Trigger Foods To Avoid For Migraine Patients

Salty Foods

Everyone needs salt in their diet, but too much salt causes many issues, such as high blood pressure. For migraine patients, salty foods are major triggers. This is for several reasons! Those who eat lots of salty foods, such as potato chips, will notice they feel thirsty after doing so. Feeling thirsty means they are dehydrated. Higher blood pressure also causes more migraines, and remember, consuming lots of sodium does increase blood pressure!

In addition to the sodium in salty foods, it’s also worth noting many salty foods are also highly processed. Processed food contains harmful preservatives! Nitrates are one of these preservatives and they can release nitric oxide into the bloodstream. Nitric oxide has been connected to migraines in several studies. Thus, staying away from salty, processed foods such as cured meats is key.

Artificial Sweeteners

Many people turn to artificial sweeteners so they can avoid sugar and the extra calories it contains. Certain diets also require artificial sweeteners because of the carbohydrates they have! However, the American Migraine Association, along with other credible sources, have linked artificial sweeteners to increased migraines. The most common artificial sweetener to cause migraines is aspartame. Diet sodas, those without sugar, typically contain aspartame! Many people drink too much diet soda, and the quantity is a serious contributing factor here. One soda is often tolerable, but drinking 5 or 6 in one day isn’t.

It’s also important to note aspartame has been linked to reduced dopamine and serotonin in the brain, both of which cause more migraines. Dopamine, in particular, is included in many migraine medications, showing it reduces migraines. So it stands to reason low dopamine increases them!