Headache and diet

According to some studies, what we eat and when we eat it plays a significant role in headache and migraine. Overactivity of the arteries in the head has been found to cause pain, and highly fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause these vessels to spasm in susceptible people. Caffeine, a compound commonly found in coffee, tea and chocolate, has been linked to headache. Researchers believe that people who are prone to headaches and migraines may be sensitive to the effects of caffeine. Limiting drinks or foods containing caffeine is generally recommended.

Food additives and naturally occurring food chemicals can also trigger a headache in some people. If you suspect that your headaches may be linked to your diet, it is important to seek medical attention so that your sensitivities can be properly diagnosed.

It is also a good idea to keep a ‘food diary’ of foods and liquids ingested before and after an attack of headache or migraine.

Arteries are affected by insulin

Most cells in the body need to burn glucose with oxygen to produce energy. The digestive system breaks down the carbohydrates we eat into glucose. This simple sugar is then transported to each cell via the bloodstream. A gland of the endocrine system called the pancreas secretes a hormone called insulin, which helps the glucose to migrate from the blood into the cells. If the food eaten is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, then the pancreas has to respond with a strong hit of insulin. The sudden drop in blood sugars seems to encourage the arteries in the head to constrict.

During a migraine, visual disturbances such as the characteristic aura may be due to this arterial constriction.

Hypoglycaemia means low blood sugar

If you skip a meal, your blood sugar level may drop too low for your brain to function comfortably. In order to boost the amount of glucose to the brain, the body releases hormones which may also cause an increase in blood pressure because they narrow the arteries. This narrowing of the arteries can contribute to headaches and migraines.

Caffeine withdrawal and headaches

The chemical adenosine helps to regulate the diameter of the arteries inside the head. Caffeine is structurally similar to adenosine and counteracts it by constricting (tightening) the arteries. To compensate, your body produces even more adenosine. When you stop consuming caffeine, such as during sleep, the high levels of adenosine will make your arteries dilate. The excessive blood flow then causes a throbbing headache, which only a cup of coffee can ease.

Foods can cause headaches

Some people who suffer from frequent headaches or migraines may be sensitive to certain food chemicals, both naturally occurring and artificial. Common food chemicals that have been found to affect the arteries of the head include:

• Monosodium glutamate (MSG) – a common flavour enhancer, but also found naturally in such foods as tomatoes.
• Nitrites – these preservatives are found in processed meats and some cheeses.
• Amines – common compounds found in a wide range of foods, including spinach, tomato, potato, small whole fish, tuna, liver, dark chocolate and alcoholic drinks.

Treatment for headaches

It can be challenging to discover the exact food or foods that may contribute to headache and migraine. It is best to consult healthcare professionals to ensure an appropriate diagnosis and course of action. Generally speaking, treatment can include:

• Blood sugar headaches – avoid high glycaemic index foods, or at least combine them with low glycaemic foods to lessen their impact. Keep your blood sugar levels constant by eating regularly.
• Caffeine headaches – don’t quit suddenly or else the withdrawal will cause severe headaches. Your body needs time to adapt. Gradually reduce the amount of caffeine you consume over a period of days, weeks or even months.
• Food chemicals – a health professional will devise ways to test your sensitivities to various foods. It is important not to self-diagnose, because you may restrict your eating unnecessarily, or fail to find all of your dietary triggers.

Where to get help

• Your doctor
• Dietitians Association of Australia Tel. (02) 6163 5200
• Naturopath

Things to remember

• Large fluctuations in blood sugar levels can cause the arteries to spasm, leading to headache.
• Consuming a lot of caffeine regularly can cause withdrawal headaches in susceptible people.
• Sensitivities to food chemicals need to be assessed by a qualified health practitioner.

You might also be interested in:

• Caffeine.
  
• Headache - different types.
  
• Headache - migraines.
  
• Headache - some causes.
  
• Headache - treatment options.
  
• Headache and stress.
  

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Headache.com.au

Fact sheet currently being reviewed.
Last reviewed: April 2011

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Diet can trigger headaches and migraines in susceptible people. Fluctuating blood sugar levels, caffeine withdrawal, naturally occurring food chemicals and food additives may all be factors. Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) may also trigger a headache or migraine. Chemicals in food such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), nitrites and amines are also possible triggers. Treatments vary according to the cause.

Content on this website is provided for education and information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your qualified health professional. Content has been prepared for Victorian residence and wider Australian audiences, and was accurate at the time of publication. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users are urged to always seek advice from a qualified health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.

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