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Corn seems to be a known allergen for about 17% of the allergic reactions in the study, ranking it fairly high - but few studies have been done to deduce exactly why the corn causes migraine headaches. Some believe it is the histamine reaction from corn than provokes the allergy; much like seasonal allergies to ragweed or other plant based sensitivities.
Others blame the sulfites present in corn related products such as corn syrup and corn starch, and still others claim it is either pesticides used on both corn and wheat crops, or the genetically engineered versions of grains that cause the problems.
As is often the case, formal case studies concentrating on one food allergen in particular are scarce, but personal testimonials abound. One woman remembered testing positive for corn on a scratch test as a child, but her mother had been told she was only allergic to airborne corn pollen. As an adult her migraines became more and more severe until she decided to cut corn out of her diet - whereupon her headaches ceased, returning only when she inadvertently ate corn. Even the corn syrup in a Jolly Rancher or a chocolate bar containing 'glucose syrup' (read corn syrup) would cause an intense migraine(2).
Another victim came to the same conclusion after years of suffering and eliminated corn from her diet as well. This got rid of her migraines as well as alleviating even more symptoms such as IBS. She started a website about corn allergens to educate people about the prevalence of corn use in American foods, and steadfastly maintains the belief that many migraine sufferers would do well to consider avoidance of foods that contain corn and corn products(3).
Many people who report experiencing corn headaches feel that it is the corn syrup and corn starch in many breads, crackers, drinks and sweets that trigger their migraines. These reports in conjunction with corn syrup's bad reputation for contributing to obesity in the US has caused the Corn Refiners' Association to even issue television ads touting the benefits and 'naturalness' of corn syrup(4).
So far, the jury is still out on the overall safety of corn syrup, but the collaborative evidence against corn is overwhelming - too many people have reported migraines connected with corn allergy, and all that is needed is a formal study to prove it.
Research by Grace Alexander
References:
(1) Food, Allergies and Migraine. Grant ECG, Lancet, May 5, 1979;966-969. 37344
(2) The Corn Culprit
(3) www.cornallergens.com
(4) Pro Corn Syrup Ad (US)
