Most people who live with migraines know to avoid certain drinks that can trigger their attacks. However, some drinks can help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of attacks. It’s worth adding a few to your routine, especially alongside other migraine management methods.
Remember that everyone experiences migraines differently, so some drinks may work and others may not. Experiment and record your observations in a migraine journal to learn what works best for you.
What to Drink for Migraines
The following drinks may be beneficial for people who live with migraines:
1. Water
One of the best drinks for migraines is water. Dehydration is a migraine trigger for at least 33% of sufferers, and even mild dehydration can be a problem. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, and drink more when it's hot, while exercising, or when you're sick.
If you don't like the taste of plain water, try adding fruits or vegetables, such as sliced cucumbers, chopped strawberries, or blueberries.
2. Coconut Water
Electrolytes are minerals that help maintain fluid levels in the body. Your electrolyte levels can become unbalanced after heavy sweating or when you're sick. This can lead to dehydration, which often worsens migraines. Electrolyte drinks can help you quickly replenish electrolytes when you're dehydrated and reduce the likelihood of a migraine attack.
While sports drinks are an option, one of the best electrolyte drinks for migraines is coconut water. It generally contains less added sugar and artificial sweeteners, which can trigger migraines in some people. 3. Decaffeinated Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, which some people find helps relieve migraine pain. For others, caffeine can trigger migraine attacks. Excessive coffee consumption also increases the risk of developing migraines due to caffeine withdrawal.
If you love the taste of coffee but it triggers migraines, consider decaffeinated coffee. It contains almost no caffeine and is rich in antioxidants, which may help prevent diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. If you drink coffee regularly, be sure to gradually reduce your intake to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
4. Tea
Various teas can also help relieve migraine pain and discomfort, including:
Green Tea: Green tea has a much lower caffeine content than regular coffee, making it an excellent alternative if small amounts of caffeine provide relief. It also contains antioxidants and offers numerous health benefits.
Ginger tea: Ginger is known to relieve nausea, a common migraine symptom.
Turmeric tea: Turmeric tea contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. More research is needed to determine curcumin's potential role in pain relief, but current findings appear promising.
5. Green Smoothies
Green smoothies contain leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens. These vegetables are rich in vitamin B9 (folate) and magnesium, which may be beneficial for people with migraines. People with migraines are also known to have lower magnesium levels, and increasing magnesium intake may help reduce deficiencies associated with migraine with aura.
Some smoothie ingredients even have anti-inflammatory effects that may be helpful in managing certain symptoms. 6. Fruit Juice
Another way to prevent nutritional deficiencies that could worsen migraine symptoms is to drink fruit juice, such as orange, grape, or grapefruit. Choose 100% natural juice, made directly from fruit, as it usually has a higher nutritional content and less added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Some people find that citrus fruits trigger their migraines due to their high acidity and tyramine content. If citrus fruits cause you problems, opt for pear, apple, or similar juices.
7. Almond Milk
Researchers are still uncertain about the relationship between dairy and migraines, but some studies have found that dairy can worsen them. Instead of using milk, try an alternative like almond milk. Almond milk is dairy-free, has a mild flavor, and is packed with healthy nutrients that support overall well-being, such as magnesium.
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