Coffee contains caffeine, which helps many people stay alert, and many people even believe that coffee is effective in relieving headaches. In fact, coffee and headaches are linked in both good and bad ways.
Does coffee really help relieve headaches?
“According to research published in the journal Nutrients in 2023, caffeine can act as a therapeutic agent in cases of headaches such as hypnic headaches, which only develop when a person is sleeping,” says nutritionist Haripriya (India).
Caffeine as a pain reliever
The caffeine in coffee stimulates the brain and nervous system, helping to improve concentration and alertness. “This effect is why many people find coffee helpful in reducing fatigue and improving productivity,” says Haripriya.
The caffeine in coffee also acts as a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels, which helps relieve pain.
“Many headaches are related to the dilation of blood vessels. By constricting them, caffeine helps relieve pain,” says Haripriya.
Reduce fatigue
Caffeine can help combat the fatigue and drowsiness that often accompany headaches. By stimulating the central nervous system, coffee makes you feel more alert and improves your ability to concentrate, which can reduce the discomfort of mild headaches.
For those who consume coffee daily, skipping their usual amount of coffee can lead to caffeine withdrawal headaches.
According to a 2023 study published in StatPearls, about half of people who drink more than 200 mg of caffeine per day will experience headaches if they suddenly stop consuming it.
In such cases, drinking a small amount of coffee can relieve headaches by restoring caffeine levels.
“Coffee helps relieve certain headaches, but should be used sparingly and is not a primary solution for chronic headaches,” says Haripriya.
Why does drinking coffee cause headaches?
While some people believe that caffeine relieves headaches, others say it makes them worse.
Caffeine withdrawal headaches
It’s a common symptom that occurs when someone who regularly consumes caffeine reduces their intake or stops it altogether. “Caffeine withdrawal headaches occur because the stimulating effects of caffeine on the central nervous system suddenly disappear,” says Haripriya.
Overconsumption
Drinking too much coffee can cause headaches. In a 2023 study published in Scientific Reports, the rate of severe headaches was 42% higher in participants who consumed more than 400 milligrams (m) of caffeine per day than in those who did not.
Dehydration
According to experts, caffeine is a diuretic, which can increase urine output. Drinkers should not experience this problem if they are mindful of the number of cups of caffeinated beverages they consume. However, drinking too much coffee can lead to dehydration, which is a common cause of headaches.
Inconsistent food intake
Coffee and headaches may also be related to how much and how often you drink it. Sometimes you drink a lot of coffee one day and less the next.
“Occasional caffeine consumption may seem harmless, but it can cause fluctuations in blood flow to the brain, leading to headaches,” says Haripriya.
Sleep disruption
Drinking coffee late in the day or close to bedtime can interfere with sleep. If you are not well rested and have a poor sleep schedule, you may experience headaches.
In a 2017 review published in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders, a strong link was found between sleep deprivation and tension headaches.
What to do to reduce headaches when drinking coffee?
Moderation is key when it comes to caffeine consumption. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, most adults can safely consume 400 mg of caffeine per day (about 1.5 cups of coffee). However, individual tolerance varies, as some people may feel jittery with just a small amount of coffee.
Also, try to consume your coffee at the same time each day to avoid fluctuations. Get enough sleep, as good quality sleep helps reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
If caffeine is a frequent headache trigger, consider drinking herbal teas like chamomile, which can reduce your dependence on coffee over time.
Source: https://giadinhonline.vn/vi-sao-uong-ca-phe-de-tinh-tao-nhung-nhieu-nguoi-lai-dau-dau-d203353.html
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