Latest news with #McMigraine
New York Post
05-07-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Doctors weigh in on whether or not bubbly drinks can relieve migraines
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? 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.' Caffeine can be a trigger for migraines as well, said the doctor, who advised that too much caffeine consumption can cause 'a worse situation in the long run.' 3 People turn to the old wives' tales that soda, particularly Coke, for a migraine cure. tongpatong – 3 'The caffeine in Coke can act as a nerve disruptor, [as] a substance that affects nerve activity,' Dr. Kay Kennis, a general practitioner and a trustee for the Migraine Trust, said. 'For some, that disturbance works in a positive way.' Maria Vitkovska – Blake Livingood, a doctor of natural medicine (DC) based in North Carolina, also noted the impact of caffeine during an interview with Fox News Digital. Caffeine can impact blood flow to the brain, he said, which may provide 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. 3 According to Kennis, caffeine can also be a trigger for migraines, advising that too much of it can cause 'a worse situation in the long run.' – 'But the idea that soda actually cures or prevents migraines – no, it doesn't.' 'Watermelon can give you good electrolytes and improve blood flow, especially if you sprinkle a little salt on it, which also happens to taste great.' Livingood also acknowledged the viral 'McMigraine' remedy that claims sipping Coke and eating McDonald's fries is an effective solution. 'If you look at those ingredients – salt, caffeine, and sugar – they can have an impact on blood flow to the head,' he said. 'That's partly why grabbing fries with your soda sometimes seems to help. The salt in the fries, the sugar and the caffeine combined can change circulation and electrolytes.' But he said there are much healthier ways to get those benefits, ranging from fruit to nuts to organic coffee. 'Organic coffee is a better caffeine source,' Livingood recommended. 'Watermelon can give you good electrolytes and improve blood flow, especially if you sprinkle a little salt on it, which also happens to taste great.' The health expert has also seen success in using magnesium to prevent migraines. He said electrolytes and sodium are key components in prevention and recovery as well, in addition to potassium. Livingood also advised migraine sufferers to try mined salt and sea salt instead of regular table salt. 'Any form of salt can impact blood flow and electrolytes, but there are better sources,' he said. 'Sprinkling good-quality salt on watermelon or nuts or even adding a pinch to your water is a healthier way to get those minerals.' Norbert Heuser, an entrepreneur and author of the book 'Coffee Addiction & Caffeinism,' also told Fox News Digital he doesn't recommend relying on sugary beverages for migraine relief. 'Migraines are complex and often tied to inflammation, dehydration, toxins like heavy metals and chemicals, or even environmental stressors such as EMF [electromagnetic radiation] from cell phones, WiFi and other sources,' the health and wellness advocate said. Heuser added, 'The high sugar content and artificial additives in sodas and energy drinks can actually make these underlying issues worse over time. It's a quick fix that ignores the root causes – and may even fuel them.'
Arabian Post
17-06-2025
- Health
- Arabian Post
Coke‑and‑Fries Combo Offers Migraine Momentary Relief
Arabian Post Staff Medical experts confirm that consuming a large Coca‑Cola with salty fries can temporarily ease migraine symptoms in some individuals, though they warn the remedy is no substitute for comprehensive treatment. At the heart of the trend—dubbed the 'McMigraine meal'—are the physiological effects of caffeine, salt, carbohydrates and sugar, which may tackle certain migraine triggers, according to neurologists and neuroscientists interviewed by reputable health outlets. Caffeine in cola induces vasoconstriction, countering the vasodilation linked to migraine pain, a mechanism also harnessed in combination OTC medications such as Excedrin. Dr Jessica Lowe stated that caffeine can interrupt migraine progression by narrowing blood vessels, while the sodium in fries helps retain fluids—a potential relief during dehydration-induced migraine phases—accompanied by a glucose boost from the fries and soda. ADVERTISEMENT Professor Amanda Ellison of Durham University explains that during the migraine prodrome—when individuals may crave sweets and salts—this combination aligns with premature biological response to prodromal imbalances of electrolytes, blood sugar, hormones and hydration levels. Dr Joy and Ludlam‑Raine, writing for Healthline, point out that carbohydrate and salt intake may correct early-stage blood sugar dips and electrolyte loss. Despite physiological plausibility, experts caution the benefits are often transient. High sugar and sodium intake may exacerbate inflammation or create spikes followed by crashes, while caffeine overuse may reduce medication responsiveness and trigger