Do you suffer from migraines or frequent headaches? Instead of popping pill after pill, try a few things in your kitchen! Believe it or not, certain nutrients in foods can actually help fight aches and pains, and possibly even prevent them. In the case of migraine headaches, research suggest that eating fatty fish, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, may lower the production of horome-like chemicals in the body that can cause inflammation and pain.
A study at Brown University found that adolescents who took 1.25 grams of fish oil daily for two months experienced fewer headaches, which were also less sever and didn’t last as long. Try adding fatty fish like salmon, trout, sardines and herring to your diet. Aim for 4 to 6-ounce servings 2 to 3 times a week, or talk to your doctor about taking a supplement.
Research also suggests that 20% of migraine sufferers are sensitive to one of more of the following foods: processed meats, artificial sweeteners, MSG, red wine, chocolate, hard cheeses and citrus. Avoid these foods, or eliminate a few at a time to see what your trigger foods are.
Bonus: Fatty fish may also help reduce cholesterol and lower your risk of heart disease@