Tension headaches affect as many as 80 percent of adults in developed countries, according to the World Health Organization. Others may suffer from more serious migraines or from garden-variety head pain with no obvious cause. Popping an over-the-counter pain medication might help minor headaches, but many foods can do the same job.
Healthy Carbohydrates
Some headaches can occur because you're supplying insufficient energy to your brain. Your brain thrives on glucose, which your body converts from carbohydrates. Combating a headache by filling up on sugar isn't a good idea, but you can potentially fight off head pain by giving your brain what it wants through complex carbs such as whole wheat products. If your headaches are migraines, however, be careful with wheat products because they can have an adverse effect on these headaches, even triggering them in some sufferers.
Vegetables
Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can bring on headaches, so if you provide your body with these things, it can potentially bring relief. Potatoes contain potassium, which can ease head pain. Much of the potassium is contained in the skin, so eat that as well. Avocados are rich in magnesium, which can ease the restriction of blood vessels and sooth a minor headache, but they might actually worsen a migraine. Spinach also eases head pain.
Fruits
Apricots and bananas are rich in magnesium, and bananas have a relatively high potassium content. Fruits also contain fructose, which converts to glucose in order to nourish your brain. Bananas and some citrus fruits might bring on migraines, however, so be careful depending on what sort of headaches you suffer from. Keeping a food diary can help you identify potential migraine triggers.
Nuts and Seeds
Almonds and cashews both contain magnesium, so try munching on a few to soothe your headache. Additionally, sesame seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which works on your circulation to get your blood flowing properly, which can ease a headache.
Tips
In addition to eating the right things to make your headache go away, it's a good idea look to your diet to see if something you're eating or drinking might be causing your headaches in the first place. Alcoholic beverages can cause headaches, especially red wine and dark liquors. If you enjoy a cocktail now and again and it brings on a headache, try switching to white wine or clear liquors such as vodka. The chemicals and artificial coloring used in processed foods can also cause headaches, so if you're frequently plagued by them, try focusing on more natural foods.
References
- "Woman's Day"; 9 Foods That Can Help Soothe a Headache; Sarah Jio; June 2010
- MyFoxPhilly.com; Foods That Help Soothe Headaches; July 1010
- HealthGuidance; 5 Ways to Relieve Migraine Headaches Naturally; Larry A. Johnson, D.C.; 2011
- Women to Women; Natural Relief From Chronic Headaches; Marcy Holmes, NP
- World Health Organization; Headache Disorders; March 2004
