Headaches during weight loss
Sometimes having a headache does not cause serious suffering and can be treated using natural remedies. However, the problem arises when it becomes an everyday occurrence! In addition, those who are trying to lose weight often get headaches.
HealthShots spoke to Dr Brahm Datt Pathak, Director General of Surgery, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, to find out how headaches can be relieved while dieting and losing weight. First, let’s read why it happens!
Can Weight Loss Cause Headaches?
Headaches are a common condition that many people deal with on a daily basis. But those trying to lose weight are more likely to go through it. Dr. Says Pathak, “Headaches can be a painful side effect of your weight loss efforts. It can occur for a variety of reasons, including vitamin deficiencies due to diet, a diet that is deficient in calories, skipping meals, stress, lack of hydration or even an irregular sleep pattern, which is why sticking to a healthy weight loss plan is crucial.Whatever the cause, there are plenty of ways to reduce headache symptoms.
Here are 12 tips to avoid weight loss headaches:
1. Exercising For A Diet: Start at least a week after you start exercising to let your body get used to the routine
2. Don’t Skip Breakfast: First, skipping meals is not the right way to lose weight. This can result in a lower metabolism, less energy in your body and headaches due to the lack of calories in your body.
3. Limit Alcohol: If you are prone to headaches and migraine attacks, you should not drink alcohol. Alcohol is known to aggravate or cause pain. So limit consumption.
Read also: Gas headache? Try these 5 home remedies
4. Increase Intake Of High Fiber Foods: According to a small 2014 study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain, participants had relief from migraine symptoms from a low-fat, high-fiber diet consisting exclusively of plant foods.
5. Don’t Compromise On Protein: While the benefits of protein in managing headaches have not yet been proven, a diet deficient in protein may make them worse. So make sure you get enough protein.
6. Food and Drink: Green leafy vegetables, nuts, oily fish, fruits and seeds are the most commonly consumed meals and drinks that can relieve headaches. High-salt foods such as potato chips, processed foods, aged cheeses, smoked or cured salmon, cultured dairy products, and foods high in carbohydrates and sugar should be avoided.
7. Drink Water: Drinking enough water is essential for better overall health. Insufficient hydration leads to headaches and many other health problems. Fatigue, a feeling of discomfort and a very dry mouth are other signs of dehydration.
8. Relax And Relieve Stress: Headaches are more common when you are stressed. You should seek medical attention if you are dealing with a severe headache, fever, and vision problems.
9. Stop Excessively Restricting Your Calorie Intake: You go into calorie deficit mode when you eat fewer calories. A research article published in PubMed Central claims that being in a calorie deficit can help you lose weight. But it can also lead to some problems, such as headaches.
10. Avoid Foods High In Histamine: Histamine present in foods such as tuna, spinach, wine, cheese, fermented foods and eggplant. This compound is known to cause vascular headaches.
11. Relax With Yoga/Meditation: The practice of yoga and meditation is known to relieve stress and calm the mind. Therefore, it can help manage headaches.
12. Chew Basil Leaves: Chewing 7-8 basil leaves relieves headaches and relaxes your muscles as they have analgesic, sedative effects.
take away
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also essential for managing headaches. You should not rely solely on prescription drugs for relief. Address the stressors in your life, as they are a common source of headaches. Eat a balanced, healthy diet, do not skip meals, drink plenty of water every day, sleep regularly and exercise regularly. These measures can be taken by anyone and help prevent headaches and/or reduce discomfort.