Eight Techniques to Cope with Headaches Naturally
- Drink Water
When your body lacks enough fluids a common side effect is a headache. Many specialists claim that this occurs because blood vessels contract in an effort to conserve fluid. So the next time you feel a headache coming on drink water and continue to do so during the course of the day. Also stay away from caffeine drinks such as tea and coffee or alcohol, all of which dehydrate you and prevent your headache from going away.
2. Eat Throughout the Day
Eating small amounts of food throughout the day helps keep your sugar levels balanced, this can help avoid headaches since low sugar levels have been recognized as a possible cause. Eat foods with lots of fiber, proteins and wholegrains.
3. Select Foods High in Magnesium
Various research indicates that people who get headaches, and migraine sufferers in particular, usually have low amounts of magnesium. Magnesium is essential in over 300 reactions in our body, including supporting cells to make energy and in resting muscles. Foods that high levels of magnesium include, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, legumes and wholegrains (rye, oats, quinoa, barley, spelt).
4. Stay Away From Artificial Foods
Ingredients such as MSG (artificial flavor enhancer) and artificial sweeteners can narrow blood vessels and lead to throbbing headaches. MSG is usually labelled as 621 and is used in prepackaged foods such as chips, frozen meals, sauces and other salted snacks. Scientists have also indicated that aspartame might decrease serotonin levels which is part of what causes migraines. Aspartame is used in foods and drinks such as diet soft drinks, artificial sweeteners and chewing gum.
5. Add Heat
Adding heat to the back of your neck can help relieve stress headaches. Heat causes stiff muscles to relax and increases blood flow, so hot showers can help.
6. Massage Frequently
Tension headaches are the most frequently occurring headaches and are usually cause by physical and emotional stress. Stress causes muscles and most of those of the upper bank, head and neck to contract. Massage helps by relaxing these muscles which causes the release of endorphins there by decreasing stress levels.
7. Try Essential Oils
Lavender and peppermint oil may help reduce tension headache pain. Lavender is recognized as being anti-inflammatory, soothing and capable of increasing blood flow. Peppermint has significant pain-relieving properties and has also been shown to help with tension headaches. Try using a few drops in a bowl of steaming water and breathing in the steam. You can also try rubbing the oils around the bottom of your skull or temples.
8. Don’t Slouch
Sitting at a desk all day can cause you to slouch and lead to muscle strain, breathing pattern changes that affect oxygen supply to the brain, circulation and muscles. Making a conscious effort to take frequent breaks will help you, along with regular strength training that focuses on back and core muscles.