Here are some causes are known to precipitate migraines and headaches: Migraine Headache Hereditary Stress Fatigue Tiredness Exercise Poor posture Sleep deprivation Caffeine Bright lights Alcohol Head trauma Drugs Infection Food allergy Menstruation Eye strain Oral contraceptives Sinusitus Hormonal changes Low blood sugar Head injury Chemicals that trigger migraines Here are some chemicals in foods that trigger migraine headaches: 1 . Tyramine and other amines, including phenylethylamine and histamine Patients with dietary migraine are sensitive to tyramine-containing foods. Tyramine leads to dilation of the nerves in the brain, resulting in a rush of blood, which tiggers the migraine. Tyramine is found in: *. Cheese, especially the aged, strong and Cheddar varieties *. Beer *. Wine *. Pickled herring *. Chicken liver *. Yeast *. Coffee *. Broad beans pods *. Citrus and canned figs *. Bananas *. Eggs *. Oranges *. Spinach and tomatoes Phenylethylamine is found in chocolates; octopamine in citrus fruits; his tamine in red wine and beers.

2 . Chocolate-induced migraine Phenylethylamine, theobromine and caffeine are chemical triggers present in chocolate. They may causea headache by altering the cerebral blood flow. 3 . Caffeine withdrawal headache Caffeine causes constriction of the cerebral blood vessels. When the caffeine intake is interrupted, the blood vessels dilate and the increase in cerebral blood flow results in headache. 4 . Alcoholic beverages and migraine Alcohol per se is probably not a migraine-provoking chemical, but the tyramine and histamine contained in many red wines and beers are said to provoke migraines. Some believe grapes that are organically grown and wines that are free of sulfites are less likely to trigger headaches. Stress may act as a secondary trigger in some situations. A person who suffers from migraines and is exposed to a stressful and tiring work environment may complain of an inability to tolerate wine, whereas the same person on a relaxing vacation may drink and enjoy the same wine without suffering headaches.

5 . Nitrates, Nitrites headache Hot dogs and other cured meats like bacon, ham and salami contain nitrates. Beets, lettuce, celery, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and potatoes contribute the largest portion of nitrate to our daily diet. Nitrites are formed by the reduction of nitrates and are responsible for headaches, and flushing of the face and neck. Nitrites can cause low oxygen levels in the blood, which imparts a slate grey colour to the skin. 6 . Aspartame triggered migraine If you already have a headache, and if you consume anything containing aspartame (artificial sweeteners likeSugar Free, Diet Coke, Equal), you might get a migraine. 7 . Ice cream headache Such a pain is generally located above the forehead or behind the eyes. It may be caused due to a reflex constriction of blood vessels around the head, resulting in a headache. 8 . Food allergy and migraine Various foods, like cow's milk, eggs and wheat cereal, in addition to amine-rich chocolate, orange and cheese may provoke headache in people susceptible to migraines. 9 . Monosodium glutamate or the Chinese Restaurant Syndrome Also known as MSG, this has been linked to the frequent use of MSG in some Asian foods. There are reports of flushing, tingling, dizziness and headache. It isalso generally found in frozen foods, canned soups, salad dressings, processed meats, sauces and snack foods. 10 . Hunger and hypoglycemic headaches Fasting and consequent low blood sugar levels may trigger headaches in patients with migraine. Avoid consuming anything high or rich in carbohydrates. Else, it could result in a rapid secretion of insulin, thus lowering blood sugar levels.

Great topic for migraine sufferers and non-migraine sufferers too. Very informative. Thanks for sharing!

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