Prolonged headaches can become a serious problem, but dietary changes can alleviate attacks or even prevent their occurrence.
Migraine attacks can last from 4 hours to several days, significantly disrupting a person's usual rhythm of life. This condition brings its unpleasant adjustments, as reported by kiz. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK, migraines can be accompanied by various neurological symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light and sound, as well as other sensory irritants. Some people experience a migraine aura before the onset of a headache — a complex of symptoms that precedes the headache.
Typically, migraines have a hereditary nature; however, each person has their own triggers — factors that provoke attacks. Doctors emphasize the importance of understanding individual triggers that influence pain. Often, non-compliance with dietary restrictions significantly exacerbates the intensity of headaches.
Nutrition plays a key role in everyone's life, but for those suffering from migraines, it is important to carefully monitor their diet, as certain foods can be dietary triggers. Some foods can provoke headaches, namely:
* products containing caffeine;
* gluten-containing products;
* chocolate and cocoa products;
* aged cheeses (e.g., cheddar, Roquefort, Brie);
* citrus fruits.
Experts recommend memorizing all items on this list and avoiding their consumption. However, there are triggers that a person cannot influence. Other factors that can cause migraines include environmental influences.
According to allergist Kirti Johal, bright lights, strong odors, sudden temperature changes, and excessive heat can also contribute to the onset of migraines. While it is possible to try to minimize the impact of these factors, dealing with emotional upheavals is more challenging. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly worsen the condition of a person with migraines, and not everyone can cope with them.
Johal recommends adhering to a balanced diet, incorporating moderate physical activity into the daily routine, and maintaining a work and rest schedule to give the body enough time to recover.
It is essential to avoid dehydration, as water balance is one of the most important factors that can prevent headaches. Doctors also advise not to skip meals, as the body gets used to a certain eating schedule. Deviating from the usual routine can lead to increased migraines.
Caffeine is considered a strong migraine trigger. However, this does not mean that one should completely give up their morning cup of coffee. Moderate caffeine consumption will not harm, and in some cases, it may even help in recovery after a headache attack.
Experts recommend monitoring the total amount of caffeine consumed throughout the day. It is important to note that coffee is not the only source of this substance. Caffeine is also found in other beverages, foods, and some medications.
If a person consumes too much coffee and cannot control this habit, it is recommended to replace at least a few cups with decaffeinated beverages or green tea, which has a lower caffeine level.
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Every body is unique, so there is no universal solution to the problem. Nevertheless, the aforementioned recommendations may help alleviate pain and reduce the risk of a severe attack.
If dietary changes and adherence to a daily routine do not yield positive results, and attacks become more frequent and intense, it is necessary to seek consultation from a specialist.
