I used to get really bad headaches all the time (I’m talkin’ tons of tears). Thankfully, I only suffer from headaches occasionally now, and I’m convinced the improvement has to do with diet.
My eating habits changed drastically over the past few years, while my headaches seemed to disappear. Coincidence? I think not. As someone who used to carry around a mini bottle of ibuprofen at all times, I’m glad that I was able to find the relief I had been aching for – the natural way. If you’re tired of those tiny pain relievers jingling ever so loudly with every step you take, reevaluate what you’re eating and reach for one of these four foods the next time a dreadful headache hits.
- Almonds: These trendy nuts are a good source of magnesium, which may help prevent the onset of headaches by causing your blood vessels to relax. It seems like a tasty, healthy handful of almonds is the answer for a lot of things. Almonds are basically the superheroes of the nut world.
- Potatoes: You had me at “potato.” This staple for any vegan with Irish roots is actually a much better source of potassium than a banana. Crazy, right? Our bodies often use headaches to communicate to us that we’re dehydrated. With dehydration, we can lose electrolytes like potassium. So, when your head’s pounding, eat a big ol’ baked potato, especially if you partied a little too hard last night. Why not treat yourself and your headache at the same time?
- Salsa: Who knew chips and salsa were good for more than just an overcrowded Super Bowl party? If you’re experiencing a headache due to the pressure from congestion, dig into some super spicy salsa! The spiciness will clear your sinuses out in no time. If salsa just isn’t your thing, the wasabi accompanying your sushi roll will have the same effect.
- Watermelon: Ah, my favorite fruit! As you know, dehydration can be the headache culprit more often than we suspect. When your head is pounding, it’s always a great idea to eat a fresh snack that has high water content, such as watermelon. Water is literally in the name, people. If for some strange, strange reason you’re not a fan of watermelon, cucumbers will get the headache-fighting job done, too.
