Only one thing for migraine prevention? Is that all you have to do to prevent migraines? Of course, that’s not what I mean, but in this post, I am talking about one specific thing that can have a big impact on triggering migraines……..WATER!
Hydration is very important if you are a migraine sufferer. The plain fact is, if you are not getting enough water, you will get migraines. I learned this the hard way and I suffered with migraines for years and years before anyone every pointed this out to me.
I grew up in a family and in a culture where we didn’t drink much water. We might drink a lot of hot tea, but unfortunately, tea, like coffee, has a more diuretic effect on the body, so that makes you even more dehydrated! Something I learned the hard way.
There are varying theories on how much water you should consume daily. New research shows that you should be drinking half your body weight in water per day. If you are not a “water drinker” this can be hard to accomplish to begin with. At the very least, your goal should be 8-8oz. glasses as you begin.
I realize that when you are in the throes of a migraine, it is an awful thought to have to drink water – yet it is essential that you keep yourself hydrated. It is better to prevent dehydration than to have to treat it.
Steps to Take to Prevent Dehydration
Obviously, drink plenty of fluids. Limit the intake of alcohol and caffeine as they dehydrate.
Eat foods high in water content. Fruits and vegetables are great.
Drink fruit and vegetable juices in moderation. Drinking too much of them can cause diarrhea which can be dehydrating.
If you’re planning a day which involves lot of physical activity and exposure to the sun, begin hydrating the day before.
Plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day if possible.
When organizing outdoor activities, choose places with shaded areas.
Be sure to pack bottles of water with you when you go out.
WATER IS KEY! Dehydration leads to migraines. It is important to keep your water intake as high as possible. I know from experience that when I do not drink enough water, I get a headache which often leads to a migraine.
But I don’t like water…..
This is an argument I hear often. When I first began drinking water, I have to say, I didn’t much like it either. Now it is part of my daily lifestyle, I feel thirsty when I don’t drink enough.
If you don’t like plain water, then make some infused water.
Take a gallon jug or pitcher and fill it with water (preferably purified).
Get some fresh fruit in season, or cucumber, lemon, mint – whatever it is that you like that will help you to enjoy the taste more. For example, you can combine things like blueberries and strawberries, cucumber and lemon, etc. You can use herbs such as mint on its own for fresh minted water. There are so many great options out there, and it’s simple to do….Put the fruits, herbs, etc. into the water and cover. Keep in the refrigerator and pour as needed. You will have some great tasting water.
For those of you who like carbonated beverages, then purchase some carbonated water and add the fruit and/or herbs in the same way. It will give you a tasty and healthier alternative.
With so many options out there, we have no excuse for being dehydrated. If you are not in the habit of drinking water, then set a reminder on your phone to get up and get some water to drink. Simple, right?
However, you choose to incorporate water, just make sure you have some with you at all times – even if you are out and about running errands – so that you don’t become dehydrated and end up with a migraine.
My challenge to you this week is to drink eight 8 oz. bottles or glasses of water every day for a week and see how you feel. Let me know if you are up for the challenge!
P.S. Join the private Facebook Migraine Support Group >>HERE<< so that you can be in a like-minded community and support one another as well as getting daily tips.