Migraines can be triggered by various factors, and food is a common trigger for many people. In Chinese medicine, food is considered the first pillar of health because it’s something that each individual has control over each day. So paying attention to the foods that help you either feel better or trigger symptoms is an important part of self-care. Chinese medicine focuses on creating treatment plans for a person’s individual pattern of disharmony, and food is a huge part of the plan of care. Food triggers can vary from person to person, and what affects one individual may not affect another. However, some common food triggers for migraines include:
- Tyramine-containing foods: Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound that can trigger migraines in some people. Foods high in tyramine include aged cheeses, smoked fish, cured meats, and certain types of beans.
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG): MSG is a food additive often used to enhance flavor. It can be found in restaurant dishes, processed foods, and some Asian cuisines. Some people are sensitive to MSG and may experience migraines as a result.
- Caffeine: While some people find relief from migraines by consuming caffeine, others may experience migraines as a result of caffeine withdrawal or overconsumption. It’s essential to maintain a consistent level of caffeine intake.
- Alcohol: Certain types of alcohol, particularly red wine, beer, and dark spirits, can trigger migraines in some individuals. Alcohol creates an environment of Damp Heat according to Chinese Medicine. Alcohol can also lead to dehydration, which is another migraine trigger.
- Chocolate: Some people are sensitive to substances in chocolate, such as phenylethylamine and tyramine, which can contribute to migraines.
- Artificial sweeteners: Aspartame and other artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas, sugar-free products, and some chewing gums have been reported as migraine triggers for some individuals.
- Nitrate-containing foods: Processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats often contain nitrates, which can be migraine triggers for some people.
- Dairy products: In Chinese Medicine all dairy products create a condition of Phlegm, which is a form of damp stagnation, in the body. Aged cheeses, in particular, may contain tyramine, and some people may be sensitive to dairy, leading to migraines.
- Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits can be triggers for some people.
- Nuts and seeds: Peanuts, cashews, and certain seeds may contain compounds that trigger migraines in some individuals.
It’s helpful for individuals who suffer from migraines to identify their specific triggers through a process of trial and error. This information also helps your acupuncturist provide personalized guidance and support. Keeping a food diary, where you record what you eat and any subsequent migraine episodes, can be helpful in identifying patterns and potential triggers.
Vitalichi 