How to Deal With Headaches during Intermittent Fasting

Fasting is a potent stressor but there’s always a fine line between pushing through and giving up. Fasting can be a powerful tool, and if done correctly, it can increase energy levels and boost mood.

However, some of us may experience a throbbing headache that accompanies a couple of hours of fasting. Perhaps you could ease back a bit and follow these simple tips to deal with the annoying headaches.

 

1. Get enough sleep

Your body is designed to function best when you get at least seven hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. If you don’t have enough sleep, cortisol levels rise, causing blood sugar levels to drop and triggering headaches. Getting adequate rest helps keep your brain functioning properly, so if you haven’t been getting enough shut-eye lately, it might be time to make some adjustments.

 

1. Drink water

Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day keep you feeling energized and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Staying hydrated also ensures that you won’t experience any dehydration-related headaches. Keep yourself well-hydrated by drinking lots of water, herbal tea, and coffee.

 

1. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol causes dehydration and can lead to headaches, so try to avoid it altogether if possible. You may want to save it for special occasions only.

 

1. Take vitamin B complex supplements

Vitamin B complex (B vitamins) help your body metabolize fats and carbs, two things that contribute to headaches. Taking them regularly can prevent migraines from happening.

 

1. Exercise

Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals that improve mood and reduce pain. When you exercise, your body produces serotonin, which makes you feel happy and relaxed. So even though you might not feel like exercising right now, take a walk around the block or go for a run instead.

 

1. Don’t overdo it

Too much caffeine can cause headaches, so limit your intake to no more than three cups of caffeinated drinks per day. Coffee, soda, and chocolate are all high in caffeine, so cut back on these beverages if you’re experiencing headaches. Instead, switch to decaf versions of these drinks.

Headaches are annoying at times sometimes detrimental. Other than the mentioned above reasons and solutions for headaches, sometimes mental problems such as dispersion are the core reason for throbbing headaches. Either way, personal care is essential, try out these mentioned tips and enjoy all the benefits that come along with fasting.

 

Sources:

1. https://drinklmnt.com/blogs/health/fasting-headaches

2. https://dofasting.com/blog/intermittent-fasting-headache/

3. https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-fasting-can-cause-a-headache-1719448

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