Migraine headaches can occur when there is a fluctuation of a chemical produced in the brain called serotonin. When levels of serotonin fall, blood vessels begin to swell cause pain. Numerous things cause serotonin levels to fluctuate including blood sugar, certain foods and variations in estrogen levels if you are a woman. While there is no cure for migraine headaches, proper medication along with changes in lifestyle can help you manage them. Talk with your doctor about what options are available for you.
Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are a migraine trigger in some individuals with red wine, beer and sherry at the top of the list. In addition, drinks and foods containing caffeine, even in small amounts, seem to be another culprit.
Dairy Products
Cultured dairy products such as buttermilk and sour cream are notorious offenders. Another dairy product to watch for is aged cheese such as Brie, Camembert, Swiss, Roquefort, Gouda and Gruyere. Chocolate milk should also be avoided since chocolate is an additional migraine trigger.
Breads
Bread products containing yeast such as coffee cake, doughnuts and sourdough bread can produce a migraine. Also stay away from breads and crackers that contain cheese, such as pizza.
Food Additives
Read food labels carefully as many food additives can trigger a migraine headache. Beware of monosodium glutamate, also known as MSG, meat tenderizer, seasoned salt, brewer's yeast, nitrates, tyramine and autolytic yeast. Avoid products that contain Nutrasweet and Aspartame.
Fruits and Vegetables
Although fruits and vegetables are normally a healthy food for you, there are some that are capable of producing a migraine. Stay away from onions, olives, snow peas, raw garlic, sauerkraut and pickles. Avoid beans such as string beans, pole beans and navy, pinto, lima, Italian, garbanzo and fava beans. Fruits to avoid include figs, raisins, papayas, avocados, red plums and overripe bananas.
Miscellaneous Food Products
You should be cautious when consuming frozen TV dinners, nuts and nut butters, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds and foods that are fermented, pickled or marinated. Furthermore, you should consult your doctor if you are taking niacin or vitamin A as these can also initiate a migraine headache.
