oil and multivitamins can contain tyramine or other compounds that can trigger migraines in some people. It’s important to read labels and speak with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.