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Headaches Due to Nitrate Allergy

Nitrates are chemicals found in many foods and are used as preservatives. Many people are sensitive to this chemical and can develop serious headaches or even migraines from a nitrate allergy.

  1. Nitrate Allergy

    • Nitrates can cause different symptoms in different people. Many suffer from headaches, but often they experience other symptoms such as asthma, urticaria or rhinitis.

    Natural Sources of Nitrates

    • Nitrates are found naturally in a number of vegetables, such as potatoes, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach and lettuce.

    Foods Preserved with Nitrates

    • Many cured pork products, including ham and salami, are preserved with nitrates. It is also commonly used in making wine.

    Nitrate Reaction

    • Nitrates react in the body to become nitrites, and this chemical reaction leaches oxygen out of the bloodstream.

    Nitrite Reactions

    • Nitrites are the real cause of the headache. They can also cause flushing of the skin of the face and neck or a gray pallor due to a lack of oxygen.

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