ask the experts.(migraines)(Runner's knee)(Methylsulfonylmethane)

I suffer from migraine headaches and am curious to know if it has anything to do with my diet. Do certain foods cause migraines--what in them would trigger migraines?

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Many factors are involved in bringing on migraines, including genetics, diet, food allergies, stress, hormonal imbalances and fatigue. Diet and food allergies are suspected to be a culprit about 30 percent of the time.

Since improper circulation underpins migraines, try to increase your intake of omega-3 fats since they help prevent excess stickiness of platelets and work well as natural blood thinners.

Also, evaluate to see if certain foods trigger your migraine, particularly chocolate, milk, nuts, "cured" meats, hot dogs, aged cheese, fermented, pickled or marinated foods and cola drinks. Very cold foods can sometimes trigger headaches. Hypoglycemia can also trigger migraines, so eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. Finally, eliminate specific chemicals that may trigger migraines, such as tyramine (found in aged cheese and vinegar), phenylalanine, alcoholic drinks such as red wine, beer or whisky, food additives (sodium nitrate, monosodium glutamate [MSG], aspartame) and caffeine. Avoid MSG and use stevia instead of Nutrasweet (brand of aspartame).

I have had runner's knee throughout the past year, could it be chronic? I've tried to tone down my exercises; is there anything else I can do?

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