7 Foods That Reduce the Risk of Migraine Attacks
Migraine is a type of neurological disorder that causes recurring headaches. The headaches can range from moderate to throbbing or pulsating pain on either side of your head. Severe migraine can also cause nausea and weakness. While there are triggers for migraines, it can be greatly controlled by altering food habits. Following are some of the best foods that can help control the severity of migraines.
1. Collard Greens
Some examples of collard greens like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower. These foods are known to be “neutral, ” which means they do not trigger migraine attacks even in the most food-sensitive of patients. Instead, collard greens have anti-inflammatory nutrients such as magnesium that can further help effectively manage migraine symptoms.
2. Shrimp
This seafood is an excellent source of astaxanthin, an antioxidant that helps fight inflammation. Inflammation is one of the risk factors that can increase the risk of suffering from a migraine attack. Shrimp is also rich in vitamins and minerals that can help reduce the instances of migraine attacks.
3. Seeds and Nuts
Sometimes, a migraine attack can be triggered by constipation. Pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, and cashews are not only rich in magnesium but also good sources of carbohydrates and healthy fiber. A healthy dose of these nuts and seeds can help manage constipation and migraine attacks associated with the same.
4. Watermelon
Dehydration is another risk factor that can trigger migraine. Fruits such as watermelon are excellent sources of water and glucose to keep one hydrated and energized for longer periods. In fact, watermelon has more than 90 percent water content. A bowl of watermelon can help keep migraine symptoms at bay. Other fruits that can help with dehydration include oranges, grapes, muskmelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe.
5. Dark Chocolate
Some people may experience migraine due to caffeine withdrawal. Health experts suggest that one and a half ounce of serving of dark chocolate contains 40 to 50 milligrams of caffeine, which is equivalent to a cup of green tea or a regular brewed coffee. Dark chocolate is also a good source of magnesium that can decrease inflammation and subequently the instances of migraine attacks.
6. Carrots and sweet potatoes
These vegetables contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and, thereby, keep migraine symptoms at bay. Carrots and sweet potatoes are also rich in other nutrients like vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C, copper, manganese, pantothenic acid, and phosphorous. All these nutrients can help reduce the severity and duration of a migraine attack.
7. Salmon
Salmon is one of the best foods to effectively treat migraine symptoms. Like all other fresh water fish, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Apart from reducing inflammation, it helps in reducing lowering blood pressure, which is yet another major risk factor of migraine. Salmon also abundantly contains riboflavin that can also help in managing migraine symptoms.