Did you know that migraines affect at least 39 million people in the U.S. and over a billion people worldwide? Migraines are the third-most prevalent illness in the world and impact about a quarter of households in America. But despite how common they are, migraines still remain somewhat of a mystery, with many misconceptions about how they should be treated.
Here are some natural tips and strategies for dealing with migraines to manage your pain and symptoms the drug-free way.
Try Acupuncture or Acupressure
Acupuncture and acupressure are alternative forms of medicine that can really make a big difference for migraine sufferers. Whether you choose the option that involves needles or just applying pressure to specific points with the hands and fingers, certain places on the body can be targeted by a trained professional for chronic migraine relief.
Drink More Water
Hydration is important for all people, but especially if you are a migraine sufferer. When the body becomes dehydrated, it is more prone to headaches and migraines. When you already have a migraine, drinking water may help to reduce your symptoms.
Use Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oils
Essential oils have a way of impacting both physical and mental health, and a couple of them have been studied for their potential with migraines. If you are prone to migraines, get some lavender and peppermint essential oils to try. You can put a few drops in a diffuser in your home or apply the oil to your temples. Lavender tea and mint tea can have similar effects.
Avoid Nitrate-Rich Foods
Foods that are high in nitrates are connected to triggering migraines, especially highly processed foods that have no business being in a natural diet anyway. This includes hot dogs, deli meats, sausage, and bacon. Nitrates have a way of expanding blood vessels, which may cause head pain.
Eat More Ginger
Ginger is known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits, but studies show that it may help people with migraines too. While prescription drugs for migraines often come with side effects, eating ginger can have similar effects for reducing the duration and severity of migraine headaches.
Practice Yoga and Meditation
Relaxation is essential for migraine prevention, so sign up for a yoga class or try a yoga app on your smartphone to improve body posture and promote overall health. Meditating on a regular basis, or at least on your toughest days, is a good way to fight stress and make your body less prone to migraines.
Consume More Magnesium
Another dietary suggestion for migraine sufferers is to eat more foods that are rich in magnesium. Many people who have magnesium deficiencies also have migraines, leading researchers to believe there’s a connection here. To get more magnesium in your days, focus your attention on common trail mix ingredients and eat more almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, and sesame seeds.
Get More Exercise
There are countless benefits to getting more exercise, and migraine prevention is one of them. Easy cardiovascular activity, such as walking and indoor cycling, are effective ways to help the body relax and reduce headache frequency.