Migraines are chronic, painful headaches that can occur due to fluctuations of a chemical in your brain called serotonin. When serotonin levels drop, blood vessels may become swollen and initiate a headache. Since there is no cure for migraines, the goal is to discover what triggers them and eliminate the source, if possible. Certain foods are notorious for their effect on serotonin levels, so paying careful attention to the foods you eat may help you decrease migraine occurrences. Unfortunately, since everyone can react to foods differently, you will most likely need to experiment with foods to expose the culprits you need to avoid.
Beverages
Avoid beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee, tea, caffeinated sodas, energy drinks and cocoa. Caffeinated beverages may trigger a migraine headache even if consumed in small amounts. Also, do not consume alcohol, particularly beer and red wine.
Dairy
Beware of cultured dairy products, such as buttermilk and sour cream. Aged cheeses may also initiate a migraine response. Avoid cheeses such as Camembert, Brie, Stilton, Gouda, Gruyere, Roquefort and Parmesan. Also, limit your intake of yogurt products.
Grains and Breads
Most grains and commercially baked breads do not cause migraines, but freshly baked yeast products may be an issue for some migraine sufferers. Avoid fresh doughnuts, breads, coffee cakes and other freshly baked yeast products.
Fruits and Vegetables
Certain fruits may also cause a migraine response in some people. Avoid fruits such as papayas, figs and raisins, and do not consume overripe bananas. Limit your intake of citrus fruits and overripe avocados, which may also initiate a migraine. Vegetables that may trigger a headache include raw garlic, onions, snow peas and beans such as string, navy, pinto, lima, pole, Italian, garbanzo, broad and fava. In addition, do not eat pickled products such as pickles and sauerkraut.
Food Additives
Some food additives on the market might also initiate migraine responses in some people. Avoid food products that contain aspartame, monosodium glutamate, seasoned salt, meat tenderizers and yeast or yeast extract. Read foods labels carefully as manufacturers change the ingredients they use in their products from time to time.
Miscellaneous Food Products
Other foods that might trigger a migraine response include nuts or nut butters, pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds, salty foods and processed foods, such as frozen dinners. Also, watch out for medications that contain caffeine, aspirin, vitamin A or niacin, and discuss medications you are taking with your doctor if you are concerned.
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