Low-Carb Diets Can Trigger Headaches

By:   Jean Carper

Going on a low-carb diet, such as Atkins or South Beach, can trigger headaches, says David Buchholz, a neurologist at John Hopkins University.

"I've seen many people start having headaches after going on such low-carb diets," he says.

The reason: low-carb dieters switch to foods high in protein: cheese, nuts and yogurt, as well as nitrite-rich bacon, cold cuts and hot dogs, all of which are well-known causes of common headaches, including migraines. Be aware of these hazards so you can pinpoint and cut back on offending foods, says Buchholz , author of Heal Your Headache.

The good news is, unlike aspartame, the sweetener Splenda does not seem to prompt headaches, Buchholz says.

Still the No. 1 dietary cause of headaches: caffeine.

Copyright 2004 Jean Carper. Printed first in USA Weekend. All rights reserved.

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