One bite triggers migraine: Be careful when consuming these foods!
Aged foods like Parmesan and cheddar, as well as fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut, contain high levels of tyramine. Tyramine can affect blood vessels in the brain, triggering migraines. According to the American Migraine Foundation, these foods are among the most commonly reported triggers. What to Do: Choose fresh dairy products or plant-based alternatives. Fresh cheeses like mozzarella or cottage cheese are safer options. Keeping a food diary can help you identify which foods trigger your migraines.
Processed meat products like sucuk, salami, sausage, and pastrami can trigger migraines due to their nitrate, nitrite, and tyramine content. This association is particularly pronounced in patients with aura-type migraines. What to do? Avoid processed meats and focus on fresh, natural protein sources. Read labels and choose products that are additive-free.
Red wine, in particular, can trigger attacks due to its histamine, tyramine, sulfite, and tannin content. According to a 2018 study, 35% of migraine sufferers identified alcohol as a trigger, with red wine accounting for 77% of this figure. What to Do? Limit your alcohol consumption. If you're at high risk of dehydration, avoid alcohol altogether.
Caffeine may relieve headaches in the short term. However, excessive consumption or abrupt withdrawal can trigger a rebound effect in the blood vessels, worsening migraines. What to do? Consume caffeine in moderation. One to two cups of coffee per day is considered safe for most people. Avoid abrupt withdrawal.
Chocolate, which contains caffeine, tyramine, and beta-phenylethylamine, can also trigger migraines. However, some experts argue that increased appetite before a migraine attack complicates this relationship. What to do? Try products with a lower cocoa content, such as white chocolate. Alternatively, consider natural products like carob.
MSG, used as a flavor enhancer, is particularly prevalent in processed foods and some restaurant dishes. Due to its effects on the nervous system, it can trigger seizures in some people. What to Do? Flavor your meals with natural spices. Look for MSG or "glutamate" on labels. 7. ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS Artificial sweeteners like aspartame can cause neurological reactions in some migraine sufferers. What to Do? Avoid artificial sweeteners for a while and observe your body's reaction. Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup are good choices for sweetening.
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits may trigger aura-related attacks in some patients. What to do? Consume acidic fruits in moderation. When consuming cold drinks or ice cream, go slow and avoid sudden exposure to cold temperatures.
While migraine triggers vary from person to person, it's undeniable that dietary habits play a significant role. Keeping a journal to identify which foods trigger your attacks and developing a personalized migraine plan in consultation with your doctor can be an effective way to manage your migraines.
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