dependency. Juliette Preston of Oregon Health and Science University advises that excessive caffeine—and sodium—can worsen symptoms long-term and undermine migraine resilience. Controlled studies suggest moderate caffeine intake is generally harmless for episodic migraine sufferers, whereas consuming three or more servings heightens the risk of migraine onset the same day or the next. This caution echoes findings from BIDMC and Harvard researchers. Longitudinal cohorts commissioned by the American Migraine Foundation show acute doses are comparable with analgesics but habitual high consumption correlates with increased headache frequency. Nonetheless, a state‐of‐the‐art prospective cohort from Harvard, involving 97 adults over six weeks, found no significant link between habitual caffeine intake and migraine frequency or severity—indicating that occasional consumption may pose limited risk, though withdrawal episodes warrant caution. Meanwhile, migraine‑Canada researchers recommend total cessation in frequent sufferers—reporting a 72 per cent reduction in migraine frequency upon complete elimination, compared to 40 per cent from partial reduction. Experts agree that hydration, adequate sleep and stress control remain the cornerstone of migraine defence, with medical advice emphasising the importance of prophylactic strategies and diagnostic work‑ups rather than quick dietary fixes. Juliette Preston recommends electrolyte‑enhanced water over fast food in the throes of an attack—a more sustainable alternative. Practical guidance has emerged from clinicians interviewed: caffeine consumed in moderation—up to 200 mg daily—is likely safe, yet reliance on sodas laden with sugar and sodium may precipitate metabolic health concerns and even instigate headaches through rebound effects. Dr Shae Datta from NYU Langone underscores that while carbonation may assist nausea and caffeine may alleviate pain, diabetic individuals or those with cardiac conditions should avoid regular soda consumption. She advises that dependence on fizzy beverages or OTC meds warrants specialist migraine consultation. Clinicians further note that individuals may instinctively reach for cola and fries during the prodrome or aura stages—self‑medicating subconscious physiology. Yet, once the pain stage arrives, nausea and sensitivity often preclude food intake, rendering the remedy impractical. For those exploring home‑based migraine interventions, neurologists encourage self‑monitoring through headache diaries, and adopting evidence‑based measures such as magnesium supplementation and structured sleep schedules, alongside professional treatment when warranted.
Yahoo
08-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Does the ‘McMigraine meal' really help with headaches? TikTok thinks so
Migraine sufferers have heard it all: ice hats, essential oils, ginger tea. The latest advice? Head to McDonald's and order a large Coca-Cola and fries, dubbed the 'McMigraine meal.' The household auto fleet is a money pit Why AI Is Making 1:1 Meetings Irrelevant Why you're catching the 'ick' so easily, according to science One viral video with 5.7 million views reads: 'Trying McDonald's chips and a Diet Coke because I've had a headache for 48 hours and TikTok said it would help.' In the caption, the TikTok creator confirmed the hack worked. Another posted, 'the migraine girls get it' while pulling up to a McDonald's drive-through. A third asked, 'can someone please explain why the McMigraine always works?' While TikTok health hacks should be taken with a generous pinch of salt, this one may have some basis in science. 'This is a hack that's relatively well known in the migraine community,' neurologist and fellow migraine sufferer Jessica Lowe (@doctorbrainbarbie), explained in a TikTok video with 9.3 million views. 'A large coke from Mcdonalds has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it. That right there is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks.' Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor—meaning it narrows blood vessels, which helps counter the dilation that occurs during a migraine. The fries offer both electrolytes and carbohydrates. 'Mcdonalds is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around,' Lowe added. Electrolytes can ease migraine symptoms tied to dehydration or low sodium, while carbs may help if the trigger is hunger or a drop in blood sugar. Still, proceed with caution. For some people, caffeine and fast food can trigger migraines rather than relieve them. Dr. Kay Kennis, a trustee for the Migraine Trust and a GP who specializes in migraines, told the BBC that McDonald's food may also contain high levels of tyramine—a known potential trigger. If you're struggling with migraines, consult your healthcare provider to explore treatment options. But if you're craving McDonald's in the meantime, go for it—you just might get some relief. This post originally appeared at to get the Fast Company newsletter:
Health Line
07-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
‘McMigraine': Does TikTok's Coke and Fries Hack Actually Work for Migraine?
