Migraines are a type of headache that can cause severe pain, throbbing, and pulsing sensations in the head. If you suffer from migraines frequently, you know how debilitating they can be.

Migraines can make it hard to concentrate, work, or even perform simple tasks. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to prevent migraines from occurring by avoiding foods that can trigger them. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the foods you should avoid eating if you have frequent migraines.

1. Processed Meats

If you’re a fan of hot dogs, bacon, sausages, or any other processed meats, you might want to think twice before including them in your diet. Processed meats contain nitrates that can trigger migraines in some people.

These nitrates can cause your blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to intense headaches. So if you want to avoid migraines, it’s best to avoid processed meats as much as possible.

2. Cheese

Cheese is another common trigger for migraines. Cheese contains tyramine, a substance that can trigger migraines in some people. Tyramine is a byproduct of the amino acid tyrosine, which is found in various foods.

Tyramine forms when these foods are aged or fermented, such as with cheese or wine. So if you’re prone to migraines, it’s best to avoid cheese, especially aged cheese, such as blue cheese, cheddar, and parmesan.

3. Alcohol

Alcohol is another common trigger for migraines. Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks contain tyramine, which we just mentioned is a trigger for migraines. Alcohol also causes dehydration, which can lead to headaches.

So if you suffer from frequent migraines, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether.

4. Caffeine

Caffeine is a popular stimulant found in coffee, tea, soda, and various other drinks. While some people use caffeine to treat migraines, others find it can trigger them.

Drinking too much caffeine can cause your blood vessels to constrict, which can lead to headaches. So if you’re prone to migraines, it’s best to limit your caffeine intake or eliminate it altogether.

5. Chocolate

Chocolate is a beloved treat for many, but unfortunately, it can trigger migraines. Chocolate contains caffeine, which we just mentioned can trigger migraines.

Chocolate also contains tyramine, as well as phenylethylamine, which can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to headaches. So if you love chocolate but suffer from frequent migraines, it’s best to avoid it as much as possible.

6. MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)

MSG is a flavor enhancer that is often added to Chinese food, processed foods, and various snacks. While some people don’t react to MSG, others find that it can trigger migraines.

MSG is believed to cause blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to headaches. So if you’re someone who is prone to migraines, it’s best to avoid foods that contain MSG.

7. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, are known to trigger migraines in some people. Citrus fruits contain histamines, which can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to headaches.

So if you’re someone who suffers from frequent migraines, it’s best to avoid citrus fruits altogether.

8. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, are commonly used in diet drinks and sugar-free snacks. While they might sound like a healthy alternative to sugar, they can trigger migraines in some people.

Aspartame, in particular, has been associated with migraines and can lead to headaches in some people. So if you’re someone who frequently suffers from migraines, it’s best to avoid artificial sweeteners.

9. Fermented or Pickled Foods

Foods that are fermented or pickled, such as pickles, sauerkraut, and kimchi, are high in histamines. Histamines can cause blood vessels to dilate and lead to headaches.

So if you’re someone who suffers from frequent migraines, it’s best to avoid these types of foods.

10. Certain Nuts and Seeds

Finally, some nuts and seeds, such as peanuts and sesame seeds, can trigger migraines in some people. These foods contain tyramine, which we already mentioned is a trigger for migraines.

So if you’re prone to migraines, it’s best to avoid these nuts and seeds.

Conclusion

If you suffer from frequent migraines, it’s important to be aware of the foods that can trigger them. By avoiding or limiting your intake of these foods, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.

Remember, everyone is different, so what triggers migraines in one person may not affect another. It’s always best to pay attention to your own body and take note of the foods that seem to trigger your headaches.