Millions of people in the UK suffer from migraines, a common but often debilitating condition. And while prescription medications can help ease the pain, there are also certain home remedies that can make a significant difference in managing symptoms.
Incorporating specific foods into one’s diet can alleviate the symptoms of migraines, according to Food Expert Phil Bianchi, from The Gift Of Oil. He advocates for the efficacy of a well-known kitchen essential, stating: “Extra virgin olive oil and the Mediterranean diet has a huge range of health benefits when regularly included in your diet.
“The Mediterranean diet includes olive oil as the primary fat source, and a new study has shown that following a Mediterranean diet, rich in healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, may help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. Oleocanthal, the powerful polythene found in olive oil, also has anti-inflammatory properties can assist with pain relief when suffering from a migraine.”
When considering olive oil for its therapeutic potential, Bianchi emphasizes the choice of product, clarifying: “Ideally, you need to drink an oil containing at least 250mg of polyphenol per kg of oil, such as this Sicilian Olive Oil, on a daily basis to benefit.”
“Once you’ve found the right oil, it’s recommended to try drinking around 20mls, or a tablespoon, each morning on an empty stomach and waiting 20 minutes before eating or drinking anything else. This allows the Oleocanthal to be absorbed into the bloodstream to work their magic, resulting in a whole host of health benefits.”
However, olive oil is not the only potential migraine alleviator on your shelves. Indeed, dark chocolate joins the fray with its health advantages, reports Surrey Live.
Detailing the positive impacts, Phil said: “Magnesium is probably one of the most important nutrients that can potentially fight migraine symptoms. So foods such as dark chocolate that are rich in magnesium are a great way to relieve migraine symptoms.
“Dark chocolate can actually contribute to relaxation and decreased stress too, all helping to alleviate migraines.”
The expert also suggested ginger tea, figs, and spinach as foods to try if you find yourself plagued by migraine pain.
But when it comes to coffee, Phil shared a word of caution, explaining: “While it is known to help with migraines, it can also cause them. Too much caffeine can be a trigger for some people’s migraines, although everyone is different.
“If you’re trying this one, have a less caffeinated coffee in a small amount to begin with and see how you feel after.”