Migraine-relieving McDonald's combo unveiled by brain specialist: "Absolutely astonishing!"
The Unconventional Migraine Beater: A Coke and McDonald's Fries
Looking for an unexpected solution to that pesky migraine? You might want to give the infamous McDonald's 'migraine hack' a shot. This surprising method, recommended by neurologist Dr. Jessica Lowe, involves devouring a large Coca-Cola and a serving of McDonald's fries.
Before you dismiss this as a mere internet fad, here's the science behind it. Dr. Lowe, who grapples with chronic migraines herself, claims that this combo can stop a migraine dead in its tracks, thanks to the caffeine in the Coke and the salt on the fries.
So why does this peculiar duo work? First off, a large Coke from McDonald's boasts approximately 80 milligrams of caffeine, likely enough to halt your migraine in its early stages. Caffeine is known to constrict blood vessels in the brain, thereby reducing inflammation and pressure, which could potentially lessen migraine pain. Moreover, caffeine can block the activity of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that increases during migraine attacks and contributes to the pain.
As for the fries, they provide a decent dose of electrolytes, particularly sodium. Imbalances in electrolytes, crucial minerals such as sodium, have been linked to triggering migraines. By consuming saltier foods like fries, you can help alleviate migraine pain and possibly reduce their frequency of occurrence.
Moreover, the carbs in the fries could help if your migraines are provoked by hunger or low blood sugar levels. Dr. Lowe advises that the McDonald's hack isn't the healthiest option, but she acknowledges that when feeling unwell, comfort food can be hard to resist.
Though chromium-based migraine sufferers may find solace in this hack, it's essential to remember that individual responses to caffeine and diet vary. Excessive caffeine consumption could trigger migraines for some, so drastically increasing your caffeine intake might not be the best idea. Instead, if you wish to harness the potent effects of caffeine, you could consider over-the-counter migraine relief pills like Panmigrol, which offer a more controlled dosage.
While this method might not be a one-size-fits-all solution, for some it could offer much-needed relief during those tough times when pain and nausea threaten to take over. So, the next time a migraine strikes, consider giving this unconventional hack a chance. Just don't make a habit of relying on it for the long run.
Further Reading:
- Must-know guide to treating - and preventing - a migraine: Before a migraine hits, you may encounter symptoms like tiredness, food cravings, mood swings, or a stiff neck. Other warning signs include vision problems, numbness, dizziness, and difficulty speaking. The exact cause of migraines remains largely unknown, but they're believed to be the result of abnormal brain activity causing changes in the brain's nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels[1].
- Caffeine and Migraines: Consuming caffeine can have both positive and negative effects on migraines. On the one hand, it acts as a vasoconstrictor, helping to reduce inflammation and potentially alleviating migraine pain[1][2]. On the other hand, caffeine can lead to excessive stimulation of brain cells, resulting in headaches and migraines for certain individuals[3].
- Sodium and Migraines: Sodium-rich diets have been linked to lower chances of migraine attacks, with some migraine sufferers finding that consuming salt can help manage symptoms[1][2]. However, the role of sodium in migraines is still the subject of ongoing research and debate among experts.
Sources:1. American Migraine Foundation. "Migraine Triggers: Foods & Beverages." [Accessed 2021-08-05]. Available at: https://americanmigraine.org/resource-library/migraine-information/migraine-triggers-foods-beverages/2. Mayo Clinic Staff. "Caffeine and Migraines." [Accessed 2021-08-05]. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/expert-answers/caffeine-and-migraines/faq-200580623. National Headache Foundation. "Migraine and Caffeine: Friend or Foe?" [Accessed 2021-08-05]. Available at: https://www.headaches.org/2021/02/migraine-and-caffeine-friend-or-foe/
- For those experiencing migraines, consuming a large Coca-Cola and McDonald's fries, as suggested by neurologist Dr. Jessica Lowe, might offer relief due to the caffeine in the cola and the salt on the fries.
- Caffeine, found in the Coke, is known to constrict blood vessels in the brain, reducing inflammation and pressure which could potentially lessen migraine pain, while saltier foods like the fries can help alleviate migraine pain due to the electrolyte imbalances linked to triggering migraines.
- The combo of a sugary drink and salty snack could also work for individuals experiencing migraines due to food cravings or low blood sugar levels, as the carbs in the fries might help stabilize blood sugar levels.
- This 'unconventional migraine hack' may not be the healthiest option or suitable for everyone, particularly those with chromium-based migraine or sensitivity to caffeine, as excessive caffeine consumption could trigger migraines for some.
- Though not a one-size-fits-all solution, for some individuals, the Coke and McDonald's fries combo might provide much-needed relief during migraine attacks, offering an unexpected alternative to traditional migraine treatments.
