The combination of diet, exercise and sleep is not an easy balance to find; but nonetheless, it is one of the most-critical elements in maintaining long-term control over a headache condition. Patients often underestimate the connection between what they consume and how it affects their bodies. The reality is by avoiding certain foods and beverages may significantly reduce headache triggers.

1. DO NOT skip meals. Eat consistently, including breakfast every morning.
2. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables - raw, lightly cooked or dried. Bananas, watermelons, dates, mangoes, papaya, and pineapple can increase your energy levels as fast as any candy bar. Carrots and potatoes are also quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream.
3. Unless allergic, consume small amounts of nuts and seeds every day.
4. Incorporate whole grains, brown rice, whole-grain bread, cornflakes and shredded wheat into the daily diet.
5. Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
6. Drink six 8-ounce glasses of water daily.
7. Stay away from stimulants such as caffeine and limit fried and high-fat foods or highly processed foods like candy bars and chips.