Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 17: Whether it’s a steaming cup of coffee or a bar of chocolate after a long day, many of us instinctively reach for comfort food when stressed. But a recent viral hack has surprised many – the idea that a large Coca-Cola and fries might stop a migraine in its tracks. Surprisingly, there’s some science behind it.
Coca-Cola contains caffeine, which acts as a vasoconstrictor, helping narrow blood vessels that widen during a migraine – a major cause of the throbbing headache. Over-the-counter medications often include caffeine for this very reason.
The sugar and salt in Coke and fries may also help rebalance blood sugar and electrolyte levels, which tend to go off balance during a migraine attack.
The four phases of a migraine
Migraines aren’t just headaches – they’re full-body experiences with four stages: prodrome, aura, pain, and postdrome.
Prodrome begins hours or even days before pain hits. People may feel unusually tired, irritable, or low. Many report odd cravings – chocolate, hugs, or even ice water – all of which can influence serotonin, dopamine, or calm the nervous system. This early phase offers the best chance to intervene and possibly stop the migraine.
Oddly enough, cravings for chocolate might not be a trigger but rather a response. Chocolate is rich in serotonin-boosting compounds, and low serotonin is a known migraine trigger.
Aura, experienced by about 20% of migraine sufferers, brings visual flashes or tingling sensations. It’s caused by a burst and then a dip in brain activity that affects blood flow.
Pain follows when blood vessels dilate, activating pain receptors and triggering the classic migraine throb. At this stage, food is often not an option, and many turn to triptan medications, which adjust serotonin and histamine levels.
Postdrome, the “migraine hangover,” can linger for days, leaving sufferers with fatigue, body aches, nausea, and mental fog.
Prevention is key
Experts suggest recognising early signs — like cravings or mood changes — is vital. “These cravings aren’t random,” researchers say. “They reflect the body’s effort to restore neurological balance.”
While a Coke and fries may not be a universal cure, small steps like staying hydrated, resting, or eating a bit of chocolate could genuinely help in the early stages.
Ultimately, knowledge is prevention. Understanding your migraine pattern and acting early can make all the difference — and yes, sometimes even fast food might just help you stay ahead of the pain.