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