A headache can be one of the worst afflictions are our body. But when it strikes, most people follow the usual routine: turn off the lights, lie down, then pop out a painkiller pill. Most of the time, it though, it's the same result. It is usually only temporarily reduced (if not, it doesn't work at all) with the painkiller but comes back even worse. Below, I've listed 3 foods that have worked wonders for my headaches in the past. Eating these foods to get rid of headaches don't simply numb up the pain as painkillers do, but actually cuts to the root of the problem and eliminates the cause.
1. Baked potatoes
"This common dinner side can be a tremendous help for your aching head, especially if the cause is alcohol-related." says Erin Palinski, a registered dietician in private practice from New Jersey. Alcohol dehydrates the body, causing a loss in important electrocites such as potassium. Eating a potassium rich food, such as potatoes, can reverse the cause if the headache if the cause is alcohol. A baked potatoe can deliver up to an amazing 721 mg. of potassium.
2. Coffee
Yes, this is actually a headache fighting drink, but only in moderation. Alcohol can cause blood vessels in the brain to expand, causing or worsening a headache. The caffeine in coffee can quickly reduce the size of the blood vessels, allowing an easy blood flow to the brain. But don't take this to far. Caffeine is also a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration in excessive amounts.
3. Whole-Grain Toast
To little carbs can be a sure-fire way to get a headache. When you follow a low-carbohydrate diet, you begin to deplete glcogen stores, which is a main source of energy to the brain. Glcogen depletion can also cause dehydration by increasing fluid loss in the body. Dehydration is one of the main causes of headaches, and in such cases, carbohydrates can be just the cure for your headache. Other healthy sources of essential carbohydrates include yogurt, fruit, and oatmeal. Be sure to consume only healthy sources of carbs, as many carb-rich beverages and foods, such as soda, can only worsen your headache.
4. Watermelon
Dehydration is a major cause of headaches. A pill can only do so much for your headache with the cause is dehydration. What better cure could there be than a hydrating, electrocite-packed fruit? A water-rich food such as a watermelon contains essential minderals, such as magnesium, which is key to eliminating headaches. A nice, refreshing watermelon can also be a tasty to fighting a headache. Try adding a watermelon to your favorite smoothie, or simply eat it by itself. Other hydrating fruits and vegetables include: cucumbers, oranges, apples, berries, tomatoes, and pineapple.
5. Almonds
According many researchers, almonds dramatically reduce your headache by relaxing blood vessels. Almonds are rich in magnesium, which is one of the best minerals for fighting headaches. A diet rich in magnesium can be one of the best diets for preventing and eliminating headaches. A few other foods that are rich in magnesium include: avocados, bananas, cashews, dried apricots, brown rice, legumes, and seeds.
I hope you benefit from these headache eliminating foods the next time one strikes!
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