Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders known to affect over 28 million people in the United States alone! Diet plays an important role in reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks and its associated symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Therefore, it is essential for you t intake a balanced migraine diet and eliminate all such food stuffs that can trigger a migraine headache and take those that help combat migraines.

Foods that should be eliminated from a migraine diet:

Avoid foods that contain monosodium glutamate: This is a popular taste enhancer found in Chinese foods. It is also present in various commercial products such as chips, soups, frozen foods, soy sauce and sold dressings.

Chocolates and cheese: These are considered to be some of the most common triggers of migraines and must be avoided by migraine sufferers.

Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol, red wine, beer and champagne can trigger a migraine attack and must be avoided.

Processed foods: canned foods, processed or frozen meats, pickles etc, should be avoided.

Citrus fruits: If you are allergic to citrus fruits such as oranges, grapes, lemons etc. you must not consume them as they can trigger migraines.

Foods containing aspartame and tartrazine should be avoided.

Marinated foods such as chicken, meats and cottage cheese should be avoided.

List of common foods that should not be taken:

• Bananas
• Aged cheese
• Avocados
• Nuts
• Plums
• Citrus fruits
• Chocolate
• Raisins
• Fresh bread
• Vinegar

Foods that must be included in a migraine diet:

Magnesium rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, wheat germ, seafood and beans must be taken regularly.

Calcium rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, dairy products and peas or broccoli should be taken.

Chamomile, peppermint, ginger and rosemary can be taken as teas to help deal with migraine attacks.

Protein rich foods such as fish, chicken, beans, peas, milk and lentils are good for migraines.

Include niacin and vitamin B6 in your daily migraine diet.

Garlic, cloves, pepper, basil and cinnamon are spices that can be used while cooking.