Diet and nutrition play an important role in keeping one healthy. Just with any illness, a well-planned meal can help your immune system get better and deal with the sickness. Migraines are tricky and have no particular treatment. However, some foods can act as triggers, and some foods can help you feel better. To help you, here are foods that you should eat and avoid to manage migraines.

1. Cheese
Aged cheese contains a compound called tyramine that can act as a trigger for migraine patients. As the cheese ages for longer, the content of tyramine increases, making it more and more of a trigger food. Therefore, one must not certain types of cheese, such as cheddar, gruyere, manchego, brie, blue, and parmesan.

2. Whole grains
Whole grains are a great nutrient-rich food that should be included in everyone’s diet! But what makes it especially good for migraine patients is that these grains contain complex carbohydrates. Complex carbs increase glycogen stores in the brain, which helps in reducing headaches. Grains like quinoa, barley, and amaranth are great sources of complex carbs. There are several healthy ways to include these ingredients in your food, and you wouldn’t be sorry for making this change!

3. Alcohol
Wine contains sulfites and flavonoids that act as a trigger and should be avoided at all costs when you are prone to migraines. Also, drinking alcohol makes you urinate more than usual, leaving your body dehydrated. Lack of water can lead to headaches, especially if one is a migraine patient, becoming a constant issue.

4. Vegetables
Fresh foods like vegetables cooked at home are free of preservatives that could induce a migraine. Moreover, vegetables contain several vitamins and minerals that are essential to keep your body from falling ill. As soon as the immune system is compromised, it paves the way for several health conditions, and headaches are just one of them. Apart from that, vegetables like cucumbers, peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, and swiss chard are all high in water content. This keeps your body hydrated, an absolute essential when to avoid headaches.

5. Chocolate
Chocolate contains both caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine that act as a headache-inducing component in some people. It also contains nitrates and tyramines, other headache-inducing compounds. Now, it is not to say that you cannot eat chocolate at all, but it is always wise to consume chocolates in moderation without it turning into a migraine hazard.

6. Fish and shellfish
According to research, fish like tuna and salmon contain magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B12, and coenzyme Q10, which may help in the prevention of migraines. Apart from this, fish contains omega-3s that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing flare-ups in the body. Even shellfish like shrimp is a great addition to the diet. Be sure to know where to buy your produce from, as bad fish can lead to other health issues. Make sure the produce is fresh and free of toxins.