Some people have a greater sensitivity to certain chemicals in foods. Eating these foods can trigger headaches. According the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, the most common headache-causing chemicals are sulfites, tyramine, glutamine and aspartame. Some of these chemicals occur naturally in foods; others are common additives. If you suspect foods cause your headaches, ask your doctor about testing. You can also try eliminating common headache triggers from your diet, then adding them back slowly, one at a time, to see if the headaches reoccur.
Chinese Food
Chinese food often contains monosodium glutamate, commonly known as MSG. MSG acts as a flavor enhancer, but it can also trigger headaches. In addition to Chinese food, MSG may be an ingredient in seasoned salts, processed gravy, some lunch meats and veggie burgers. Read package labeling carefully if you're sensitive to MSG, and request that it be left out of restaurant meals and Chinese food.
Processed Meats
Sausage, lunch meat, cured hams, hot dogs, beef jerky, pepperoni and other processed meats often contain nitrates or nitrites. These chemicals are added as part of the curing process, and can trigger headaches in sensitive individuals. Look for versions of such products labeled "natural" or "uncured" and read the label to verify that they don't contain these ingredients.
Cheese
The University of Wisconsin School of Public Health reports that aged cheese presents the most problem for sensitive individuals, but some people have problems with any kind of fermented milk product, including cottage cheese, yogurt, sour cream and buttermilk. Also avoid foods that contain cheese, such as pizza or macaroni and cheese.
Nuts
Nuts and nut butters cause headaches in some people. Though peanuts are legumes, not nuts, they also cause headaches in some people. Avoid peanut butter, almonds, walnuts and other tree nuts. Instead of nuts, substitute seeds, such as sesame seeds.
Alcohol
Compounds in red wine, champagne and dark liquors are the most likely culprits in alcohol-caused headaches, reports the University of Wisconsin School of Public Health. Sulfites in wine can also contribute to headaches. Even vinegar in salad dressings, mustard and ketchup can contribute to headaches. If you must drink, Wisconsin's experts add, vodka causes fewer problems for sensitive people.
Fruits
Citrus fruits, bananas, avocados and dried fruits can trigger headaches in some people, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Stick to fresh apples, pears, melons and strawberries.
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