10 natural remedies for headaches

By Nutrition Consultant Jessica Robinson

If you are reading this I’m sure that at some point in your life you have experienced some form of a headache, whether it be a slight headache, debilitating headache or maybe you even suffer from chronic headaches? Whichever form of headache you have experienced, we can all agree that they are an annoyance and for some people it can have a huge impact on their quality of life.

Generally, headaches are caused by a combination of nerve signals that are sent from the blood vessels and muscles in the head. There are many possible triggers for headaches such as: dehydration, hormonal imbalances, liver dysfunction, high blood pressure, food allergies/sensitivities, blood sugar problems, stress, eyestrain or back strain, and exposure to chemical toxins.

Below are some natural tips for combating headaches:

1. Stay hydrated

Many individuals simply don’t drink enough water. Staying hydrated is a cheap and easy remedy that can leave you feeling full, energised and headache-free. All headache sufferers should ensure they are drinking plenty of water. Aim to drink 8 to 10 glasses a day to improve circulation of blood to the brain. Being dehydrated can increase the frequency and severity of headaches.

2. Avoid inflammatory foods

It is best to steer clear of common trigger foods such as chocolate, dairy products, wheat, preservatives, MSG, sugar, yeast, tobacco and alcohol. You may have a food allergy or intolerance/sensitivity to one of these foods that is responsible for your headaches, so be sure to monitor your reaction to these foods.

3. Go raw

Try to include more raw foods in your diet, particularly radishes, celery and foods high in omega-3 oils such as oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. Eating raw foods tends to reduce headaches as raw foods are free of additives, caffeine and added sugar.

4. Have protein with every meal

Eating a protein source such as eggs, seafood, chicken, lean meat, protein powder or nuts and seeds with every meal will help to stabilise blood sugar levels and keep headaches at bay.

5. Stretch it out

Staying in the same spot for a long period of time, such as sitting at your desk or computer, can contribute to body tension and cause headaches. Make sure to take a break every 30 to 60 minutes – stretch and move your head and neck around in a circular motion. This action will help to alleviate built up stress and relieve headaches.

6. Meditate

Not only is meditation beneficial for mental, emotional and physical problems, but meditation can also relieve headaches. Meditation works to relax your entire body, which relieves muscle tension that can alleviate headaches. Meditation focuses on the mind-body connection, and by practicing meditation you can improve your overall quality of life.

7. Have some magnesium

Magnesium is required for a healthy nervous system and muscles and may ease muscle spasm and cramps. Magnesium can be found in green leafy vegetables, avocados, apples, bananas, almonds and cashews.

8. Try chiropractic therapy

Seeing a chiropractor may help you reduce oxidative stress in the body. Chiropractic adjustments or spinal manipulation can assist in relieving stress throughout your body. Studies have suggested that chiropractic manipulation can reduce tension and migraine headaches.

9. Get moving

Having a headache may not inspire the motivation to be active, but going outside for a walk or light jog can help loosen up the tight muscles that are causing your headache. Participating in exercise also causes endorphins to be released which can help alleviate the pain associated with headaches.

10. Sip chamomile tea

Chamomile tea may provide relief for migraine headaches as it is a mild sedative with other relaxing qualities. Not unlike other herbal teas, it acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps to relieve muscle spasms.

Check out Dr Cabot’s book ‘Raw Juices Can Save Your Life’ for juicing recipes to help with headaches and migraines.