TikTok users are touting a migraine hack involving McDonald's fries and a Coke to relieve their symptoms. Experts say the combination of salt, sugar, and caffeine may provide temporary relief from migraine. However, processed foods high in sodium, fat, and sugar may worsen migraine symptoms and contribute to long-term health problems. Several strategies may support migraine relief, such as magnesium and omega-3s. It's estimated that 39 million people in the United States experience migraine. If you're one of them, you may have heard of the 'McMigraine meal,' a proposed migraine relief hack trending on social media platforms like TikTok that involves consuming McDonald's fries and a Coke. A migraine is more than just a bad headache. It's a complex neurological condition often accompanied by intense, throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea, which can be debilitating. While there are medications available to prevent and treat migraine, they don't work for everyone. When a migraine attack hits, most people will do anything to feel better, even if it means consuming ultraprocessed foods like fries and a soda laden with sugar. Here's how the McMigraine trend works, and what experts think about its supposed benefits. A McMigraine meal: Not a reliable cure Kezia Joy, registered dietitian and medical advisor at Welzo, said it's important to distinguish between anecdotal evidence and clinical recommendations for any ailment, including migraine. 'Although the concept may be based on real-life experiences, it's not grounded in clinical research. It may provide temporary solace for some, but it's not something that should be in anyone's regular or safe migraine treatment repertoire,' she told Healthline. Likewise, specialist registered dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine agreed, cautioning that fries and a Coke are not a reliable treatment. 'While I completely understand that people living with migraine may be desperate to try anything that offers relief, this isn't a strategy I'd recommend trying frequently from a nutritional or clinical perspective,' she told Healthline. McMigraine benefits are short-lived Many people have claimed a McMigraine meal helped relieve their migraine symptoms. Is there any plausible scientific reason why salty fries and a sugary drink might offer temporary relief for some people with migraine? Joy noted a few physiological reasons why someone might experience temporary relief after eating salty, high carb foods and drinking caffeine. 'Caffeine, which is present in Coke, constricts blood vessels, and in some forms of migraines, it can relieve pain,' Joy explained. 'At the same time, high-salt or high-carbohydrate foods may aid in correcting a mild electrolyte or blood sugar imbalance,' she continued. 'If a person has missed a meal or is just a little dehydrated, the fries and soda may provide temporary relief.' Ludlam-Raine shared a similar synopsis of the potential benefits of a McMigraine meal. 'Migraines can be triggered or worsened by low blood sugar, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances, and so salty fries may help the body retain fluid, while the caffeine and sugar in a Coke could raise blood sugar and offer a quick boost in alertness or energy,' she pointed out. Ultimately, though, Ludlam-Raine said the benefits are likely to be short-lived and won't address the root cause of the problem. In fact, for some people with migraine, the combination of salt, sugar, and caffeine could worsen their symptoms. 'High-fat and salt foods can be problematic for others, especially if their migraines are linked to dietary triggers or underlying conditions like high blood pressure,' Ludlam-Raine noted. Does a McMigraine meal have any risks? The potential to worsen migraine symptoms aside, there are other risks to consider when using unhealthy foods as a migraine cure. 'Fast food may be convenient, but it can also be high in sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars,' Joy said. 'If consuming it becomes habitual, it can create inflammation in the body, which in turn, can make headaches worse over time.' There are other long-term health risks to consider, too. 'Relying on fast food regularly may contribute to long-term health issues like weight gain, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and poor gut health, all of which can potentially worsen migraine frequency or severity,' Ludlam-Raine said. Additionally, it may discourage people from addressing triggers and other factors that contribute to migraine attacks.' 'Excessive reliance on fast food as a fix can also skirt any underlying health issues that need to be diagnosed and treated,' Joy pointed out. 'Relying on it instead of seeking out treatments that work and are sustainable isn't good. It's also important to see food in the context of your entire lifestyle, not as a quick fix.' Evidence-based migraine interventions There are many strategies for managing a migraine that don't involve ordering from a McDonald's drive-thru. Joy said there are some specific nutrients you should look out for, such as magnesium. 'It's present in leafy greens and nuts, is involved in nerve functions, and can reduce the frequency of migraine in some people,' she explained. Other nutrients may offer some relief from migraine as well. 'Riboflavin-rich foods (vitamin B2) and co-enzyme Q10 have also been investigated for their potential benefits,' Joy said. 'Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, may also reduce inflammation and support brain health.' According to Ludlam-Raine, other ways to prevent and manage migraine include: staying hydrated throughout the day eating regular, balanced meals that include slow-release carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to maintain steady blood sugar levels avoiding specific triggers like aged cheese, alcohol, or artificial sweeteners keeping a food and symptom diary to identify personal patterns While certain wellness strategies can help prevent migraine, they may not be able to stop one in progress, which could explain why some people have turned to a McMigraine meal for relief. Clinical treatment for a migraine generally involves both acute and preventive options. 'Drugs, including triptans, CGRP inhibitors, and some anti-seizure and blood pressure drugs, can help some people,' Joy said. 'Non-pharmacologic treatments, like biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, and neuromodulation devices, can also be effective.' Migraine symptoms can be debilitating, and when they strike, it may be tempting to seek the quickest and most convenient intervention. For some, that might be McDonald's fries and a Coke.
