FAQ

Why do I get headaches when I eat Chinese food?

Why do I get headaches when I eat Chinese food?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) symptom complex refers to a group of symptoms some people experience after eating food containing MSG. These symptoms often include headache, skin flushing, and sweating.

Is Chinese food bad for migraines?

MSG is a popular food additive that enhances the umami flavor of foods. Based on the current research, there’s not enough evidence to suggest that MSG consumption is associated with headaches or migraine attacks. Still, more research is needed in this area. MSG does not appear to be harmful.

Does MSG really trigger migraines?

Chemicals added to food to enhance their flavor or help them stay fresh longer may bring on a headache: MSG (monosodium glutamate). While research studies to date do not conclusively establish MSG as a migraine trigger, you should avoid MSG if it appears to be a trigger.

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What food can cause severe headaches?

But there are some common triggers that can cause or contribute to migraine episodes in some people.

  • Caffeine. Too much caffeine and experiencing caffeine withdrawal can cause migraine or headaches.
  • Artificial sweeteners.
  • Alcohol.
  • Chocolate.
  • Foods containing MSG.
  • Cured meats.
  • Aged cheeses.
  • Pickled and fermented foods.

Why does MSG cause headaches?

The mechanism behind MSG-induced headaches is not fully understood. MSG is an excitatory amino acid that binds to MNDA receptions in the brain. This activation leads to the release of nitric oxide, which then leads to the dilation or widening of blood vessels around the skull.

What are the signs and symptoms of MSG intolerance?

These reactions — known as MSG symptom complex — include:

  • Headache.
  • Flushing.
  • Sweating.
  • Facial pressure or tightness.
  • Numbness, tingling or burning in the face, neck and other areas.
  • Rapid, fluttering heartbeats (heart palpitations)
  • Chest pain.
  • Nausea.

What foods should migraine sufferers avoid?

10 Migraine-Triggering Foods

  • Excessive Coffee.
  • Red Wine.
  • Aged Cheeses.
  • Chocolate.
  • Citrus Fruits.
  • Aspartame and Other Artificial Sweeteners.
  • Yeast.
  • Monosodium Glutamate (a.k.a. MSG)
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How quickly can food trigger a migraine?

Eating a certain food should trigger a headache within 12 to at most 24 hours.

How long does it take for food to trigger migraine?

How can you tell if a food is a trigger for your migraine? Eating a certain food should trigger a headache within 12 to at most 24 hours. Limit the food of concern for four weeks and monitor your headache frequency, severity, and response to treatment using a headache diary.

Why is MSG bad for your brain?

Effect on brain health For starters, it acts as a neurotransmitter — a chemical substance that stimulates nerve cells to transmit signals ( 1 , 2 ). Some studies claim that MSG can lead to brain toxicity by causing excessive glutamate levels in the brain to overstimulate nerve cells, resulting in cell death ( 2 , 7 ).

What helps get rid of headaches fast?

In this Article

  1. Try a Cold Pack.
  2. Use a Heating Pad or Hot Compress.
  3. Ease Pressure on Your Scalp or Head.
  4. Dim the Lights.
  5. Try Not to Chew.
  6. Hydrate.
  7. Get Some Caffeine.
  8. Practice Relaxation.
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Why do I get a headache after eating Chinese food?

If you get a headache after eating Chinese food, the cause is most likely the food additive called MSG, or monosodium glutamate, which is used as a flavor enhancer and as a meat tenderizer. If you are sensitive to MSG, a headache can come on in about 30 minutes.

Does Chinese food have MSG?

If you’ve developed an odd reaction after eating a meal from your favorite Chinese restaurant, you may suspect that you’re suffering from an MSG allergy. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a food additive that’s added to many canned and processed foods, as well as Chinese food, to enhance flavor. A lot of Chinese food is filled with MSG.

How does Chinese food affect your body?

How Chinese food affects your body Chinese restaurant syndrome. Chinese restaurant syndrome refers to a collection of symptoms that people may experience after eating Chinese food. Headache. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) when consumed is known to cause headache or flushing. Chest pain. High blood pressure. Heart palpitations. Shortness of breath. Watch out for MSG. Know the many names of MSG.