13 Best Foods For Headaches

Headache is a very common problem that most of us experience from time to time. While there are many over-the-counter medications available to treat headaches, certain foods can also provide relief.

According to the WHO, Globally, it is estimated that the prevalence among adults of current headache disorder (symptomatic at least once within the last year) is about 50%. Half to three-quarters of adults aged 18–65 years in the world have had headaches in the last year and, among those individuals, 30% or more have reported migraine.

Some people find that certain foods trigger their headaches, while others find that certain foods help to relieve them. If you are looking for natural ways to treat your headaches, here are some of the best foods for headaches to eat:

Best Foods For Headaches

1. Salmon

Fatty fish like salmon, trout, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce the risk of headaches.

Salmon is a very high source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.

This makes salmon an excellent food for reducing inflammation and pain associated with headaches.

Additionally, salmon is also a good source of protein, which can help to reduce fatigue and promote overall health.

2. Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against free radical damage.

Free radicals are known to contribute to inflammation, so eating foods high in antioxidants can help to reduce this.

Additionally, blueberries are a good source of vitamins C and K, both of which are essential for maintaining health.

3. Water

Dehydration is a common trigger for headaches, so it is important to make sure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day.

Aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day and avoid sugary drinks like soda as these can actually contribute to dehydration.

4. Ginger

Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for headaches and other forms of pain.

This is because ginger contains compounds like gingerol and zingerone, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

You can use ginger in many different ways, including adding it to your food or making a tea.

5. Green Tea

Green tea is high in antioxidants and also contains compounds like caffeine and L-theanine.

Caffeine can help to improve mental alertness and focus, while L-theanine can promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.

Drinking green tea can help you to stay hydrated and also provides some valuable nutrients.

6. Almonds

Almonds are a good source of magnesium, which is a mineral that is known to be involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.

Magnesium deficiency has been linked to headaches, so eating foods that are rich in this mineral can help to prevent them.

Additionally, almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

7. Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate contains compounds like caffeine and theobromine, both of which can help to improve mental alertness and focus.

Additionally, dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can help to protect the body against free radical damage.

Just be sure to choose quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (at least 85% cocoa) for the best benefits.

8. Bananas

Bananas are rich in potassium, which is a mineral that is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

Potassium deficiency has been linked to headaches, so eating foods that are rich in this mineral can help to prevent them.

Bananas are also a good source of vitamin B6, which is needed for proper nerve function.

9. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an herb that has long been used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.

Fenugreek is rich in compounds like saponins and trigonelline, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Additionally, fenugreek is a good source of fiber and vitamin C and vitamin K.

10. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil has long been used as a natural remedy for headaches and other forms of pain.

This is because peppermint oil contains compounds like menthol and limonene, which have pain-relieving properties.

You can use peppermint oil in many different ways, including adding it to your food or making tea.

11. Watermelon 

Watermelon is a good source of the antioxidants lycopene and beta-carotene. These compounds can help to protect the body against free radical damage.

Additionally, watermelon is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which are essential for maintaining health.

12. Sheep’s Yoghurt

Sheep’s yoghurt is a good source of the mineral magnesium. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to headaches, so eating foods that are rich in this mineral can help to prevent them.

Additionally, sheep’s yoghurt is a good source of protein and calcium.

13. Turmeric 

Turmeric is a spice that contains the compound curcumin. Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Additionally, turmeric can help to improve cognitive function and memory.

You can use turmeric in many different ways, including adding it to your food or making tea.

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Final Words

These are just some of the best foods for headaches that you can eat to help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to include them in your diet if you suffer from headaches frequently.

Additionally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary drinks can also help to prevent headaches. If you still experience headaches often, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Headaches can be extremely frustrating and debilitating, but fortunately, there are a number of natural ways to treat them. By including the best foods for headaches in your diet, you can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Additionally, staying hydrated and avoiding sugary drinks can also help to prevent headaches. If you still experience headaches often, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

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