Top Foods That Help Migraines

Migraines are painful headaches that keep people from getting to work or from attending other social events. Sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting often accompany these head-throbbing experiences. Migraine sufferers describe them as constant and intense throbbing that can last anywhere from a few hours, to a couple days before getting relief.

The Migraine Research Foundation indicates that over 10 percent of the American population suffers from migraines, and that migraines are one of the top 20 disabling medical conditions in the world. Migraines are much more common in women than they are in men. 18 percent of women experience migraines annually, and only 6 percent of men report having migraines. Even school-aged children suffer from migraines which can cause them to miss school, and fall behind in their studies.

Doctors are not exactly sure what causes migraines. Some patients experience them as a result of weather changes, hormone fluctuation, or due to stress. The popularity of seeking natural and organic treatments for ailments has drastically increased the number of people using dietary changes to prevent and treat medical conditions, including migraines. The drugs prescribed to migraine sufferers are typically strong medicines with harsh side effects, and can be pretty expensive. So if you’re interested in avoiding medications or if you simply can’t afford them, pay attention because there are a variety of dietary changes you can make that can help naturally prevent migraines.

Water :

Why it works: The best thing you can do to prevent headaches and migraines is to stay hydrated. This is a crucial component for preventing migraines. With so many drink options available, it is no surprise that many people live in a natural state of dehydration. Diuretic drinks such as coffee, soda, and tea are sometimes the only liquids people drink throughout the day. For some people caffeine is a trigger so if you suffer from migraines, go for decaf tea or coffee in moderate amounts. According to a report in the Associated Press, the average American consumes 44 gallons of soda per year. One of the first symptoms of dehydration is headache or light-headedness. If you’re already a headache sufferer, this dehydration headache can quickly escalate into a full-blown migraine. Many people don’t even realize they are dehydrated. The best way to determine if you’re dehydrated is to evaluate how you feel when you go for a drink. If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated and should only be reaching for water. By staying hydrated you will be taking the best step at not only preventing migraines, but improving your overall health and diet.

Pumpkin Seeds :

Why it works: One serving of pumpkin seeds has almost twice the recommended daily amount of magnesium. Magnesium has been proven to be the number one migraine fighter when it comes to minerals. Almost every medical source on migraines recommends magnesium as a preventive dietary measure. It also has the added bonus of relaxing you and helping you sleep. Lack of sleep can certainly worsen or even cause headaches and migraines.

Flaxseeds :

Why it works: Believe it or not, flaxseeds have way more omega-3 fats than any fish. Just one serving of flaxseeds will give you almost 30 times your recommended daily amount! It seems that a lot of companies now are putting flaxseeds in their products, so it’s easier than ever to get them into your system as a powerful migraine fighter.

Halibut :

Why it works: If you like seafood, choose a fish like halibut. Halibut has almost all of the migraine-fighting elements: omega-3 fats, magnesium, and vitamin B-2. The omega-3 fats in halibut are so high, that you’d just need a little over a single serving to get your recommended daily amount. It’s also a more palatable fish for most than tuna.

Broccoli :

Why it works: Broccoli is rich in phosphorous, a mineral that aids the body in energy storage. This is essential for nerve function and can help prevent migraines that are caused because of low electrolytes or fluids.

Labels :