In my last blog I talked about Achieving Balance with Migraine Diet based on the “Heal Your Headache” diet. In this blog post I will talk about how to start Unlocking the Power of Vestibular Migraine-Friendly Foods to show the benefits for migraine sufferers.
Fruits and vegetables
Mainly includes the ones high in vitamins and antioxidants:
- Berries: such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are low in tyramine, and are a good source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Melons: such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are low in tyramine, and are a good source of hydration. They also contain vitamin C and potassium, which can help to reduce blood vessel inflammation.
- Apples: low in tyramine, and are a good source of antioxidants, dietary fiber, and other beneficial nutrients. They are also low in histamine which can be a migraine trigger for some people.
- Pineapple: contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can help to reduce inflammation, and may also help to alleviate headaches and migraines.
- Oranges: low in tyramine, and are a good source of vitamin C and other beneficial antioxidants
Whole grains
Mainly includes the ones low in tyramine content:
- Brown rice: complex carbohydrate that is low in tyramine and gluten-free. It is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.
- Quinoa: gluten-free, nutrient-dense grain that is low in tyramine and high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Oats: gluten-free, low in tyramine, and high in fiber and other beneficial nutrients. They can help to regulate blood sugar levels, and improve digestion.
- Buckwheat: a gluten-free, nutrient-dense grain that is low in tyramine, high in protein, and rich in antioxidants.
- Amaranth: gluten-free, nutrient-dense grain that is low in tyramine, high in protein, and rich in antioxidants.
Lean proteins
- Chicken: lean protein that is low in tyramine, and high in essential amino acids that can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Fish: such as salmon, tuna, and tilapia are low in tyramine, and high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve brain function.
- Tofu: plant-based protein that is low in tyramine, and high in essential amino acids. It is also a good source of iron, calcium, and other beneficial nutrients.
- Eggs: good source of lean protein, low in tyramine, and rich in essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
- Turkey: lean protein that is low in tyramine, and high in essential amino acids that can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Healthy fats
- Olive oil: a monounsaturated fat that is low in tyramine, and high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health.
- Avocado: a monounsaturated fat that is low in tyramine, and high in potassium and other beneficial nutrients. It can help to improve heart health, and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Nuts and seeds: such as almonds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds are low in tyramine, and high in healthy fats, fiber, and other beneficial nutrients. They can help to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve overall heart health.
- Flaxseed: a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall brain function.
- Coconut oil: is high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can be used as an alternative energy source by the body, it can help to improve energy levels and reduce inflammation.
Herbs and spices
- Ginger: contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow, making it a beneficial herb for reducing the severity and frequency of migraines.
- Turmeric: contains curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall brain function.
- Cayenne pepper: contains capsaicin, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, making it a beneficial spice for reducing the severity and frequency of migraines.
- Peppermint: contains menthol, which has a cooling effect and can help to reduce headaches and migraines.
- Basil: contains ursolic acid, which has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce the severity of migraines.
- Rosemary: contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help to reduce the severity and frequency of migraines.
I used the “Heal Your Headache” diet and had amazing results, got me to 6 out of 7 days of the week dizziness free so it’s worth the try. As anything else it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it depends on your triggers, lifestyle and how your body reacts.