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Some foods in our diet can trigger
off migraine attacks in susceptible individuals. Other foods can
bring an attack on through an allergic reaction. A certain number of
foods such as citrus fruits, tea, coffee, pork, chocolate, milk,
nuts, vegetables and cola drinks have been cited as possible
allergens associated with migraine.
Other allergic reactions not related
to diet might also be associated with a migraine attack. On the other
hand substances in food may be the cause of modifications in vascular
tone and bring migraine on in those so prone. Among such substances
are tyramine, phenylalanine, phenolic flavonoids, alcohol, food
additives (sodium nitrate, monosodium glutamate, aspartame) and
caffeine.
Another recognized trigger for
migraine is hypoglycemia. Such foods as chocolate, cheese, citrus
fruits, bananas, nuts, 'cured' meats, dairy products, cereals, beans,
hot dogs, pizza, food additives (sodium nitrate, monosodium glutamate
in Chinese restaurant food, aspartame as a sweetener), coffee, tea,
cola drinks, alcoholic drinks such as red wine, beer or whisky
distilled in copper stills, all may bring on a migraine attack.
(Leira, R and
Rodrigues, R (Neurological Service, Hospital General de Galicia
Clinico Universitario, Santiago de Compostela)).
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