A neurologist has suggested that chocolate could potentially serve as a “cure” for headaches as it contains a “number of pleasure substances”.
Dr Dougall McCorry, a consultant neurologist at The Priory Hospital in Birmingham, shared with Woman’s Weekly that the “pleasure” derived from chocolate might help to alleviate headache pain.
He explained that if a headache is triggered by exhaustion or low blood sugar, the caffeine and sugar found in chocolate could target the discomfort.
Dr McCorry stated: “While many people blame their headache on chocolate, some choose it as a cure. Chocolate also contains muscle-relaxing magnesium and a number of pleasure substances, such as phenylethylamine.”
Headache specialist Professor Anne MacGregor pointed out that headaches can be caused by various factors, including stress, eye strain, dehydration, or hormonal changes, reports Gloucestershire Live.
Headaches are one of the most common ailments in the UK, and chocolate is among 14 natural remedies that could potentially replace painkillers.
Here are some additional methods for quick pain relief:
1. Dim the lights
Bright light can trigger headaches and exacerbate existing ones. This is especially true for those suffering from migraines, says Dr Steven Allder, a consultant neurologist at recognitionhealth.com.
Considering this, it may be beneficial to switch to softer, yellow-toned light bulbs.
2. Control your breath.
When that dreaded headache hits, remember to take a moment and breathe deeply – inhale through your nose for a count of four and exhale slowly to a count of six or eight, suggests Dr Allder.
This technique “activates” the parasympathetic nervous system, which can be a real game-changer in alleviating headache pain.
3. Walking
A brisk walk could be just what you need to kick headaches to the curb. Not only does it get those endorphins flowing as your body’s own natural painkillers, but it also encourages better sleep patterns, keeping those pesky headaches at bay.
4. Essential oils
Inhaling the scent of essential oils such as peppermint might offer some relief from headaches. To harness this remedy, mix a few drops with a carrier oil and gently apply it to your neck or temples.
5. Don’t forget to wear your glasses if you need them!
Eye strain is a notorious culprit for triggering headaches, so make sure your specs are on or your contact lenses are in. And remember to give your eyes regular breaks from screens.
6. Reach for a glass of water first
Dehydration is a common cause of headaches, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated.
7. Check your posture
Your posture could be contributing to your headaches. Slouching forward can lead to nerve pinching and neck stretching.
Keep your gaze forward, feet flat on the ground, and maintain straight hips and knees.
8. Try a shower
Sometimes, a shower can work wonders for a headache. The warm water can soothe your scalp and ease tension in your head and neck.
9. Stretch
Don’t underestimate the power of a good stretch to relieve tension and fend off headaches.
Stretching can also help to alleviate tension headaches. Try lying on the floor with your calves resting against a sofa or wall.
10. Making love
According to neurologists at the University of Munster, arousal and orgasms can serve as natural painkillers.
11. Self-massage
Consider giving yourself a mini massage; applying firm pressure to certain areas can provide quick relief.
12. Apply a cold compress
Applying a cold, damp flannel to your forehead or the back of your neck could be beneficial.
13. Loosen your hair
If you have long hair and typically wear it in a ponytail, let it down as this can reduce strain on your scalp.