As many as 20 percent of Americans suffer migraine headaches. The causes of migraines are complicated and not well understood, although certain components of foods -- natural or added -- have been suspected, but not proven, to be causes for headaches in some people. And susceptible individuals may be affected by a combination of factors, not just a food.

Tyrosine (a compound found in cheese and chocolate), histamine (in red wine), caffeine (in coffee and colas), benzoic acid (a preservative) and alcohol may be food-related triggers of migraines.

If you experience chronic headaches, check with your doctor for a medical diagnosis. To determine which foods, if any, trigger migraine attacks, keep a diary of what you eat. Depending on how often your attacks occur, you may need to keep a diary for several weeks. If you're diagnosed with migraine headaches and you feel you're susceptible to food triggers, a registered dietitian can recommend appropriate substitutes.