Migraines are a type of headache that is usually characterized by a throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. While there are many triggers for migraines, food can play a huge role in both the frequency and severity of migraines.

What you eat can either make your migraines worse or help to alleviate them. In this article, we explore the impact of eating habits on migraines.

What Are Migraines?

Migraines are severe headaches that can cause significant pain, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, and sound sensitivity. They can last for hours or even days and can significantly impair a person’s ability to function.

They are usually preceded by warning signs such as visual disturbances, tingling sensations, and other sensory changes.

Migraines can be caused by a variety of things, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, and environmental factors. But food can also play a significant role in migraine triggers.

Certain foods can cause migraines, while others can help to alleviate them.

Foods that Trigger Migraines

Certain foods are known to trigger migraines in some people. While everyone is different, and triggers can vary, here are some common foods that many migraine sufferers find problematic:.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can help to relieve headaches, but it can also trigger migraines in some people. High doses of caffeine, such as those found in energy drinks and some medications, can be especially problematic.

Processed Foods

Processed foods are high in additives, preservatives, and other chemicals that can trigger migraines. Foods like hot dogs, bacon, sausages, and other processed meats are known to be especially problematic.

Alcohol

Alcohol, especially red wine, is a common migraine trigger. While some types of alcohol, such as white wine and beer, may be less problematic, it’s essential to monitor your alcohol intake if you suffer from migraines.

Dairy

Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk can be problematic for some migraine sufferers. While the reason is not entirely clear, it’s thought that the high levels of tyramine and other biogenic amines in some dairy products may trigger migraines.

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Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are high in histamine, which can be problematic for some people. Histamine can cause inflammation, which can trigger migraines.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin can be problematic for some people. While the reason is not entirely clear, it’s thought that these sweeteners may trigger migraines in some people.

Foods that Can Help Alleviate Migraines

While certain foods can trigger migraines, other foods can help to alleviate them. Here are some foods that may help to reduce the severity and frequency of migraines:.

Ginger

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. It’s also known to help reduce nausea and vomiting, which can be common symptoms of migraines.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are loaded with nutrients that can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They’re also high in magnesium, which is essential for relieving migraines.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. They’re also high in vitamin D, which can help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

Water

Dehydration is a common trigger for many migraines. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help to prevent dehydration and reduce the frequency of migraines.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are high in magnesium, which is essential for relieving migraines. They’re also high in vitamin E, which can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.