A migraine headache is a neurological problem that causes intense pain, nausea and sensitivity to light. These headaches, which can be debilitating, are sometimes preceded by visual disturbance, also known as auras. Although we don't know what causes migraine headaches, certain things can trigger them, such as the consumption of certain foods or beverages.
Dairy
Eating dairy products is commonly associated with migraines. Dairy products contain histamine, SteadyHealth.com notes, which may be responsible for causing the chemical changes leading to a migraine. Consuming sour cream, yogurt or buttermilk in particular can trigger migraines.
Tyramine
Another trigger for migraines is the chemical tyramine. Many cheeses, such as gouda, gruyere, roquefort, cheddar, mozzarella, brie, Swiss, parmesan, provolone and romano contain tyramine. Avoid aged cheeses to prevent migraines, EMedTV explains, as the aging process can increase the tyramine level.
Meats
Many different meat products may also cause migraines. Meats that are canned, aged, processed or cured often contain nitrates, which are linked to migraines. If you suffer from migraines, avoid hot dogs, pepperoni, sausages, sardines, ham, pickled herring, chicken livers, bologna, salami, caviar and pate, the University of California, Berkeley, advises. Also refrain from eating meat that has been treated with meat tenderizers or soy sauce.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables can also contain chemicals that trigger migraines. Fruits associated with an increased frequency of migraines include papayas, red plums, raisins, figs and overripe avocados and bananas. The vegetables that often serve as migraine triggers are snow peas, onions, garlic, string beans, olives, pickles and sauerkraut. Many different beans, such as favo, broad, lima, pinto, navy, pole, Italian and garbanzo may also lead to migraine headaches.
Yeast
Foods containing fresh yeast may also be responsible for migraine headaches. If you have problems with migraines, avoid consuming freshly baked bread and other baked goods, such as doughnuts, coffee cake and sourdough bread, that have been prepared with yeast. Brewer's yeast may also be used to treat some meat products, so check for yeast as an ingredient in the meat you consume.
Beverages
Some beverages are also linked to migraine headaches. Alcohol, particularly red wine, may increase the likelihood of migraines; the presence of chemicals known as tannins may be the reason why the link between red wine and migraines is so strong. Caffeine is also a potential trigger, so people who suffer from migraines should avoid caffeinated coffee, tea and soft drinks. Chocolate and cocoa may also result in migraine headaches.
Monosodium Glutamate
Monosodium glutamate is a chemical additive often used to enhance flavor and most commonly found in Chinese food and some salty snacks. This compound can also bring on migraines.
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