“Dear Pharmacist,
I suffer with migraines and have to take Maxalt 2 or 3 times a month. My girlfriend says that certain foods trigger these for her, like parmesan cheese and red wine but I don’t consume either of those. Anything else that can cause them?”
–G.L. Idaho Falls, Idaho
Answer: Many foods precipitate disabling headaches and yes, cheese and wine sit among the foods that I call “migraine makers.” Take a look at the following list and see if they are affecting you:
Caffeine: It actually goes both ways, meaning caffeine can relieve a headache for some people, but in others, it can cause one. If it helps you, then try OTC meds like Excedrin Migraine or brew a cup o’ Joe.
Nitrate or Nitrite: These are preservatives which open up tiny blood vessels increasing blood flow which may lead to pressure and pain. It’s found in processed meats because it produces that fresh pink color, and protects against Clostridium botulinum. It also imparts a ‘cured’ taste. Avoid bologna, pastrami, pepperoni, corned beef, smoked fish, bacon, sausage and hot dogs.
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate): It hides the tinny taste in canned foods, and it’s often added to Chinese food. MSG is the hardest food triggers to eliminate and having tried, I know you will drive yourself crazy trying. It’s found in soups, diet foods, bouillon cubes, peanut butter, nuts, salad dressing, frozen pizza, donuts, hot fresh baked bread and fast food. It’s disguised by many other names such as hydrolyzed protein, calcium caseinate yeast food, hydrolyzed vegetable protein and dozens more.
Tyramine: This amino acid naturally occurs when compounds in foods break down; it’s not added to foods. It’s a migraine maker because it raises blood pressure in your head, and everywhere. A small amount is found in some chocolates, but larger amounts are found in strong aged cheese like parmesan, blue, brie, etc. It’s also in beans, red wine, and dairy products like yogurt, sour cream, buttermilk. Sauces that contain vinegar deserve mention here: Salad dressing, catsup, olives, pickles, marinades, sauerkraut and soy sauce.
Alcohol: All forms including beer, wine, champagne, and other liqueurs all expand your blood vessels which may increase pressure in the head; in addition, some alcoholic beverages contain tyramine.
Nightshade Vegetables: It’s hard to pinpoint if these foods are a problem because headaches (and arthritic flare-ups) could take up to two days to become evident. Tobacco products are on the list of foods to avoid as well as tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, cherries, peppers (sweet peppers, chili peppers but not black pepper) and tomatillos.
Artificial Sweeteners: If you tend to get migraines, or are prone to anxiety or panic attacks, I recommend that you avoid foods and drinks sweetened with Splenda, NutraSweet and Sweet ‘N Low or any artificial sweetener. I can’t tell you how many people have thanked me for relieving their headaches with this trick.
Suzy Cohen, has been a licensed pharmacist for over 30 years and believes the best approach to chronic illness is a combination of natural medicine and conventional. She founded her own dietary supplement company specializing in custom-formulas, some of which have patents. With a special focus on functional medicine, thyroid health and drug nutrient depletion, Suzy is the author of several related books including Thyroid Healthy, Drug Muggers, Diabetes Without Drugs, and a nationally syndicated column.
