Nutrition & Headache

Narrator: This is Heidi. Heidi has been experiencing migraines, dizziness and light sensitivity, which often interrupt her day. Heidi went to her local VA Hospital to receive care and was surprised to learn that there are steps that she can take to reduce her migraine through nutrition. Heidi is interested in learning more and was referred to see a registered dietitian-nutritionist for further assistance.

Dietitian: Do you often find yourself skipping meals throughout the week, not including sources of fruits, vegetables and whole grains into your meals, unable to maintain a healthy weight, or consuming caffeine, alcohol or items with sugar substitute?

Heidi: All of the above! I often skip breakfast because of my migraine pain. It also makes it hard for me to spend time to make food at home, so I end up ordering my favorite foods like fried chicken or burgers with fries from nearby restaurants. I think this has contributed to my recent weight gain. I also drink a few cups of coffee and sometimes diet cola throughout the day, more so when I don't sleep.

Narrator: The dietitian collects a thorough history of Heidi's regular diet and physical activity. After receiving headache nutrition education and counseling on lifestyle modifications, Heidi determines supportive nutrition goals that work for her.

Heidi: I want to start supporting my brain health by incorporating at least two servings of fruits and two servings of vegetables per day. I like apples, bananas and oranges for fruits, and I like cucumber, cherry tomatoes and baby carrots for vegetables. I'll add those to my grocery list for this week as well. Drinking at least 2 liters of water per day: I have a 1-liter water bottle that I drink from regularly and plan to drink at least two bottles per day.

Narrator: Heidi regularly meets with the dietitian who further assists her in planning recipes and menu items that include nutrients to support brain health with quality sources of magnesium, omega-3s and vitamin B2; to reduce her overuse of salt, added sugars and unhealthy sources of fat; and to eat several small meals a day to maintain her energy level. Her follow-up goals include identifying portion sizes to meet her personal goals, starting to record her food intake to identify other potential foods that may contribute to her headache symptoms, increasing how much water she drinks each day and decreasing coffee and soda.

Heidi: Thanks for your advice and recommendations the last 3 months. I was able to meet my first set of goals, and I'm confident that I can set new goals and accomplish them.

Narrator: To learn more, talk to your doctor and see if a nutrition referral is right for you.