Headaches can present as a sharp pain in one location, a squeezing pain across the entire head, a radiating pain from one point to another or a dull ache in one region. Severe headaches may result in dizziness, a stiff neck or nausea. The most common headaches include migraines, cluster headaches and tension headaches, according to MayoClinic.com. A variety of foods may worsen headaches.
Sunflower Seeds
The Migraine Headaches website suggests that eating foods with dietary estrogens, also called phytoestrogens, can worsen headaches. Sunflower seeds contain phytoestrogens as well as tyramine and monosodium glutamate, or MSG, both of which are known to cause headaches. These seeds also contain high levels of vitamin E, vitamin B1, manganese, magnesium, copper and selenium as well as vitamin B5 and folic acid. Individuals who are sensitive to phytoestrogens and cut sunflower seeds out of their diets to avoid foods that worsen headaches should make an effort to eat foods that offer those nutrients to ensure they eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Coffee Beans
Coffee beans, a commonly known phytoestrogen, can make headaches worse regardless of whether the coffee made from the beans is caffeinated or decaffeinated, reports the Migraine Headaches website. Coffee beans, a food high in caffeine, may also trigger headaches, so those with a sensitivity to phytoestrogens should avoid drinking coffee or ingesting foods containing coffee in order to keep headaches from worsening. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which are chemicals that can prevent cell damage, as well as trace amounts of choline, folic acid, niacin, vitamin K and pantothenic acid. One cup of coffee also offers 11 percent of the daily recommended intake of riboflavin. Those avoiding coffee because it can worsen headaches should incorporate other foods into the diet to increase intake of these nutrients.
Pomegranate
Eating pomegranate, a fruit native to the area from Iran to the Himalayas, can make headaches worse because of its phytoestrogen effects, according to the Migraine Headaches website. Pomegranates also contain high levels of tannins, another chemical known to cause headaches. Pomegranates offer high levels of anthocyanins and ellagic acid, healthy antioxidants that may help prevent cancer and heart disease, and serve as a source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, iron and protein. No scientific evidence exists to prove claims of the effect of pomegranates on disease, but those with phytoestrogen sensitivities who avoid eating pomegranates to prevent headaches from worsening should take care to eat foods that can provide the same nutrients.
