
7 Foods That Help Prevent Migraines
Migraines are among the most disabling illnesses in the world, and they can occur due to various factors like dehydration, stress, hypoglycemia, or trigger foods. However, one can include certain foods that can help avoid migraines, and the following are some of these beneficial food options:
- Almonds
Almonds are packed with magnesium, riboflavin, and vitamin E. The high magnesium content in almonds makes them a healthy dietary choice to prevent migraines. Studies suggest that consuming about 600 mg of magnesium on a daily basis reduces migraines, and some other foods rich in magnesium are quinoa, soy nuts, tofu, cashew, spinach, and tamarind. - Ginger
Ginger is a miracle root that prevents headaches due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that ginger can be as effective as medicines like sumatriptan, which is commonly used for migraine treatment. When consumed in the form of warm ginger tea, it can relieve headaches and prevent them. - Leafy greens
Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and chard are known for high B vitamins, folic acid, and magnesium content. Vitamin B is known to prevent migraines as studies conclude that deficiency in these vitamins can contribute to migraines. This is the result of homocysteine, an amino acid that has direct links to many neurological disorders like migraines. Vitamins B6, B9 (folic acid), and B12 metabolize homocysteine, helping control migraines. - Milk
Milk is abundant in calcium and vitamin D, two of the most important remedies for people who experience migraines. Patients who are supplemented with a combination of vitamin D and calcium show remarkable improvement within 6 weeks. Drinking a glass of milk as a daily routine can help avoid migraines, but if milk is not suitable for an individual, alternatives like soy milk and other fortified dairy products can be consumed to meet daily nutritional requirements. - Salmon
Salmon and fatty fish have high omega-3 fatty acid content, and salmon is also a great source of coenzyme Q10 and vitamin D. These compounds prevent migraines by keeping the brain well-nourished. Other food sources of omega-3 fats that can help avoid migraines are flaxseed, avocados, olive oil, and walnuts. Preventing migraines also includes consuming fewer foods with omega-6 fatty acids. - Feverfew tea
Feverfew is a medicinal herb that grows throughout North America. It has been known to relieve headaches and is used as a preventive treatment for migraines due to the presence of parthenolide. However, feverfew is also known to cause oral irritation to some, so it’s best to try it out for suitability. - Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in copper, manganese, niacin, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C, which makes them nutrient-rich. Among the top foods that can help avoid migraines, sweet potatoes are anti-inflammatory, which reduces a critical trigger of migraines.