Most people have experienced headaches. They torment many to the point of being called a modern-day ailment. Often, people dismiss them as minor issues, alleviating symptoms with over-the-counter painkillers. But, serious brain diseases can be the underlying cause. If you experience an unfamiliar headache, seek medical attention. For those with mild headaches, let’s explore foods that can help:
Bananas
Bananas can prevent hypoglycemia, which might lead to migraines or headaches, and are rich in magnesium, aiding in headache relief. They are about 74% water, assisting in hydration. They also provide high-quality energy necessary for daily life and exercise, offering natural sugars. Bananas help stabilize heart rhythms, ensure a steady oxygen supply to the brain, and maintain body hydration.
Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, which is often added to headache medications. However, its effects can last up to 5 hours, so that a morning coffee could result in an afternoon headache. According to the U.S. National Headache Foundation, overconsumption can cause “caffeine withdrawal headaches.” If you experience these, consider coffee with half the caffeine or decaf.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms promote gut health and can prevent migraines. For headaches caused by leaky gut syndrome, consuming foods rich in riboflavin, like mushrooms, quinoa, nuts, and eggs, can be beneficial. Especially mushrooms offer a rich source of Vitamin D, making them ideal for those who don’t get enough sunlight.
Spinach
Leafy vegetables like spinach are excellent sources of magnesium. The U.S. Migraine Association states many patients have low brain magnesium levels and often take magnesium supplements and migraine medication. Spinach is also rich in the antioxidant vitamin C, which inhibits the active oxygen that causes aging and deteriorates tissue functions in our body.
Seeds and Nuts
Seeds and nuts are rich in magnesium and fiber. Nutritionally, a magnesium deficiency can be a leading cause of cluster headaches. Flaxseeds, sprouted pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of magnesium. Pumpkin seeds, rich in fiber, also help prevent constipation associated with migraines.
Yogurt
Digestive issues like constipation can accompany migraines. Plain yogurt provides hydration and promotes gut health. It is a nutritious food, rich in calcium, protein, zinc, and B vitamins. The nutrients in yogurt are quickly absorbed, providing energy in a short time.
Broccoli
Just before menstruation, a drop in estrogen levels can trigger headaches. Consuming cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy can effectively prevent menstrual migraines. Broccoli is notably rich in vitamin C and essential flavonoids that effectively recycle vitamin C. It also contains powerful antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, preventing body oxidation due to harmful oxygen.
Black Beans
Representing “black foods,” black beans are effective against reactive hypoglycemia-induced headaches. Eating foods like pumpkin, quinoa, and root vegetables helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Interestingly, black beans are known to contain even more anti-aging components than regular beans.
Berries
Eating antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and wild strawberries can alleviate sinus pressure. Berries are rich in polyphenols, prominent antioxidants, and anti-inflammatories. According to studies, drinking strawberry juice with a Western breakfast counters the adverse effects of the Western diet.
Herbal Tea
Teas are generally suitable for hydration. Depending on the type, they offer additional benefits. Peppermint tea is effective in reducing sinus (near the nose) pressure. The U.S. Migraine Foundation states that sinus headaches arise from inflammation or swelling in the sinuses. Research has also shown ginger tea can help alleviate tension headaches.
By. Oh Hye-in (press@daily.co.kr)
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