Avoiding Migraine Head Pain
Migraines are the third most prevalent illness in the world. The most significant characteristic is a severe and debilitating pain in the head. No single cause or trigger has been identified, but scientists have recently discovered a significant difference in the oral bacteria of people who suffer from migraines compared to those who don’t.

Researchers found people who suffer from migraine pain have a higher growth of oral bacteria that converts nitrates into nitrites. Your body converts nitrites into nitric oxide. Scientists have linked an increased amount of nitric oxide with a higher potential for suffering from migraines. Knowledge of how the nitrates are triggering migraines may lead to further interventions that address the oral and gut microbiome.

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To prevent migraine pain, eliminate processed foods high in nitrates. Foods high in nitrates include cured and processed meats, canned vegetables and packaged seafood with added nitrates used as a preservative. The number of other foods high in nitrates is lengthy and includes dark chocolate, onions, kale, honey and pistachios. Other foods that are known migraine triggers include processed sugar, aged cheeses, refined grain products, products with gluten or yeast, red wine, MSG and pickled or cured fish.

By significantly reducing nutrients needed by bad bacteria in your gut (sugar) and increasing nutrients good bacteria use to grow (fiber), you can make a positive impact on your gut microbiome. Fermented foods or a high quality probiotic can also help to strengthen your immune system any may help prevent migraine pain and GI distress.

Reference: http://msystems.asm.org/content/1/5/e00105-16.article-info