Diet and Migraines

Some foods in our diet can trigger off migraine attacks in susceptible individuals. Other foods can bring an attack on through an allergic reaction. A certain number of foods such as citrus fruits, tea, coffee, pork, chocolate, milk, nuts, vegetables and cola drinks have been cited as possible allergens associated with migraine. 

Other allergic reactions not related to diet might also be associated with a migraine attack. On the other hand substances in food may be the cause of modifications in vascular tone and bring migraine on in those so prone. Among such substances are tyramine, phenylalanine, phenolic flavonoids, alcohol, food additives (sodium nitrate, monosodium glutamate, aspartame) and caffeine. 

Another recognized trigger for migraine is hypoglycemia. Such foods as chocolate, cheese, citrus fruits, bananas, nuts, 'cured' meats, dairy products, cereals, beans, hot dogs, pizza, food additives (sodium nitrate, monosodium glutamate in Chinese restaurant food, aspartame as a sweetener), coffee, tea, cola drinks, alcoholic drinks such as red wine, beer or whisky distilled in copper stills, all may bring on a migraine attack. 

(Leira, R and Rodrigues, R (Neurological Service, Hospital General de Galicia Clinico Universitario, Santiago de Compostela)).