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Sugar And Migraine: All You Need To Know
Does Sugar Increase the Risk of Having Migraine Attacks?
Did you know that migraine triggers are different for everyone and it is a very common word when it comes to migraine? These “triggers” are factors that increase the risk of having migraine attacks if you are sensitive to them instead of actually triggering the attack.
Too much sugar and too little sugar can increase the risk of having migraine attacks. When you consume too much sugar at once or don’t eat for an extended period, you can cause rapid fluctuations in your blood sugar levels which may increase the risk of migraine attacks.
Sugar is a vital component of your body’s chemistry, it has a direct effect on your brain and nervous system. Migraine attacks after consuming sugar may have a lot to do with your blood glucose level. Glucose gives your body energy by entering your bloodstream after you consume sugar. Your body maintains a proper blood sugar level by breaking down glucose with insulin. Fluctuations in your glucose level affect your brain more than any other organ. These rises and drops can result increase the risk of having migraine attacks.
Sugar is present in almost all the food we consume. Some of them are naturally occurring sugar found in fruits and dairy. It is also a primary source of energy for our body.
In most cases, when the body receives an excess of glucose, it will have to produce more insulin to regulate normally. This condition is known to be hyperglycemia. Symptoms of this condition include headache, increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. As a result, the headaches felt during this period could range from mild to severe. Once our glucose level is back to normal, the headaches should also subside.
On the other hand, low glucose levels could lead to hypoglycemia. Typical symptoms include headache, hunger, confusion, and trembling. If left untreated, it could lead to loss of consciousness. The good news is, consuming sugary drinks, energy gels, or a piece of candy could help balance out the glucose level.
Tips to reduce sugar and be Migraine Pro
Glucose is the primary and preferred source of fuel for the brain and body.
However, many people can benefit from reducing their added sugar intake by instead choosing fruits and vegetables, which provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and naturally occurring sugar for energy. Including fibrous, complex carbohydrates can help deter cravings and minimize sugar withdrawal.
People can increase their chances of success, reduce cravings, and minimize sugar withdrawal symptoms by using the following tips:
Avoid the following foods and drinks:
- Sugar-sweetened beverages: Sodas, fruit juices, and energy drinks are the leading sources of added sugars, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source. Drink water and unsweetened coffee or tea instead.
- Candies and sweets: These food items contain high quantities of added sugar. Try replacing them with fresh fruit.
- Baked goods: Cakes, cookies, and even certain types of bread contain added sugars. Avoid these refined carbohydrates as much as possible.
- Avoid hidden sugars: Food advertised as low fat or fat-free often contains added sugars to offset the missing fat.
Combat cravings by:
- Eating more protein: Animal and plant-based protein sources can help regulate the appetite.
- Snacking on fresh fruits: People who experience intense sugar carvings can satisfy their sweet tooth with a piece of fresh fruit. Unlike candy bars and cookies, fruits contain naturally occurring sugars and fiber.
- Getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep may cause cravings for unhealthful foods
How to be Migraine Pro?
Understanding migraine enables you to cope with and potentially anticipate migraine attacks.
Join our #MigraineBuddy Community and work towards a migraine-free life! This will also help you to know what to expect for your migraine doctor appointment. Start tracking migraine now and live the best life you can as a #MigraineWarrior.
