Headaches can quickly ruin our day. Between stress, lack of hydration, variations in blood sugar or small dietary deficiencies, there is no shortage of causes. Fortunately, what we put on our plate plays a key role in avoiding them.
5 foods to counter headaches
Ginger
Used for centuries in traditional medicine, ginger has carved out a special place for itself in the world of natural remedies. With its active compounds gingerol and shogaol, this rhizome is a powerful anti-inflammatory. A freshly brewed ginger tea or a few strips added to a salad can work wonders when pain rears its ugly head.
Almonds
Rich in magnesium, almonds help relax blood vessels, which reduces the frequency of headaches. In addition, this mineral plays a key role in the transmission of nerve signals and muscle relaxation. Incorporating a handful of almonds, preferably unsalted, into your daily diet helps prevent these inconveniences.
Oily fish
Salmon, mackerel and even sardines are among the foods richest in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These acids reduce inflammation in blood vessels, a leading cause of headaches. In addition to acting on pain, they are also beneficial for the heart and the brain! For optimal effect, eat fatty fish two to three times a week. Just grilled, marinated or raw, fatty fish are your best allies against headaches.
Spinach
Spinach isn’t just good for Popeye. They’re packed with magnesium, vitamin B2, and folic acid, nutrients that play a key role in preventing headaches. Add them raw to your salads or lightly sauté them in olive oil to preserve their nutrients.
The coffee
Coffee is one of the most consumed drinks in the world, appreciated for its taste, but above all for its ability to give us a boost. In addition to its stimulating effect, coffee also has unsuspected benefits against headaches, thanks to the caffeine it contains. Consumed in moderation, this substance helps reduce sensitivity to pain by constricting the blood vessels of the brain. However, be careful not to overuse it. So limit yourself to one or two cups a day, preferably in the morning or in the morning.
Although these foods are not miracle cures, they fit perfectly into a global approach: a diet rich in magnesium, omega-3 and vitamins, obviously coupled with good hydration. In addition to these foods, avoid headache-triggering dietary factors such as alcohol and highly processed foods.