Triggers and patterns

Foods very often trigger migraine headaches. Below is a list of the most common food triggers. Keep them in mind the next time you suffer a headache. Does eating or drinking any of these coincide with your headaches?

red wine or white wine bananas
other alcohol citrus fruits
chocolate monosodium glutamate (MSG)
cheese freshly baked bread (yeast)
pickled foods coffee, tea, cola
nuts aspartame (food or drink)

Think back to a previous headache. Was it a particularly stressful day or was there a sudden change in the weather? Using the following chart, check off some of the factors that could be involved in the onset of your headaches. You may see a pattern.

Identify your triggers

Stressful or hectic days, including long hours, intense deadlines
Other emotions, such as depression, anxiety, let down, frustration — and even pleasant excitement
Poor posture and tense jaws
Foods (see list above)
Alcoholic beverages
Odors

If you think you may suffer from any of these types of headaches, PRINT THIS PAGE and ask your doctor if Excedrin^® products are right for you.