Headaches can occur due to several factors. From tension, dehydration to hormonal changes, eye strain, and certain medical conditions, it could be anything. But did you know eating too much sugar-based foods can also cause headaches? In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Edwina Raj, Senior Dietitian, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, explains why it occurs and how it can be relieved.
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Can Excess Sugar Cause Headaches?
Excessive sugar intake can potentially contribute to headaches in some individuals, according to Dr Raj. Consuming high amounts of sugar can lead to rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which can trigger headaches or migraines in individuals at risk. Additionally, a diet high in sugar is often associated with poor overall nutrition, which can contribute to headaches and other health issues.
Medical News Today suggests changes in blood sugar levels can occur if a person eats a lot of sugar at once, and then refrains from it for a while, leading to something called a “sugar crash.” This can cause a headache. However, it is worth noting that not everyone is sensitive to sugar in this way, and individual responses can vary.
The Cause
Dr Raj explained, “"Excess or low blood sugar both can cause headache, for instance indulging in high amounts of sugar-based desserts/chocolates may give you a sugar rush which results in increased levels of certain hormones causing brain vessel blockage leading to headache. These are also known as sugar headaches and sugar hangovers; which are common among hyperglycaemic patients (diabetics).”
“Sugar consumption in moderation should not cause any headaches, however sudden increase in consumption may lead to an increase in glucose levels, hence causing migraine headaches,” she added.
In addition, sugary foods and drinks often lack proper hydration. Excessive sugar intake can lead to increased urination, which can deplete your body's water levels and potentially cause dehydration, which in turn is known to trigger headaches in some people.
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There’s Something Called A Sugar Withdrawal Headache
Sugar withdrawal headache occurs when a person suddenly and abruptly lowers or limits their sugar intake after consuming high amounts of sugar for a prolonged period. When you consume a lot of sugar regularly, your body becomes accustomed to the constant influx of glucose. Sugar stimulates the release of dopamine, a hormone associated with pleasure and reward, creating a temporary feeling of well-being. However, when you suddenly cut back on sugar or eliminate it altogether, your body may require time to adjust to the change.
What To Do
Here are some ways to avoid sugar headaches:
- Eat balanced meals
- Choosing unprocessed, complex carbs, such as in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- If you have diabetes, follow the doctor’s advice on managing diabetes
- Exercise regularly
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
If you suffer from such headaches, here’s what you can do:
- Stay hydrated
- Increase fresh vegetables and fruits intake
- Avoid highly processed food that is high in carbohydrates and low in protein
- Have an active lifestyle and exercise for at least 30 minutes a day
- Keep your stress levels low and catch up on at least 8 hours of sound sleep
Conclusion
Sugar-triggered headaches are real. Do not consume too much and if you’re aware about the excessive sugar you consume and think that it's too much, cut back on it slowly, not suddenly.