Migraines are severe headaches that may lead to unbearable pulsing sensations or throbbing on one side of the head. These attacks may last for a few hours or a couple of days. Such chronic pain may also affect one’s daily lifestyle. Though the exact cause of migraines is unknown, multiple factors trigger them, including the foods we eat. In this article, we have listed five foods that may trigger migraines.

Chocolate
Chocolate is the second-most common trigger when it comes to migraines. It contains properties like caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine that may trigger headaches in people with the condition. According to the American Migraine Foundation, 22% of people who experience migraines claim chocolate to be the trigger.

Citrus fruits
Eating fresh fruits can help steer clear of many diseases and lead a healthy life. But citrus fruits may have the opposite effect on people who experience migraines. Some citrus fruits to avoid include oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and pineapples. According to studies, citrus fruits carry may trigger excessive release of histamine.

Cheese
For those with migraines, it’s best to avoid adding cheese to their meal plans. Cheeses are generally aged and contain tyramine, an amino acid. Tyramine is a naturally occurring acid in the human body that regulates blood pressure. However, excessive tyramine is bad for the body and may trigger migraines. Cheddar, blue cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and English stilton are a few examples of tyramine-rich cheese.

Coffee
Coffee may help people stay awake during strenuous working hours, but the food is harmful to one’s health. Coffee contains caffeine, which is a known trigger of migraines. Inconsistent levels of caffeine in the body may negatively influence the dilation of blood vessels and lead to headaches.

Processed and cured meat
Processed and cured meats contain added nitrates to help preserve their color and flavor. Such foods are usually the first choice for those who need a quick meal on a time crunch. However, these nitrites and nitrates are harmful to the human body and can also trigger migraines. A few types of meat to avoid or reduce daily meals include sausage, bacon, ham, and deli meats.

If the migraine persists despite making changes to nutritional habits, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional immediately. QULIPTA™ is a common preventive treatment specifically designed to manage migraine attacks among adults. This prescription blocks calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein believed to cause migraine episodes. Appropriate and timely treatments can help reduce migraine significantly.