Is your diet giving you headaches?
Diet-induced headaches
If you’re searching for the cause of that niggling headache, it’s possible that what you’re eating – or drinking – could be to blame.
Stop over-restricting your kilojoule intake
Spacing your meals too far apart or eating at irregular intervals causes a dip in blood-glucose levels, which drives your body into starvation mode. This triggers a cascade of hormones and brain chemicals similar to your body’s response to stress, which can bring on headaches. Once you fuel up, the headache should go away.
Tip: You should wait no more than four hours between meals. Try light snacks between meals, such as a handful of almonds.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration is a common headache trigger. Experts suspect it may have to do with narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, which reduces the brain’s supply of blood and oxygen. Not getting sufficient electrolytes may also contribute to headaches.
Tip: By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already a little dehydrated, so rehydrate often. Have a glass of water with every meal and between meals.
Avoid artificial sweeteners
Some people may be particularly sensitive to aspartame, which can lead to headaches, according to a US study. Aspartame can be in diet drinks as well as foods.
Tip: If you suspect artificial sweeteners may be triggering your headaches, keep a food journal to watch for patterns.
Cut caffeine slowly
If you’ve ditched fizzy drinks or coffee, you may be experiencing caffeine withdrawal. Experts estimate that about half of people who cut back on caffeine experience headaches.
Tip: Decrease your caffeine intake gradually.
Image credits: Getty Images
This article originally appeared on Reader's Digest.