Foods that Hurt
Foods that Hurt
Many traditional migraine food triggers are staples of the holiday table. Even though that meat and cheese platter might look appetizing, it’ s best to steer clear. To minimize the chances of exacerbating your condition, stick to foods that are fresh and free of additives. Your head will thank you. Below are the top trigger foods to avoid this holiday season( and any time of year).
Aged cheeses |
Processed meats |
Peanuts |
Pickled foods |
Alcohol, especially red wine |
Bread and crackers containing cheese |
Sourdough bread |
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Lentils, peas and broad beans |
Chicken livers |
Source: The National Headache Foundation ing, you should say no. Sometimes you just have to be more assertive, knowing there’ s too big a price to pay.”
4. Explore supplements. Most chronic migraine and headache sufferers are quite familiar with over-the-counter pain relievers, but Dr. Rederich suggests making a trip to your local health food store for lesser-known alternative remedies.
“ There are about a half-dozen supplements that will make it harder to get a headache,” Dr. Rederich says.“ I ask people to take these four things: vitamin B2( riboflavin), magnesium, the herb feverfew and co-enzyme Q10.”
5. Improve your lifestyle. Dr. Cohen says there are four basic healthy behaviors all migraineurs should embrace— eating, drinking, sleeping and exercising— and each can be thrown for a loop during the hectic holiday season.
No matter what else is going on, you should eat regular meals throughout the day, including lots of green, leafy vegetables and a good amount of lean protein, Dr. Cohen says. And don’ t forget to drink plenty of fluids.
“ Drinking sufficient fluids, 2 to 3 liters per day, and avoiding caffeine, a potent migraine trigger, can make a significant difference,” he says.
Holiday stress can wreak havoc on sleep patterns, as well. Don’ t let travel or late-night holiday revelry interfere with your sleep schedule— go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning.
Finally, resist the temptation to put your physical activity routine in the deep freeze once colder temperatures hit. You can reduce migraine frequency and severity by doing aerobic exercise at least three times a week for 30 to 40 minutes each session, Dr. Cohen says.
The holidays are a very special and stressful time of year, but you don’ t have to accept migraines and headaches as an inevitable“ gift” of the season. If you learn how to avoid trigger foods and situations, you’ ll enjoy a much happier holiday. HW
www. headwisemag. org | National Headache Foundation 17