Unlike warnings on medications, you will rarely find the side-effects of foods printed on its packaging. Of course, the allergy warnings are there, but what they don’t often warn you about is the trigger of migraines. Despite the research, determining which specific foods trigger migraines has not been successful. But scientists have concluded that its combination with other factors does have a role to play. And in this article, we are going to talk about five foods that trigger migraines.

Coffee
If you bolt toward that morning cup of joe, here’s something you should know. Sure, it helps alleviate your senses and even helps stay awake longer than usual, but research suggests that caffeine narrows the blood vessels surrounding your brain. If you stop consuming it, they expand once again, which can cause pain. So, consider restricting the number of cups you chug in a day if you want to avoid migraine headaches.

Cheese
Cheese lovers will hate this news, but it’s true. Studies show that aged and fermented cheese products can be foods that trigger migraines. The trigger is the substance tyramine found in such foods. Studies suggest it causes nerve cells in the brain to release the chemical norepinephrine. The high levels of both tyramine and chemicals in the brain trigger migraines.

Red Wine
It’s a no brainer that you are in for the worst hangover after an alcohol-ridden night out with friends. But the same thing can happen even if you drink a glass of red wine at home. The reason? Grape skins contain histamine, and red wine is made from a whole grape. Even your immune system produces histamine to fight off allergies, but excess histamine sensitivity can make you more susceptible to migraines.

Certain Desserts
There’s a chance that your favorite dessert is responsible for your pain. And it’s not just desserts, foods like bread can induce headaches. The trigger is the same as the one found inside cheeses and some wines, i.e., tyramine. The combination of yeast with other trigger foods such as dairy and wheat can give your brain that dreaded migraine.

Processed Meat
Hot dogs, ham, and bacon; words like these get our mouths watering. But truth be told, even these juicy processed and cured meats can take a toll on your brain. They contain chemicals known as nitrates and nitrites. Once these tender meats are inside your system, its chemicals cause your blood vessels to swell, leading to a not so tender migraine.
These are just some of the food that triggers migraines. There are a whole bunch of other triggers too. So, it is vital to get in touch with a specialist who can help point out the source of your symptoms. While you’re at it, don’t forget to drink plenty of water.