Migraine headaches are characterized by throbbing pain, generally on one side of the head. The pain can be moderate to severe, and is often made worse by movement, light or sound. Typically only 15-20 percent of people actually experience the tell-tale auras before a migraine begins. For many individuals, migraines are triggered by certain foods. Migraine sufferers should avoid the following foods and food additives.
Beverages
Alcoholic beverages--especially red wine--caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and soda, and chocolate are all common migraine triggers. Although there is some debate over the exact cause of migraines, excessive caffeine consumption or withdrawal from caffeine seems to be a problem. A little caffeine may actually help relieve symptoms of acute, or severe migraines. Doctors recommend keeping a food diary and recording any occurrences of migraines to see if there is a correlation. Instead of drinking coffee or soda, try fresh juices and, of course, plenty of water.
Dairy
Tyramine, found in some cheeses, can trigger migraine headaches. Additionally, dairy products in general can increase mucous production and worsen symptoms of chronic sinusitis, which can cause severe headaches in the front of the head and face. These severe sinus headaches are sometimes categorized as migraines, although they are actually related to sinus infection. Avoid dairy, except in small amounts. Soy milk, tofu and soy-based cheeses, yogurt and even ice cream are excellent substitutions, and they are available in just about any supermarket.
Yeast Breads
Yeast breads may also trigger a migraine. According to the Wisconsin Institute of Nutrition, it may not be the bread per se, but rather the yeast bacterium itself. Candida albicans, otherwise known as yeast, is a bacteria that lives in the intestinal tract. There are other bacteria, or "friendly flora," which also reside in the digestive system to keep harmful bacteria such as candida in check. However, when candida becomes overgrown, the result is a yeast infection. Some individuals are allergic to the candida. The body responds with headaches, fatigue and a weakened immune system. Those with candida-related migraines can benefit from taking supplemental probiotics, the friendly bacteria. In addition, white breads, cookies, cakes, and sweetened cereals contain excessive sugar, which feeds the bacteria and encourages proliferation. Migraine sufferers should try to consume only whole grain breads, pastas and cereals instead of processed flours. Even these should be kept to a minimum.
Meats
Some people have allergies to certain meats, especially seafood and shellfish, which can bring on migraines. However, the usual culprits are the food additives in processed meats such as sausage, pepperoni, hot dogs, luncheon meats, etc. Sodium nitrite, nitrate and nitrosamine, along with monosodium glutamate (MSG) are common food additives to avoid. Many natural health food stores and specialty stores now carry nitrite/nitrate-free meats. Fresh, additive-free meats are best.
Precautions
To determine if migraines are triggered by certain foods, begin by eliminating the above trigger foods from the diet for a period of two weeks or more. Then reintroduce foods back into the diet one at a time to find the offenders. However, it is important to note that not all migraines are brought on by foods or food additives. Migraine sufferers should consult their doctor or healthcare practitioner to discuss treatment options.
