In America, the incidences of migraine headaches are rising every year, due to the environment, daily stress, the food we eat, and numerous other factors.
Although there is no definite cure for migraines, there are things we can do to minimize the frequency, intensity, and duration of these painful attacks.
One thing we can do is monitor what we eat, and avoid foods that might trigger a migraine headache.
Another strategy is to eat foods that could ease the symptoms of migraine.
There are many possible migraine triggers, and certain foods seem to be at the top of the list.
Foods To Avoid For Migraine Relief:
> Foods high in Tyramine or Phenylethylamine:
While everyone has differing food triggers, Tyramine and Phenylethylamine are common food triggers in migraine cases.
Processed meats, nuts, seeds, and aged cheese all contain these amino acids.Tyramine is also found in red wine, which is a known migraine trigger.
> Nitrates:
Nitrates, found in cured meats such as bacon, hot dogs, and salami, are triggers that can cause migraine headaches. Vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, and radishes also have high levels of Nitrates.
> Sulphites:
Prunes, figs, Apricots, and certain grape juices are Sulphite rich, and may be migraine food triggers.
> MSG:
MSG ( monosodium glutamate ) is a flavor enhancer that is to be avoided in migraine treatment.
> Aspartame:
Also known as Nutrasweet, this artificial sweetener is believed to be a migraine trigger.
> Alcohol:
Excessive amounts of alcohol can cause migraine headaches because of the high levels of Tyramine that alcoholic beverages contain.
The Migraine Diet:
These are foods that have been shown to reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of migraine headaches.
> Fish:
Eating fish that is high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids ( Pacific Herring, Mackerel, Albacore Tuna, Salmon ) will lower the production of Prostaglandins, chemicals that may cause inflammation in the body, which can be a major cause of migraines.
> Foods Rich In Magnesium:
Soy milk, seafood, and black beans all have high levels of magnesium, a mineral that is important for blood pressure, heart rhythm, and helps with migraine relief.
> Tryptophan:
Turkey, black-eyed peas, whole grains, and walnuts are high in Tryptophan. The amino acid Tryptophan contributes in the production of Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that reduces the frequency of migraines.
> Water:
Drinking plenty of water will flush the body of harmful toxins, and will insure that the body is well hydrated. Dehydration is thought to be a major trigger of migraine headaches. A minimum of six to eight glasses of water a day should keep the body hydrated, and will aid in migraine prevention.
> Sices:
When dieting, sprinkling a dash of cayenne pepper or ginger may ease migraine symptoms.
> Olive Oil:
Olive Oil, high in Vitamin E can improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, which contributes to migraine symptoms.
> Caffeine:
Moderate servings of caffeine may ease migraine pain by regulating blood vessel constriction.
When using a migraine diet, remember to eat regularly, with moderate portions, and drink plenty of water.
Also, keep a daily diary, to learn what foods may trigger your migraine, and discover the foods that will control these painful attacks.
To Your Health,
John Fox
John Fox lives in New York, and writes articles on pain related topics.
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