Randy Chandler
There are many different triggers that can cause headaches, including certain foods and drinks. Tyramine, a chemical found in aged cheeses, has been linked to headaches and migraines. The longer the cheese is aged, the higher the tyramine content. Some cheeses that are high in tyramine include blue cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar, gouda, parmesan, and feta. Some people have reported experiencing dull headaches after consuming melted cheese, especially when eaten by itself. However, it is important to note that individual sensitivity to tyramine can vary, and not everyone will experience headaches from consuming melted cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Does melted cheese cause headaches? | There is no conclusive evidence that melted cheese causes headaches, however, some people have reported experiencing dull headaches after consuming melted cheese. |
| Possible causes | It is speculated that the headaches could be related to the presence of tyramine, a chemical that forms as proteins in cheese break down over time. Aged cheeses, such as cheddar, blue cheese, and parmesan, tend to have higher levels of tyramine and are more commonly associated with headaches. |
| Individual variations | It is important to note that triggers for headaches and migraines vary from person to person, and a combination of factors may contribute to the onset of a headache. |
| Other potential triggers | Various other factors can trigger headaches, including caffeine, artificial sweeteners, MSG, chocolate, hormonal changes, stress, bright lights, and changes in sleep habits. |
| Identifying triggers | Keeping a headache diary or food diary can help identify specific triggers, as headaches may not occur immediately after consuming certain foods. |
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What You'll Learn
Tyramine in cheese
While there is a lack of research on cheese as a direct trigger of headaches, it is generally believed that aged cheese is more likely to cause headaches. This is due to the presence of tyramine, a chemical that forms as the proteins in cheese break down over time. The longer the cheese ages, the higher the tyramine content. Tyramine causes nerve cells in the brain to release norepinephrine, a chemical that can lead to headaches when present in high levels.
Cheeses that are typically aged and have higher tyramine content include blue cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar, Gouda, Parmesan, Camembert, Feta, Muenster, and Stilton. However, not all aged cheeses have the same tyramine levels, and some cheeses with lower tyramine content include American cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, fresh milk, farmer's cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, soy cheese, and soy milk.
It is important to note that individual sensitivity to tyramine may vary, and not everyone will experience headaches from consuming aged cheese. To determine if tyramine is a trigger for your headaches, it is recommended to keep a headache diary for several months, noting the time, date, and potential triggers, such as food consumed, changes in sleep habits, stress levels, and exposure to strong smells or bright lights.
If you suspect that tyramine in cheese is contributing to your headaches, you may consider reducing your intake of aged cheeses or choosing lower-tyramine alternatives. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to help identify specific triggers and determine the most appropriate course of action for managing your headaches effectively.
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Other food triggers
While the link between melted cheese and headaches is not clear, it is known that certain foods can trigger headaches and migraines. These are some of the most common food triggers:
Tyramine-Rich Foods
Tyramine, a chemical formed during protein breakdown, has been associated with triggering headaches and migraines. It is found in higher amounts in aged cheeses, such as cheddar, blue cheese, Swiss, Gouda, and Parmesan. However, other foods like processed or cured meats, fermented foods, and even some naturally occurring ingredients like seaweed, tomatoes, and non-aged cheeses also contain tyramine.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a double-edged sword when it comes to headaches. While a small amount can help alleviate a headache, excessive caffeine consumption or withdrawal can make individuals more susceptible to headaches and migraines. It is recommended that those prone to migraines limit their daily caffeine intake to 200 milligrams.
Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
MSG, commonly found in soy sauce and used as a food additive, is a common trigger for headaches and may also cause digestive issues. It is naturally present in ingredients like hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, and some cheeses.
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose have been linked to headaches, although the evidence suggests that they are not strong migraine triggers on their own. However, when combined with other triggers like stress or hormonal changes, they may contribute to migraine attacks.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a common beverage associated with triggering migraines, with red wine being the most frequently reported trigger among those who experience migraines.
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Caffeine consumption
While the specific link between melted cheese and headaches is unclear, there are several other dietary factors that can contribute to headaches or migraines. One of these factors is caffeine consumption.
Chocolate, which often contains caffeine, may also be a headache trigger for some people due to its caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine content.
It is important to note that triggers for headaches and migraines vary from person to person, and a combination of triggers may lead to a headache. Keeping a headache diary for several months can help identify specific triggers.
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Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
While the exact cause of headaches after consuming melted cheese is unclear, some potential triggers include:
MSG is a sodium salt of glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid in our bodies. It is commonly used as a flavour enhancer in processed foods and as a food additive. While it is generally regarded as safe, some individuals may have a sensitivity or intolerance to MSG, leading to adverse reactions such as headaches or migraines. It is important to note that MSG can be naturally found in certain ingredients such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, yeast extract, soy extracts, and protein isolate, as well as in seaweed, tomatoes, and some cheeses. Due to this, checking food labels and being aware of MSG content can be challenging.
Tyramine
Tyramine is a chemical compound that forms as proteins in food break down over time. Aged cheeses, such as blue cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar, Stilton, Camembert, Gouda, and Parmesan, tend to have higher levels of tyramine. Tyramine can trigger the release of norepinephrine in the brain, leading to changes that may cause headaches or migraines.
Caffeine
Caffeine can be a double-edged sword when it comes to headaches. While small amounts can help alleviate headaches, excessive caffeine consumption or caffeine withdrawal can make individuals more susceptible to headaches or migraines.
Other Potential Triggers
Headaches can be triggered by a variety of factors, including environmental changes, bright lights, loud noises, changes in sleep patterns, stress, and food allergies or intolerances. Keeping a headache diary can be a useful tool to help identify specific triggers and patterns.
It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional if headaches persist or become severe.
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Stress and environment
While there is limited research on cheese as a direct trigger of headaches, some studies suggest that aged cheese may be more likely to cause headaches due to its tyramine content. Tyramine, a chemical that forms as proteins in cheese break down over time, can cause changes in the brain that lead to headaches. However, it is important to note that individual sensitivity to tyramine varies, and not everyone will experience headaches from consuming tyramine-rich foods.
Maintaining a headache diary can be a useful tool for identifying specific triggers. Recording the time, date, and potential triggers preceding a headache can help individuals understand their unique triggers and develop strategies to manage their headaches effectively. This may include limiting or avoiding specific foods, reducing exposure to identified environmental triggers, or consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
Additionally, it is worth noting that caffeine, while helpful in relieving headaches for some, can also make individuals more susceptible to headaches when consumed in excess or during caffeine withdrawal. Therefore, managing caffeine intake and being mindful of its potential impact on headache occurrence is essential for overall headache management.
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Frequently asked questions
While there is not much research on cheese as a migraine trigger, it is generally agreed that aged cheese is more likely to cause headaches. The culprit is believed to be tyramine, a chemical that forms as the proteins in cheese break down over time.
Tyramine is a chemical that forms as the proteins in cheese break down over time. Having higher levels of tyramine in your system, along with unusual levels of other brain chemicals, can cause changes in the brain that lead to headaches.
Some examples of aged cheeses include blue cheese, Swiss, cheddar, Gouda, Parmesan, Camembert, Feta, Muenster, and Stilton.
Yes, other foods that can trigger headaches include processed meats, cured meats, fermented foods, chocolate, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and MSG.
If you find that melted cheese is triggering your headaches, you can try to avoid aged cheeses and opt for cheeses that are lower in tyramine, such as American cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, fresh milk, farmer's cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, soy cheese, and soy milk. Additionally, keeping a headache diary can help you identify specific triggers and patterns.
