Did you know that chocolate can give you a headache? Not only when you step on the scale…

Some studies confirm that chocolate contains certain ingredients that can cause headaches and migraines.

Is one small, sweet, irresistible chocolate bar really worth the headache?

Although chocolate is universally considered a beneficial delicacy for both the palate and the soul, for some people this pleasure can also have an annoying contraindication: it can be associated with the onset of migraines.

But why can chocolate cause headaches? And should migraine sufferers avoid it? Here is the answer.

Here’s why chocolate can give you a headache!

Some scientific research confirms this: chocolate contains several ingredients that can cause headaches and migraines in some people. These ingredients are:

Caffeine

Caffeine is a well-known stimulant found in chocolate, especially dark chocolate. Although it can have positive effects, such as improving alertness and fighting fatigue, it can also cause headaches in some people.

This is because, in some cases, caffeine can cause blood vessels in the brain to constrict and then dilate, a mechanism that can trigger migraines.

Tiramin

Tyramine is an amino acid found naturally in many foods, including chocolate. This compound can affect blood pressure and serotonin levels in the brain, both of which can contribute to migraines.

People with a particular sensitivity to tyramine may find that eating chocolate increases the frequency or severity of their headaches.

Phenylethylamine

Phenylethylamine is a chemical compound that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain and can affect mood and general well-being.

However, in some people, phenylethylamine can also cause headaches and migraines due to its effects on the levels of endorphins and other neurotransmitters.

Should migraine sufferers avoid it?

If you suspect it could be a trigger for your migraines, it’s important to pay attention to how much and when you consume it.

A little snack every now and then won’t hurt, but if you’re one of those people who can’t say enough, then it’s important to cut back on the amount to reduce the risk of headaches.

In addition, you may want to choose types of chocolate that contain less caffeine, such as milk or white chocolate, which may be less problematic than dark chocolate.

Finally, it’s important to remember that chocolate isn’t the only food that can trigger migraines. Other common trigger foods include aged cheeses, alcohol and excessive consumption of foods rich in nitrates, which are found in some leafy greens, such as lettuce and spinach.

Tracking your overall diet can help you identify other possible triggers and make more informed (and therefore healthier) food choices.