Hormones and Migraines

One common symptom associated with hormonal changes in the body is headaches or migraines. In women, these migraines are often associated with fluctuations in estrogen – especially before a menstrual period. Other common triggers which may disrupt hormones include: stress, birth control pills, lack of sleep, dehydration, too much caffeine, alcohol, a high-sugar diet, not enough high quality food, and too much sun exposure. All of these triggers are said to influence hormone production and levels in the body which can ultimately lead to painful and debilitating headaches to those who are most sensitive.

Recent scientific evidence has also linked certain chemicals in foods to migraines. Nitrates in processed meats, food additives, soy, artificial sweeteners, food preservatives, MSG, and yeast extract are all considered potential triggers for migraine headaches. Check your food labels on the food products you consume to help you identify which ingredients may have contributed to your headache. Tune in to how your body responds to these chemicals. By doing this, you might start to recognize a pattern when you eat certain ingredients – whether it be migraines, bloating, or digestive discomfort.

If you suffer from frequent migraines, take a look at your diet, lifestyle and sleep habits for common triggers. Eliminating processed foods, eating hormone-free meat, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. You also might want to consider trying out a 7 to 10 day juice or smoothie cleanse to rid your body of migraine-inducing toxins. If after you’ve implemented these strategies and still find yourself victim of migraines, consider getting your hormone levels checked by a professional.

Keep a journal to track of how often you get migraines and what triggers them and bring this information to your doctor. This information will be helpful for identifying triggers and stabilizing hormonal fluctuations.

Paste your AdWords Remarketing code here