If this type of headache occurs on a regular basis, you shouldn’t ignore it. While some headaches may be caused or triggered by certain types of foods, some are symptoms of underlying conditions that require medical attention.

Keep reading to learn what might be causing your post-meal headache.

Stay hydrated
Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day by paying attention to your thirst.

Staying hydrated is an important part of managing headaches. Not drinking enough fluids, especially in hot weather, can cause you to become dehydrated, adding to headache pain.

Water is typically an ideal choice, since it avoids the added sugar that’s found in juices, flavored coffee, sweetened tea, and other sweetened drinks.

Steer clear of foods and drinks that contain artificial sweeteners since they can aggravate headaches in certain people.

Consider an elimination diet
It’s important to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. But when a balanced diet doesn’t improve your headaches after eating, consider talking to your doctor about an elimination diet.

An elimination diet is done much like a science experience in that you continue to try different food choices to see how you’re impacted by each. This can help you discover food intolerances, sensitivities, and potential allergies.

For example, you may try going a certain period of time without dairy products to see if you still experience symptoms after eating. If your headaches go away during this time, you may have pinpointed a food sensitivity.

If they don’t go away, you can add the dairy back to your diet and eliminate another food that may be the culprit. This process can be continued until a trigger food is revealed.

You should always do an elimination diet under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist.