Not all headaches are caused by the same thing – hangovers, we’re looking at you – which means that not every headache can be cured the same way.
But identifying why your head is pounding can help you decide which nutrient your body is craving, and which of these healing foods you should be tucking into.
Baked potato: Yes, it’s time to get carb-y, especially if your headache is alcohol-related. If you indulged in one too many wines last night, you’ll not only be dehydrated but could also have lost plenty of electrolytes – like potassium. Loading up on foods packed with potassium (a baked potato with skin on contains 721 mg of the stuff) can set you on the path to recovery, quicksticks.
Watermelon: Dehydration is usually to blame when your head starts pounding, so upping your water intake is an important first step. Nibble on water-rich foods like the aptly named watermelon, as well as cucumber, melon and tomatoes. Delicious watermelon and mint granita is a soothing hit of hydration.
Watermelon and mint granita
Whole-grains: Sticking with the carbohydrate theme: if your diet has been low on carbs lately, you may have depleted your glycogen stores. That, in turn, triggers an increase in fluid losses, which can lead to dehydration. Plus, healthy carbohydrates help your body release serotonin, which will improve your mood. Win-win! Start your day with a warming bowl of apple and banana porridge.
Almonds: Nuts are being increasingly celebrated for their health benefits and almonds are no different. They’re packed with magnesium, which relaxes blood vessels and soothes headaches; grab a 30 gram handful for a headache-healing snack.
Yoghurt: Your brain needs calcium to function efficiently, so your headache could be your body’s way of telling you it needs more of this essential nutrient. Yoghurt is also a great source of probiotics, which helps to keep your gut happy, too.
Spinach: Get some greens on your plate! Spinach and other leafy green vegetables have been shown to decrease blood pressure – and may even prevent hangovers. Spinach is rich in anti-oxidants as well, and is a great way to up your iron intake if you follow a meat-free diet. Whip up pasta with spinach, mushrooms and almonds.
Sesame seeds: Not only are these crunchy little nuggets another great source of magnesium, they’re rich in vitamin E, which can help prevent migraines during menstruation. If you find your head pounding while you have your period, try nibbling on ginger and sesame seed logs.
Coffee: No, we’re not giving you permission to spend the day sinking soy lattes, but coffee can relax blood vessels and alleviate a headache. Don’t go overboard though; too much java can lead to dehydration. Kick the headache with one, delicious cup and then sip on plenty of water.
This story originally appeared on Food To Love.
