22/12/2025
Foods to AVOID if You Have Migraine
Certain foods can trigger or worsen migraine attacks, especially if you’re sensitive to them:
Common Migraine Triggers
• Aged cheese (cheddar, blue cheese, parmesan)
→ contains tyramine, a known migraine trigger
• Processed & cured meats (hotdogs, bacon, ham, salami)
→ high in nitrates
• Chocolate (for some people)
• Alcohol, especially red wine
• Caffeinated drinks (too much coffee, energy drinks)
→ sudden caffeine withdrawal can also trigger migraines
• MSG (monosodium glutamate)
→ found in some instant noodles, fast food, flavored chips
• Artificial sweeteners (aspartame)
• Very salty foods
• Fermented foods (pickles, kimchi, soy sauce) for sensitive individuals
• Skipping meals or fasting
→ low blood sugar can trigger migraine
Important: Migraine triggers are individual. What triggers others may not trigger you.
Foods That May HELP Prevent Migraine
• Water (hydration is very important)
• Fresh fruits & vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins (fish, chicken, eggs)
• Magnesium-rich foods
(spinach, bananas, nuts, seeds)
• Regular meals
Is Migraine Covered by HMO?
YES, but with conditions
Most HMOs cover migraine-related care, such as:
• Outpatient consultation with a doctor (GP or Neurologist)
• Emergency Room (ER) visits if migraine is severe
• Diagnostic tests (if medically indicated)
• Prescribed medications (depending on your plan)
Coverage depends on:
• Your HMO plan type
• Pre-existing condition clause
• Doctor’s medical assessment
• Approved benefit limits
Severe migraine cases (with vomiting, vision loss, numbness, or very high BP) are usually treated as medical emergencies and may be covered in the ER.
When to Go to the ER?
Seek immediate care if migraine comes with:
• Sudden severe headache (“worst headache ever”)
• Vision problems
• Weakness or numbness
• Difficulty speaking
• Persistent vomiting
• Very high blood pressure
