Can Eating a Lemon Actually Help with Migraines? Experts Weigh In
A recent TikTok video has sparked a debate about whether eating a lemon can actually help with migraines. Cass Cavanaugh, the TikTok user behind the video, claimed that eating a whole raw lemon helped alleviate her migraine pain. However, experts have weighed in on the matter, suggesting that lemons may actually trigger head pain.
Dr. Mahyar Maddahali, a vascular medicine expert, responded to Cavanaugh’s video with his own TikTok video. He explained that there is not enough evidence to confirm that lemons help with migraines. He pointed out that lemons contain tyramine, which has been linked to migraine onset. Tyramine can cause nerve cells to release norepinephrine, a hormone that plays a role in the fight-or-flight response. This can lead to increased blood pressure and intensified headaches.
According to the National Headache Foundation, people who suffer from migraines and follow a low-tyramine diet should consume lemons with caution, limiting their intake to half a cup per day. This cautionary advice reflects the potential trigger effect of lemons on migraines.
Migraines are a common condition that affects a significant portion of the population. Research shows that 17.1 percent of women and 5.6 percent of men in the US experience migraines. These debilitating headaches can cause severe pain, often described as a pulsing or throbbing sensation in the head. Other symptoms can include nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, vomiting, and even temporary confusion or drained energy.
While certain warning signs indicate a need for immediate medical attention, such as a severe, sudden headache or a headache following a head injury, there are also various triggers that can contribute to migraines. These can include alcoholic or highly caffeinated drinks, stress, hormonal changes (particularly in women), sleep disturbances, bright lights, physical strain, certain foods, and even changes in weather conditions. Individuals with a family history of migraines may also have an increased risk of experiencing migraines.
It is essential to seek medical advice from a neurologist if migraines significantly impact day-to-day functioning or lead to self-medication. Neurologists are trained to treat headaches and can conduct thorough examinations, ask relevant questions about symptoms and medical history, and may even recommend imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans to investigate the source of head pain. There are medications available to relieve migraine pain and prevent future episodes, and a specialist can help determine the most suitable treatment plan for each individual.
In conclusion, while some individuals may claim that eating a raw lemon helps with migraines, the scientific evidence is limited. Experts advise caution when consuming lemons as they may trigger or exacerbate migraines due to their tyramine content. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of migraines.
