Magnesium May Help Prevent Headaches

If you are reading this article, you have probably experienced some form of headache, whether it be a slight headache, severe headache or maybe you even suffer from chronic headaches. Headaches can range from annoying to completely debilitating.

Generally, headaches are caused by a combination of nerve signals that are sent from the blood vessels and muscles in the head. There are many possible triggers for headaches such as: dehydration, hormonal imbalances, liver dysfunction, high blood pressure, food allergies/sensitivities, blood sugar problems, stress, eyestrain or back strain, and exposure to chemical toxins.

Here are my top tips for combating headaches

1. Try magnesium. Several studies have shown that people who experience migraine headaches are more likely to be magnesium deficient. Supplementing with magnesium can help to reduce the frequency of migraines. One study showed that people who took a magnesium supplement reduced the frequency of migraines by 41.6%, compared to 15.8% in people who took a placebo. A therapeutic dose of magnesium is between 200 and 600 milligrams daily. Magnesium is found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and muscle meat. If you are in excellent health, you may be able to meet your magnesium needs by including these foods in your diet. However, if you are trying to reduce the incidence of headaches, you will probably need a magnesium supplement, either in powder or tablet Many different factors can deplete your body of magnesium, thus raising your requirement. Some of these include stress, anxiety, alcohol, sugar and diuretics (water pills).
2. Stay hydrated. Many individuals simply don’t drink enough water. Staying hydrated is a cheap and easy remedy that can leave you feeling full, energized and headache-free. All headache sufferers should ensure they are drinking plenty of water. Aim to drink 8 to 10 glasses a day to improve circulation of blood to the brain. Being dehydrated can increase the frequency and severity of headaches. If you wake with a headache, you probably didn’t drink enough water the day before.
3. Remove inflammatory foods. It is best to steer clear of common trigger foods such as chocolate, dairy products, wheat, cheese, preservatives, MSG, sugar, yeast and alcohol. You may have a food allergy or intolerance/sensitivity to one of these foods that is responsible for your headaches, so be sure to monitor your reaction to these foods.
4. Eat protein at each meal. Eating a protein source such as eggs, seafood, chicken, meat, protein powder or nuts and seeds with every meal will help to stabilize blood sugar levels and keep headaches at bay.
5. Stretch your muscles. Staying in the same spot for a long period of time, such as sitting at your desk or computer, can contribute to body tension and cause headaches. Make sure to take a break every 30 to 60 minutes – stretch and move your head and neck around in a circular motion. This action will help to alleviate built up stress and relieve headaches.
6. Move your body as often as possible. Having a headache may not inspire the motivation to be active, but going outside for a walk can help loosen up the tight muscles that are causing your headache. Participating in exercise also causes endorphins to be released which can help alleviate the pain associated with headaches.

Reference

The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease