Migraine is a very common neurological disease that causes utter distress if not managed properly and on time. Migraine can cause a variety of symptoms and each person can get an altogether different symptom. The most common symptom is a throbbing, pulsing headache on one side of the head. A migraine might last a few hours or days at times. Sadly migraines are likely get worse with physical activity, lights, sounds or smells. Most of the time migraine is accompanied by aura, which is reversible. Seeing bright flashing dots. Or blind spot in the vision are common. Few people also experience tinnitus during migraine.
In Ayurveda treatment for Migraine is stated as Ardhavabedhaka, which defines one-sided pain which is intense and piercing in nature. Migraine is generally caused due to aggravated Vata and Pitta Dosha due to which patient may have intense pain, experience irritation and nausea. Migraine is also held responsible due to high acidity in the stomach and weak digestion power. It is seen that people with a troubled gut have more frequent and longer migraine pain.
Is there any connection between the types of food you eat and migraine attacks? Recent studies suggest that certain chemicals present in the food can trigger a migraine pain. Although there is no defined list that one can follow. However on people’s claims certain foods can be categorized as migraine triggering food.
- Chocolate, possibly due to the chemical beta-phenylalanine
- Food made from refine flour or Maida.
- Factory processed breads and food, because they contain MSG ( Monosodium Glutamate)
- Nitrate-rich food, such as cured meats and fried animal protein items
- Artificial juices and cold drinks and beverages.
- Coffee and alcoholic drinks
So, how to find out which foods suit us and which food trigger migraine attacks? Since all foods affects migraine suffers differently, it is best to examine the eating habit and consumption of food closely to read the effects. By slowly eliminating foods that cause the migraine trigger, one can recognise the foods that triggers the migraine attack and stay away from them. Maintaining a food diary for both unhealthy food and healthy food for migraine can be very helpful as a practical solution for keeping migraine at bay.