9 Foods And Drinks That Can Cause Migraines

Migraines are one of the most common causes of doctor visits around the world. In fact, it is one of the biggest causes of disability, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). It is characterized by strong, throbbing pain in one or both sides of the head, almost always accompanied by dizziness, haze and photosensitivity. Find out what can cause migraines in this article!

The intense pain can last for only a few minutes, but in most cases it lasts for several hours or even days. Genetic factors, as well as constant stress, hormonal changes and certain stimuli  of migraines associated with can cause migraines.

Along with these reasons, however, it has been established that up to 30% have to do with certain unhealthy eating habits. Some foods are especially problematic due to their composition and effects on your body.

Find out which foods and beverages can cause migraines!

Foods and drinks that can cause migraines

1. Peanut butter

Peanut butter is associated with headaches and migraines. It contains a vasoactive amino acid called tyramine that triggers such reactions. It also contains substances that trigger allergic reactions in some people, which can affect inflammation and circulation.

2. Beer

While many medicinal properties have been attributed to it over the years, beer can cause intense headaches due to tyramine and alcohol content.

Both substances are stimulants and can cause inflammation in various tissues in your body. Together with the fact that excessive consumption affects the metabolism, this explains why beer tends to aggravate the symptoms of migraines.

3. Red wine

A glass of wine a day gives the body a wide range of antioxidants and even helps to improve circulation. However, it is not advisable for people prone to migraines and headaches  because it contains tyramine, phenols and other compounds that lead to these problems.

4. Ost

It tastes good and has a unique texture that we love. However, people who get migraines should unfortunately reduce their consumption of cheese as much as possible, as it contains compounds that often make the symptoms worse. The protein and fat in this food increase inflammation and make it harder to control headaches and vision problems.

5. Well-processed meat

For anyone who gets migraines, all types of processed meat or cured meats, such as cold cuts, are not a friend. These foods contain additives such as nitrites and nitrates which, in addition to giving you an increased risk of cancer, also increase inflammation and blood flow to your brain, leading to intense headaches.

6. Fried foods and foods high in fat

Fried foods and foods high in saturated fat trigger inflammation in certain tissues and are often responsible for the appearance of migraine symptoms. Both increase cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels, thus increasing the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular complications. In addition, it inhibits metabolism and makes it more difficult for your body to oxygenate cells properly.

7. Too much coffee

Excessive caffeine intake, either from coffee or other beverages, can cause headaches and migraines. However, not drinking it, especially when your body is used to it in small amounts, can also have a negative effect on your body. So it is best to avoid consuming too much of it or cutting it out altogether.

8. Chocolate

A small amount of chocolate a day provides your body with antioxidants and has benefits for your circulation as well as your cognitive health. That said, however, people who consume it in large quantities have a greater risk of getting migraines, since chocolate affects vasodilation due to its tyramine content.

9. Refined grain

Refined flour and other sources of gluten have been linked to worsening of migraine symptoms. This protein, which is so difficult to digest, causes imbalances in inflammatory, gastrointestinal and metabolic processes in those who have intolerance.

People with gluten intolerance or celiac disease see significant improvement in headaches when they avoid gluten. Although the above foods are not the only causes of migraines, it is wise to limit their consumption to avoid worsening your symptoms.

A healthy diet and rest can be very helpful in combating this problem.