While light sensitivity, stress, changes in wake-sleep patterns, and hormonal shifts in women are just a few factors that may be triggering your migraines. Another likely contributor may be your favorite foods.
According to the World Health Organization, the recurrent disorder is prevalent in about 50 percent of adults. Other experts report that more than 37 million people suffer from migraines — estimating that 13 percent of adults in the U.S. population have migraines, and 2-3 million migraines suffered are chronic.
Among those suffering from migraines experience symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and throbbing pulsating pain research reveals that the following (among others) are impacted the most:
- Women (18 percent of women compared to 6 percent of men)
- People between the ages of 35 and 55
- Lowest income groups
So what foods are placing you at risk?
Alcohol — One out of 3 people who have migraines say alcohol is a trigger, research says.
MSG — A food additive (used to enhance flavor) contained in a wide range of processed, packaged, and restaurant foods, beverages, and condiments. Studies show it causes migraines in up to 15% of people.