What to Avoid and What to Eat
Managing migraines can be hard, and it gets even trickier when you have diabetes. What you eat is really important for keeping both conditions under control. Some foods can trigger migraines and also mess with your blood sugar, making them a double problem for people with diabetic migraines. We'll look at the worst foods to avoid, suggest some of the best foods to eat and talk about treatment options to help manage both diabetes and migraines effectively.
Worst Foods for Diabetic Migraines
Sugary Snacks and Desserts
Foods high in sugar can cause blood sugar spikes, which may trigger migraines. These include candies, cakes, cookies and sugary drinks. For diabetics, the rapid increase in blood sugar can lead to complications and trigger a migraine attack.
Processed Foods
Many processed foods contain additives, preservatives and high levels of sodium, which can trigger migraines. These foods can also disrupt blood sugar control, making them particularly harmful to those with diabetes.
While type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the most common forms, diabetes during pregnancy can occur. This is called gestational diabetes. Find out more here.
Artificial Sweeteners
Some artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, can trigger migraines in sensitive individuals. For diabetics, it's important to choose sweeteners carefully to avoid both migraine and blood sugar issues.
Aged Cheeses
Aged cheeses like cheddar, blue cheese and Parmesan contain tyramine, a compound that can trigger migraines. These cheeses are also high in fat, which can complicate blood sugar management.
Salty Foods
Foods high in salt can lead to dehydration, a common migraine trigger. For diabetics, high sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other complications.
Fatty and Fried Foods
These foods can cause a spike in blood sugar and also contribute to weight gain, increasing the risk of both diabetes complications and migraines.
Best Foods for Diabetic Migraines
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
These are rich in vitamins and minerals and low in sugar. They help keep blood sugar levels stable and provide essential nutrients to help prevent migraines.
Whole Grains
Foods like oats, brown rice and whole wheat bread are high in fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides long-lasting energy, reducing the likelihood of a migraine.
Lean Proteins
Chicken, turkey, fish and plant-based proteins like beans and lentils are great options. They help keep blood sugar levels stable and provide the necessary protein without triggering migraines.
Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, fiber and protein. They help stabilize blood sugar and provide nutrients that may help prevent migraines.
Hydrating Foods
Cucumbers, watermelon and other water-rich foods help keep you hydrated, which is crucial for preventing migraines.
Treatment Options
For those dealing with diabetic migraines, it's important to have a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both conditions. Here are some treatment options:
- Medications: There are medications specifically designed to prevent or treat migraines. For diabetics, it's important to choose medications that don't interfere with blood sugar control.
- Dietary management: Working with a dietitian to create a meal plan that supports both blood sugar control and migraine prevention can be very effective.
- Regular exercise: Moderate exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, improve blood sugar control and reduce the frequency of migraines.
- Stress management: Stress is a common trigger for both migraines and blood sugar fluctuations. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing and yoga can help manage stress levels.
- Blood sugar monitoring: Keeping close tabs on your blood sugar levels can help you avoid spikes and crashes that may trigger migraines.
Diet Dangers
Managing diabetic migraines requires careful attention to both diet and lifestyle. By avoiding trigger foods and incorporating more of the best foods into your diet, you can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines while also keeping your diabetes under control. Working with your healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan is key to managing both conditions effectively.
Read on to learn about which drinks you should avoid with diabetic migraines.
