RFK: 8 artificial dyes to be eliminated from food
FILE – U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the banning of more than half a dozen synthetic food dyes is just the beginning as he works to confront America’s chronic health crisis.
For the 39 million Americans who suffer from migraines, finding effective relief can be a constant struggle – leading many to test out old wives’ tales. Some claim that applying potato slices to the forehead helps kill the complex headaches, while others submerge their feet in hot water in a desperate search for relief. Another remedy? Sipping soda, particularly Coke, is said to cure migraines. But does it really work?
FILE – Plastic bottle pouring cola into a glass. Getty Images
Dr. Kay Kennis, a general practitioner in England and a trustee for the Migraine Trust, pointed out that caffeine is the main substance in sodas that may help some migraine sufferers. “The caffeine in Coke can act as a nerve disruptor, [as] a substance that affects nerve activity,” the expert told Fox News Digital. “For some, that disturbance works in a positive way.”
Kennis added, “There are some painkillers that people take for migraine that have caffeine – and some do respond well to that – but we don’t fully know why.” However, it’s essential to note that caffeine can also be a trigger for migraines. Too much caffeine consumption can exacerbate the situation, leading to more frequent headaches.
Blake Livingood, a doctor of natural medicine based in North Carolina, echoed these sentiments. He noted that caffeine can impact blood flow to the brain, potentially providing relief. “Caffeine can constrict blood vessels and change blood flow to the brain, which might help if your headache is related to dilation of those vessels,” he said. But he firmly stated, “the idea that soda actually cures or prevents migraines – no, it doesn’t.”
Livingood also pointed to the viral “McMigraine” remedy, which suggests that sipping Coke and eating McDonald’s fries can solve headache woes. He explained that the combination of salt, caffeine, and sugar may indeed influence circulation and electrolytes. “That’s partly why grabbing fries with your soda sometimes seems to help,” he said, noting the unique interplay of these substances.
Yet, he insists there are far healthier methods for achieving these effects. He advocates for fruit, nuts, and even organic coffee as superior alternatives. “Organic coffee is a better caffeine source,” is his primary recommendation, also suggesting watermelon for hydration and electrolytes, especially when sprinkled with a pinch of salt.
Notably, magnesium has emerged as a promising preventive measure for many migraine sufferers. Livingood emphasizes the importance of electrolytes, including sodium and potassium. He advocates for using mined salt or sea salt in lieu of regular table salt, asserting that these options may better support blood flow and contribute positively to migraine management.
Norbert Heuser, an entrepreneur and author, adds to the discourse by cautioning against reliance on sugary beverages for migraine relief. He states, “Migraines are complex and often tied to inflammation, dehydration, toxins like heavy metals and chemicals, or even environmental stressors.” Furthermore, Heuser notes that the high sugar content and artificial additives found in sodas can worsen these underlying conditions over time. “It’s a quick fix that ignores the root causes – and may even fuel them,” he concludes.
In summary, while soda, specifically Coke, might offer temporary relief or some comfort to certain individuals suffering from migraines, experts largely agree that it is not a reliable solution. Understanding the nuances of how caffeine works, and considering healthier alternatives, can pave the way for more effective management of this debilitating condition.
