Migraines are severe headaches that can last anywhere from hours to days. Although there are some medications that may decrease the number of migraines you have and the severity of those migraines, there is no known cure for those who get migraines. However, avoiding certain foods may make these headaches less likely, at least in some people.
Foods to Avoid
Processed foods, salty foods, MSG, caffeine, chocolate, aspartame and aged cheeses are common migraine triggers. Your migraines might also be triggered by very cold foods, nitrates, cultured dairy products, cereals, pork, vegetables, foods containing phenylalanine, dried fruits, beans, pickled foods, dried or smoked fish, organ meats, nuts and seeds, onions, avocados and some fresh fruits.
Effects
Chris Suellentrop of The New York Times tried the migraine diet that is recommended by neurologist David Buchholz in his book, "Heal Your Headache," and had fewer and less severe migraines for a short time, but then the headaches got worse again. You might find that following this type of diet can lessen the number and severity of the migraines you have enough that you can avoid taking migraine medication. However, this diet does not work for everyone.
Considerations
Following a diet that eliminates all of the possible dietary triggers for migraines can be quite difficult since so many foods are included. Paying attention to which foods you consume before you have a migraine, and just eliminating those foods, may work better for you.
Other Causes
The cause of migraines still isn't clear, according to the Mayo Clinic, but probably includes both genetic and environmental factors. Although food is one of the things that may trigger your migraines, changes in sleep cycles, environment and hormone levels can also result in the onset of migraines, as can certain medications, stress, physical exertion and sensory stimuli.
Expert Insight
Each patient should be evaluated to determine which, if any, foods contribute to their problems with migraines, according to an article by R. Leira published in the "Revista de Neurologia" in 1996. Food allergies and hypoglycemia may be responsible for your migraines, as well as particular foods.
