Cheese
Aged cheeses are the biggest offenders when it comes to cheese. Blue cheese, brie, cheddar, feta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Swiss are all cheeses commonly implicated in causing headaches. Aged cheeses contain tyramine, an amino acid that is linked to migraines especially. Eat these cheeses in moderation, or avoid them completely if they cause problems for you personally.Red Wine
Red wine contains large amounts of tyramine, and there are some other liquors that contain varying amounts. Again, tyramine is an amino acid that can trigger headaches, but it isn’t the only problem. Researchers aren't entirely certain why alcohol contributes to headaches, but it does appear that in some cases it can trigger them.Cold Cuts
Processed meats often contain tyramine, but they also contain additives called nitrates or nitrites. These are other chemicals that can trigger headaches through increased blood flow to the brain in some people. Headaches caused by food additives are usually felt on both sides of the head, in contrast to a classic migraine, which typically strikes one side at a time.Skipping Meals
The link between meals and headaches is not always obvious. In fact, you may experience a headache before you realize you’re hungry. As your blood sugar drops, you may be one of many people who experience headaches as a result. The best way to cure this problem is to eat meals at regular intervals, and try to eat a balanced diet. Shocking, I know.Caffeine
In many people, caffeine can actually help a headache. Headache medications such as Excedrin or Fioricet actually contain caffeine and are quite effective. If you use a large amount of caffeine in your diet already, however, don’t try to cut back abruptly. Caffeine withdrawal is a major trigger for headaches.Sources:
”Diet and Headache.” National Headache Foundation. Accessed: May 30, 2009. http://www.headaches.org/education/Headache_Topic_Sheets/Diet_and_Headache_-_Foods
Graham A.W., Schultz T.K., Mayo-Smith M.F., Ries R.K. & Wilford, B.B. (eds.) “Caffeine pharmacology and clinical effects.” Principles of Addiction Medicine, Third Edition (pp. 193-224). Chevy Chase, MD: American Society of Addiction)
