Cutting one type of unsuspecting food out of your diet might cause your migraines to improve dramatically
A migraine can often render people out of action with its crippling effects. And, there’s a common food you might be eating that’s unknowingly making things worse.
According to the NHS, a migraine usually feels like a “very bad headache” with one crucial difference. Unlike a typical headache, the “throbbing” sensation of a migraine can be felt on just one side of the head.
You may get other symptoms just before a migraine such as tiredness, specific food cravings, thirst, mood swings and stiffness in your neck. You may also get warning signs you’re about to have a migraine, known as an aura that presents flashes of light, blind spots, and other vision changes.
Migraines usually last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, as per NHS guidance. It is not known what causes migraines specifically, but there are certain triggers.
One thing people who regularly suffer should know is that diet can play an important role in how long and often a migraine can occur. There are a few foods that those who struggle should consider limiting.
One common item found in many homes is bananas. These yellow fruits may trigger migraines in people who are sensitive to tyramine, a naturally occurring chemical that’s found in the fruit – and has been linked to causing migraine sufferers to experience an attack.
Tyramine has a chemical structure that our bodies break down using enzymes called monoamine oxidase (MAO). When our bodies do not produce enough of this on their own, and any tyramine-rich foods are consumed, they can struggle, which may result in a headache.
The tyramine content increases as bananas ripen, especially if they are overripe. So, people who suffer quite badly should avoid the common fruit – especially if it is more yellow than green.
It can help to keep a migraine diary to help you work out what might trigger your migraines. If you are considering this, the Migraine Trust has some advice about what to make notes of.
Most people find their migraines slowly get better as they get older. If you are struggling, or your migraines are severe or getting worse, or lasting longer than usual, then see your GP.