The Unexpected Reason You Might Be Getting Migraines

If you're like many of us, you might think stress is the main culprit behind those pesky migraines.

But guess what?

Recent research from Lloyds Pharmacy suggests that your diet could be playing a bigger role than you think. Let’s dive into some common food triggers and healthier alternatives to keep those headaches at bay.

Say Goodbye to Artificial Sweeteners

Love your daily Diet Coke?

It might be time to rethink that habit ...

Aspartame, commonly found in diet products and sugar-free drinks, is a potential migraine trigger. Instead, try hydrating with good old water. Your head will thank you!

Sneaky Snack Attacks

It's not just sweeteners that can bring on a migraine.

Your favourite snacks might be betraying you too. Chips like Doritos and Pringles, as well as some Chinese food and seasoning blends, could be the hidden cause of your discomfort.

These foods often contain nitrates, which dilate blood vessels and may lead to headaches.

Beware of Hidden Nitrates

Cured meats, another common migraine trigger, are packed with nitrates.

These can cause your blood vessels to expand, resulting in a headache. So, if you’re prone to migraines, it might be best to limit your intake of deli meats and sausages.

Dairy Dilemmas

Cheese lovers, this one’s for you.

Soft cheeses, along with pickled or fermented foods like sauerkraut and soy sauce, are high in tyramine, a known migraine trigger.

If you find yourself suffering after a cheese board indulgence, you might want to cut back.

Classic Culprits: Caffeine, Alcohol, and Salty Foods

We’ve all heard it before: too much caffeine, alcohol, and salty foods can lead to headaches. Moderation is key here.

Keep an eye on your intake, and try to find a balance that keeps you headache-free.

Foods That Help Prevent Migraines

Now that we’ve covered what to avoid, let’s talk about what you should add to your diet to help prevent migraines.

Leafy Greens for the Win

Leafy greens like kale, spinach, cabbage, romaine lettuce, beet greens, and collard greens are packed with folate (vitamin B9 or folic acid), which can reduce the likelihood of migraines.

So, load up your plate with these nutrient-rich veggies!

Embrace Omega-3s

Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and, in turn, headaches. Add fatty fish, flaxseed, and chia seeds to your shopping list for a migraine-fighting diet.

Low-Fat and Low-Sodium Goodness

Adopting a low-fat and low-sodium diet can be beneficial in preventing migraines. Cut back on salty foods, fatty cuts of meat, sausages, pies, cream, butter, chocolate, biscuits, and cakes.

Your body (and head) will feel much better.

Common Foods with Artificial Sweeteners

To make your life easier, here’s a quick list of some common foods and drinks that might contain artificial sweeteners:

• Ketchup
• Whole-wheat bread
• Salad dressing
• Greek yoghurt
• Granola
• Sugar-free chewing gum
• Coca-Cola
• Frozen desserts
• Tea
• Instant coffee
• Sugar-free gelatin
• Sugar-free sweets
• Flavoured coffee syrups
• Sugar-free jams and spreads

Navigating migraine triggers can be tricky, but understanding how your diet affects your headaches is a great step forward.

By avoiding certain foods and embracing healthier options, you can reduce the frequency and intensity of your migraines. Here’s to happier, healthier, and headache-free days ahead!