DEAR Dr. Fritz,
Hi, Doc. I hope everything is fine. Please call me Despacito of Tugbok. I have been getting migraine every now and then, which rendered me useless most of the time. I have heard that there are food that can trigger migraine. Is this true? If so, please tell me. I am willing to get rid of them even if they are my favorite.
Thank you and more power to you.
Despacito of Tugbok
Dear Despacito of Tugbok,
First of all, I admire your determination to fight migraine - that even if the food will be your favorite, you’re willing to get rid of it. That's the spirit and I hope you will be true to your words - down to the last letter of your promise.
Remember that while the food that triggers migraine could be different for everybody, the most common food culprits out there are those that have tyramine or phenylethylamine in them. These are found in chocolate, aged or fermented cheese (including cheddar, blue, Brie, and all hard and “moldy” cheeses), soy foods, nuts, citrus fruits, and vinegar (both red and balsamic). Try also to get rid of foods with MSGs (also known as "vetsin") or those caffeinated drinks (soft drinks with cola in it, tea, chocolate drinks, coffee).
However, one coffee drink can actually help during a migraine attack - but, don't go beyond one cup. Otherwise, you'll get its nasty effect on for your head.
Be sure to watch out for these foods and be cautious. Anyway, what triggers Maria may not harm you. But, if you feel that you are sensitive to any of these foods, then, better back out fast!
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She is currently the program host of “Secrets with Dr. Fritz” over Hugyaw.com. She also wrote the book, “Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz” based in her stint as radio personality for 15 years. For your questions, you may e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)