Many foods can be linked to triggering headaches and migraines. Foods associated with migraines contain a natural substance or food additives--sometimes a combination of both--that contribute to the onset of migraines. Knowing which foods contain ingredients that are migraine triggers can be the first step to reducing the occurrence of migraines.
Natural Migraine Contributing Substance
Tyramine is a natural substance found in protein-based foods. Tyramine forms from the breakdown of protein, and can trigger severe hypertension resulting in migraines.
Foods Containing Tyramine
The following foods contain high levels of tyramine and should be avoided by migraine sufferers:
Avocados
Bananas
Beef liver
Blue cheese
Bologna
Canned soup
Camembert cheese
Cheddar cheese
Chicken liver
Dates
Dried figs
Fava beans
Garbanzo beans
Kiwi
Lima beans
Nuts
Olives
Onions
Papaya
Peanut butter
Pepperoni
Pineapple
Pinto beans
Raisins
Raspberries
Red plums
Roquefort cheese
Salami
Sauerkraut
Soy sauce
Spinach
Stilton cheese
Summer sausage
Swiss cheese
Teriyaki
Tofu
Tomatoes
Yeast
Yeast extracts
Food Additives Proven to Contribute to Migraines
Nitrates, nitrites, monosodium glutamate (MSG), salt, aspartame, meat tenderizer and soy sauce are food preservatives that have the ability to dilate blood vessels and cause migraines. Most processed foods contain additives; while some contain minuscule amounts, others contain as many additives as the original product.
Foods Containing Food Additives
The following foods typically are abundant in food additives and should be avoided by people who suffer from frequent migraines:
Bacon
Cured meat
Deli meat
Hot dogs
Ham
Luncheon meat
Oriental foods
Pepperoni
Pickles
Processed meat
Red wine
Sausage
Whiskey
Dairy Products Can Trigger Migraines
The protein found in milk is a known allergenic for many people. This protein--casein--creates histamines, which in turn are responsible for the production of mucus. Excessive mucus puts pressure on brain membranes, which can trigger migraines.
Dairy Products to Avoid
Dairy products may contribute to migraines for many people. To see if dairy products trigger migraines, avoid the following:
Cheese (all types)
Ice cream
Milk
Sour cream
Yogurt
Considerations
Every person who experiences migraines may have different triggers; therefore, avoiding all foods listed may not be entirely necessary. For this reason, it is recommended to determine triggers through an elimination process. Eliminate all foods listed for four to six weeks, then add one food each week. Any unpleasant side effects noticed upon reintroducing a food would indicate a food to avoid.
Tags: foods contain, following foods, Foods Containing, foods listed, many people, migraines Foods, natural substance