Migraines are chronic severe headaches that are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Some migraines are preceded by warning signs such as a visual aura, blind spots, or tingling in your limbs. While the causes of migraines are not clear, lifestyle changes such as changes in your dietary habits can sometimes help reduce the frequency of their occurrence.
Alcoholic Drinks
Alcohol is a common trigger for migraine headaches. According to the Mayo Clinic, beer and red wine are especially likely to cause migraines in sufferers. This may be due to sulfites and tannins found in these beverages, as well as the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
Caffeinated Drinks
Drinking too much caffeine can cause migraines in sufferers. To avoid overconsumption, limit your intake of coffee, tea and soda unless they are decaffeinated. Chocolate also contains caffeine and can trigger migraines.
Aged Cheeses
According to the Mayo Clinic, aged cheeses such as Parmesan, cheddar, and gorgonzola may trigger migraines.These cheeses contain a substance called tyramine, which can trigger migraines. Tyramine affects the dilation of blood vessels in your head, which may be what aggravates the headache.
Monosodium glutamate
Foods high in monosodium glutamate, or MSG, may trigger migraines in the susceptible. MSG is an additive used to preserve and flavor food. It is particularly common in Asian foods; ask at your local restaurant to be sure they do not use it if you are prone to migraines. MSG is also commonly added to highly processed foods and canned goods.
Other Common Triggers
Tyramine is an amino acid that commonly triggers migraines in sufferers. Foods that contain tyramine include peanuts, almonds, nut butters and sunflower seeds. Many migraine sufferers are sensitive to foods that contain aspartame, an artificial sweetener. Highly processed foods that contain nitrates are another common trigger.
