Nutrition Triggers Migraine Headache: A Cross-Sectional Study in Southern Iran about the Nutrition Habits in Migraine Patients

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Student Research Committee, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.

2 Associate Professor of Neurology, School of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Migraine is recognized as the second most disabling disease in the world, accompanied by Bell's palsy, hearing loss, and cerebral nerve paralysis. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary triggers on the exacerbation of migraine headaches for the first time in Hormozgan province, Iran. Method: Individuals were randomly selected from the population of migraine patients referred to the hospital of Shahid Mohammadi in Bandar Abbas (located in southern Iran). A two-stage questionnaire was used, including demographic information and dietary habits of individuals with migraines, containing six types of drinks, 11 types of food, and a fasting diet. Results: This study examined 200 individuals, including 66.5% women and 33.5% men. The age range of participants was from 13 to 66 years old, and the mean age of the study population was 31.42 years. Fasting showed the highest headache exacerbation, followed by coffee, alcoholic beverages, and high-fat foods. The least stimulating type can be attributed to non-alcoholic carbonated and soft drinks. Nuts and walnuts (good sources of omega-3) seemed to be the least irritating among the population, although citrus fruits were not significantly different. Conclusion: Based on the results, all migraine patients should avoid fasting strictly, keep their sugar levels balanced, and prevent excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine. The results of subsequent studies will clarify the effect of these two substances on headaches.

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References

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Journal of Nutrition,Fasting and Health
Volume 12, Issue 2
June 2024
Pages 99-105

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 October 2023
  • Accept Date: 07 January 2024

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