Sometimes, a dreaded migraine headache can feel unbearable. So, is there anything that can be done to alleviate headaches caused by cancer treatments?
In this article you’ll discover the pain-relieving benefits of some readily available foods that can help ease painful headaches. Not only will these foods relieve the headache −, they’ll also improve your overall health.
Why Do Headaches Happen?
The body doesn’t make mistakes. Even though headaches are a nuisance, and sometimes a complete disruption, they serve a purpose. A headache is the body’s signal that something is wrong. Many times when you are dehydrated you can get a headache. If that’s not the case, then it could be that you are nutritionally depleted.
Another cause of headaches can be due to a depletion of potassium and magnesium. However, if you are experiencing chronic headaches you should consult with your physician.
Thankfully there are many foods that when consumed will help counteract nutrient depletion and dehydration.
9 Food Remedies for Headache
#1. Wild Salmon
Salmon is on the list for its high quantity of healthy fatty acids. Being especially known for its omega-3 fatty acid content, salmon can reduce inflammation, protect the nervous system, and regulate brain health. Yes, our brain needs healthy fatty acids such as omega-3s, in order to function properly. Studies have shown that the majority of Americans are not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.
If opting for plant-based diet, brain-healthy alternatives, you can try: Chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, or marine phytoplankton.
#2. Ginger
Research has shown the properties in ginger to be powerful enough to stop a migraine headache. If consumed in the right dosage, it can even relieve the pain from fibromyalgia. This is due to ginger’s potent anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
What makes ginger so special when it comes to headaches is that its particular spiciness burns straight to the brain. This effect is kind of like turning the light on in the brain. Meaning that when we consume a sufficient amount of raw ginger it opens the brain, drains any excess mucus, and gives us energy all at the same time. This is definitely a key ingredient for the anti-headache smoothie!
#3. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin which increases circulation while relieving tension headaches. This releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Furthermore, if you are experiencing blocked sinuses, chili peppers will drain the blockage and stop the headache.
#4. Sesame Seeds
Although small in, these seeds are very high in nutrients. Especially vitamin E, calcium, and magnesium. They also improve circulation. Calcium-rich foods help the brain to function properly. So when you feel a pounding headache coming on, drinking whole sesame seed milk can do wonders.
#5. Dark Leafy Greens
These include spinach, kale, collards, and Swiss chard. These greens are high in iron which helps bind oxygen to deliver it where needed. Dark leafy greens are also high in antioxidants that heal damaged tissue. A spinach salad can help to decrease blood pressure and help you relax, thus relieving the headache.
#6. Hydrating Foods
These include cucumber, melons, celery, zucchini, tomato, juicy fruits, berries, and more. Hydrating foods will restore the electrolyte balance while making it possible for the body to distribute much needed nutrition.
If you drink water and still feel a headache, then it is usually because you are not retaining the liquid you just drank. Adding a pinch of mineral-rich salt to that glass of water will help to hydrate you more effectively.
#7. Herbs
The most effective herbs for easing headaches are mint, basil, oregano, sage, and rosemary. For a little aromatherapy, breathing essential oils of lavender, mint or eucalyptus has been proven to be helpful.
St. John’s Wort oil is also helpful. Making a mixed herb pesto while basking in therapeutic aromas might be a simple and delicious solution.
#8. Dark Chocolate
Why is chocolate on this list? Well, when chocolate is in its raw, untoasted state, it is astonishingly high in nutrients. These include headache-relieving magnesium. Chocolate is also high in phytonutrients, zinc, phosphorous, protein, fibre, and more. Raw chocolate naturally contains opiates which replace our pain with a very pleasant feeling.
In truth, chocolate does make you happy. Just be sure to hydrate while indulging in some brain-healthy raw chocolate (and that sugary chocolate bar from the vending machine doesn’t count!)
#9. Whole Grains
The slow processing quality of whole grains help our bodies to stay energized longer. If following a gluten-free diet, you can still get the benefits from seeds such as millet, buckwheat, quinoa, amaranth, and gluten-free oats. These options simultaneously reduce inflammation and are good for overall brain health.
This recipe contains ingredients that help alleviate headaches. It can also be enjoyed as a healthy, refreshing beverage.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups of honeydew or watermelon, including seeds
- 1 handful of fresh basil OR mint leaves
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon of raw honey (optional)
- ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, freshly grated
- 1 pinch of cayenne pepper
- ½ cup fresh coconut milk
- 1½ cups of spring OR filtered water
Instructions
- Cut the honeydew melon open and remove the seeds and skin. Cut into large cubes.
- Put melon cubes in a high-speed blender along with the remaining ingredients.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into glasses and garnish with a sprig of basil or mint. Enjoy!
