Migraine is the primary form of headache, which can be aggravated due to the influence of certain factors, one of which is nutrition, more precisely, the consumption of certain foods, neurologist Anastasia Tarasova from SM-Clinic told socialbites.ca.
He noted that a study conducted on 200 people with migraine revealed that 90% of them knew at least one migraine trigger. The most frequently cited symptoms were physical or emotional stress, menstrual bleeding, bright or flashing lights, and strong odors.
“In addition, most people suffering from migraines cite trigger foods, the consumption of which, as a rule, leads to the occurrence of a migraine attack. In particular, the foods that trigger migraines the most include bacon, sausages, ham and sausages,” said Tarasova.
He also says these are foods that contain a substance called tyramine – aged cheeses (such as blue, Parmesan, cheddar), smoked or marinated meat or fish, some legumes, sauerkraut, fermented soy products (miso, soy sauce or teriyaki sauce), also nuts and red wine.
“Tyramine is a compound formed when the amino acid tyrosine is broken down. “Tyramine is known to cause selective constriction and subsequent re-dilation of cerebral vessels (the most common cause of throbbing headaches),” the neurologist explained.
He also added that foods containing nicotine and caffeine, alcoholic beverages and tropical fruits can cause migraine attacks.
“Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes and tangerines also contain high concentrations of tyramine. “You should avoid eating ripe bananas, pineapples and avocados, especially if you are sensitive to tyramine,” noted Tarasova.
According to him, people who regularly suffer from migraine pain are also advised to pay attention to products containing certain nutritional supplements. While there are no large studies confirming their significant contribution to migraine, numerous cases have been documented where products containing monosodium glutamate, aspartame, sulfites, nitrates, and tartazine dye have triggered migraine attacks.
“First of all, these compounds can mostly be found in fast food dishes and fast food products (quickly brewed soups, cereals, purees),” the expert said.
She also noted that if a person has frequent migraine attacks, it may be helpful to keep a food diary and a headache diary and keep track of which foods may be triggers for you.
“It’s important to remember that your attack trigger won’t always be like other people’s migraine triggers, and it doesn’t have to lead to the onset of an attack every time. Pay attention to your diet, making sure it contains many foods from the “red list” we mentioned above, but don’t overdo it. Hunger can also trigger migraines.” “It is important to have a regular and balanced diet, which will allow you to control the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks much more effectively,” he said.
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