Migraines Headache and Gluten – The Connection Explained

Migraines are painful and if you have ever experienced migraine headaches then you must be well aware of its enfeebling effect.

Headaches can be caused by various factors. If we talk about the stats, women experience headaches three times more than men.

Let’s dig deeper to understand migraines, intake of gluten in your diet, and its impact.

What is Migraine?

Migraines are pulsating and recurring pains that typically occur at one side of the head which further leads to nausea and vomiting.

There are many factors that trigger migraines such as – stress, bright light, strong odors, diet, hormonal changes, weather, etc.

Headache V/S Migraine – Know the Difference

Many people can’t understand the difference between the two and usually confuse a headache with a migraine attack.

When you experience headaches you will experience pain in the head, face, neck, etc. but migraines are different from a normal headache and are generally more intense. 

Headaches are usually of two types  – primary headaches and secondary headaches, and migraine is a type of primary headache also referred to as tension headaches.

Gluten and Migraine Headaches – What’s the connection?

Gluten is a type of protein that is found in several grains such as wheat, barley, rye, etc. It is a culprit for people suffering from celiac disease or gluten allergies.

Studies suggest that a celiac or a person who is gluten intolerant, gluten sensitive, or gluten allergic experiences severe migraine attacks as compared to people without these conditions.

Consumption of gluten in your diet can trigger migraine headaches in some people. 

Headaches are linked with your gut and it is observed that people with gastrointestinal disorders experience frequent headaches.

Medical news today states that adapting to a gluten free lifestyle can reduce the frequency of migraine attacks and helps in improving overall health.

Now, as things are clear about migraines, let’s discuss how a gluten free diet can give you relief from unbearable pains.

How does a Gluten Free Diet ease your pain?

Although there are many factors that trigger migraines, studies show that 25% of people suffering from migraines are gluten intolerant. 

Eliminating gluten from your diet can help you reduce the severity of migraine attacks and protect you from its debilitating effect. 

Benefits of a Gluten Free Diet

Here are some of the benefits of having a gluten free diet:

• Improves Your Energy Levels

Switching to a gluten free diet can ease your intestine and boost your energy levels and you will no longer feel tired and drowsy.

• Manage Your Weight

Excluding most of the junk food from your diet and having nutritious and healthy meals ultimately cut down your calories and help you in weight loss. 

• Inflammation

People who are celiac often experience chronic inflammation. Thus, having a gluten free diet can reduce the risks of inflammation and protect your body from further health problems.  

• Eliminates Bloating

Many people experience bloating or excess gas trapped in their digestive system. Having a gluten-free diet can eliminate a bloated belly and can distress your digestive system.

• Reduces the frequency of the migraines

As we have already discussed the link between migraine and gluten. Therefore, switching to a gluten free lifestyle can reduce the frequency of your migraines and the recurrence of the throbbing pain attacks.

Takeaway

If you are a celiac or experience severe migraines you must switch to a gluten free diet to reduce the severity of painful attacks and lead a healthier lifestyle.

Stay Healthy & Enjoy a Gluten-Free Lifestyle!

In case you have any queries related to gluten-free tips, gluten-free foods, celiac disease, etc., reach out to us at info@glutenfreejio.com and we would be happy to help you!