Nutrition can play a big role in managing migraines. For those who get them often, what you eat matters. Avoiding certain foods and drinks can help lessen how often and how bad migraines are.
Alcohol affects people differently when it comes to migraines. Some say wine sets them off, while others point to stronger drinks. Red wine is often blamed, maybe because of a chemical called tyramine, which can mess with blood pressure and cause migraines if you have too much.
Be careful with cheese, especially aged ones. They can make migraines worse because they have more tyramine as they get older. So, it’s best not to overdo it with cheddar, gorgonzola, or any other kinds.
Dark chocolate is another one to watch out for. It’s high in tyramine, but we’re not totally sure if eating it directly causes migraines. Some people say they crave sweets before a migraine hits, but we’re not sure if that’s a cause or just a warning sign.
Caffeine is tricky. It’s used to treat migraines, but too much can dehydrate you and give you a headache, just like alcohol. If you’re prone to migraines, stick to one cup of coffee a day, and try to have it at the same time every day.
Lastly, avoid processed meats. They often have nitrates and nitrites, which can mess with your blood pressure and make migraines worse. Having regular meals is key to avoiding headaches, so try not to skip any.