Targeting migraine triggers

If the pattern of your attacks of migraine suggests that you are sensitive to triggers that you can easily avoid, your doctor may help you modify your lifestyle. Identifying and controlling factors that may provoke your migraine is obviously very important. Not all migraines have the same provoking factors.

• Diet: Eat a healthy diet, eat at predictable times and don't skip meals. A diary of the foods that you eat can help you and your doctor identify associations between your diet and migraine. You probably will not have to severely restrict your diet, but you should stay away from foods or additives that you think may trigger headaches. Your physician may recommend avoiding alcohol, especially red wine; foods with monosodium glutamate (MSG); foods that contain tyramine, such as aged cheeses; and preserved meats with nitrates and nitrites.
• Sleep: Be consistent in your sleep patterns. Maintain a regular bedtime, and try to wake up at the same time each morning. Remember that too much or too little sleep can trigger a migraine attack.
• Stress and anxiety: A variety of relaxation techniques can help you manage your body's response to life's daily pressures, for example yoga and meditation. Learn to pace your activities. Try to set aside time each day to sit quietly with your eyes closed, let your muscles relax, and give your mind a break. Try not to worry about stress that is beyond your control. Regular physical activity can also help keep you on an even keel.
• Give up smoking: Migraine triggers include smoking. Giving up will also have countless other positive effects on your life including reduced risk of disease.