What To Eat To Prevent A Headache

Headaches derive from numerous places, but most occur from stimulation to head and neck nerves. Despite intense feelings of brain pain, headaches actually are controlled by the brain, which has no pain sensations at all. Nutrition plays a key role in headache prevention and can be a healthier alternative than medications. Consult with your doctor for headaches that occur more than once or twice a week.

Hot Peppers

Cluster, migraine and sinus headaches develop when nerve fibers swell after coming into contact with Substance P, the key transmitter of pain to the brain. These nerve fibers are a smaller part of the trigeminal nerve that runs through the head, temple and sinus cavity. Dr. Nicolas Perricone of "O Magazine" writes that hot peppers help to prevent and relieve these headaches through their rich and fiery inclusion of an anti-inflammatory compound called capsaicin.

Potassium-Rich Foods

Headaches most commonly are related to muscle tension but also can derive from dehydration, or a loss of water and electrolytes from the body. Fruits such as dried prunes, bananas, dried apricots, tomatoes, papaya and cantaloupe can prevent dehydration headaches by providing high quantities of potassium. Potatoes, mushrooms, brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach and cucumbers are recommended vegetable choices, according to Ohio State University Medical Center. Additional hydrating sweet treats include yogurt, molasses, eggnog, peanut butter and chocolate.

Blood Vessel Relaxation

Alcohol-related headaches occur from dehydration and the expansion of blood vessels. Water-rich foods such as watermelon, berries, oatmeal and lettuce can help hydrate your body and prevent headache symptoms with the electrolyte magnesium. One cup of coffee and handful of almonds daily can help prevent headaches by reducing the size of blood vessels, says registered dietitian Erin Palinski. Avocados, cashews, brown rice, legumes and seeds contain magnesium and are beneficial in preventing migraines.

Hormone Stabilization

Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone may affect headache-related chemicals in the brain, according to MayoClinic.com. These fluctuations often result in monthly headaches for females during times of low estrogen. Adding foods to your diet that are high in vitamin C can aid in preventing hormonal headaches by stabilizing estrogen, says Palinski. Sunflower and sesame seeds, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts are excellent sources of vitamin E. Sunflower, safflower, corn and soybean oils also are beneficial.