Daily Mail
21-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
You MIGHT be able to cure migraines with a McDonald's, say experts
A particular McDonald's food and drink combination may be able to ease migraine symptoms, experts say. It comes after a video of a woman sampling the supposed headache cure - dubbed the McMigraine meal - went viral. Since then, hundreds of TikTok users have confirmed that the order - consisting of a large Coke and fries - can stop migraine symptoms 'immediately'. Although it might be a stretch to hail the sweet and salty combination as a miracle cure, the claim appears to have some truth to it. Dr Amanda Ellison, a professor in neuroscience at Durham University, told The Times caffeine, complex sugars, salt and carbohydrates all help to alleviate the symptoms of a severe headache. A large number of headaches are caused by the blood vessels around the brain dilating to increase oxygen flow, but caffeine will restrict these blood vessels, Ms Ellison explained. She added: 'The sugar helps because generally with any kind of pain, but also with migraine, your sugars are all over the place, your hormones are all over the place, your electrolytes are all over the place … and generally we see this with people with migraine a lot earlier than they actually have pain.' Since then hundreds of TikTok users have confirmed that the order - consisting of a large Coke and fries - can stop migraine symptoms 'immediately' (stock image) TikTok user @MillyHancockk's video went viral after she put the theory to the test. She captioned the clip: 'Trying McDonald's chips and a Diet Coke because I've had a headache for 48 hours and TikTok said it would help.' In the caption, she added: 'Can confirm it works' along with a laughing crying emoji. The TikToker, whose clip has been viewed nearly 4 million times, drew in hordes of commentators, many of whom came to confirm the hack works for them as well. One person commented: 'I work in neurology and our headache specialist literally recommends this to patients'. Another added: 'I know it's just the salt and caffeine but every time I have a migraine or even one coming on I get a coke and a fry and it's immediately cured'. A third explained: 'So basically Coke & fries help headaches because caffeine tightens blood vessels, sugar boost blood glucose, and salty carbs rebalance electrolytes.' Others suggested slight amendments to the hack. 'As a diet coke lover and migraine sufferer, diet won't do it you need the regular coke,' one said. 'Whoever told you Diet Coke was playing, it's gotta be a full fat and salty chips. Works everytime,' another added. But, although the meal might help ease a headache, it is unlikely that migraine sufferers would actually be able to stomach a large meal during the pain stage of a true migraine attack, according to Ms Ellison. And, there is also the potential for caffeine, salt and fast food to cause a migraine, David Walker, a headache specialist at Rush University Medical Center, told Verywell. 'It's great that this helps certain individuals. I don't think it should be generalized because on the flip side of things, fried foods can trigger migraines,' Walker said. Migraine v headache, how to tell the difference A migraine is usually a moderate or severe headache felt as a throbbing pain on one side of the head. It is a common health condition, affecting around one in every five women and around one in every 15 men. They usually begin in early adulthood. There are several types of migraine, some have warning signs such as flashing lights in vision others don't. Some people have migraines frequently, up to several times a week while others can have years between attacks. You should see a GP if you have frequent or severe migraine symptoms, classified by the NHS as on more than five days a month. The exact cause of migraines is unknown but they are thought be the result of temporary changes in the chemicals, nerves and blood vessels in the brain. Some sufferers know certain triggers like particular food or drinks or stress can cause or increase the risk of a migraine. The NHS says there is no cure for migraines though certain medications and behaviour changes can reduce the symptoms or frequency of attacks.
