Is hunger pangs, headache bangs your everyday struggle that just never seems to get any better no matter what you do? Do you know why some people get headaches when they're hungry while others don't seem to have this problem at all?
Believe it or not, the answer is pretty simple - it all has to do with the way our bodies are wired. In this article, we'll explore why getting a headache when you're hungry may be more common than you think.
What causes hunger headaches?
Hunger headaches can be caused by several factors such as low blood sugar levels, dehydration, and even caffeine withdrawal. In many cases, these headaches occur due to a lack of glucose in the bloodstream.
Low blood sugar levels
Your brain needs energy in order to function properly - and for most of us, that energy comes from glucose. Glucose is produced whenever we eat carbohydrates (which are broken down into their simplest form during digestion). However, if there isn't enough glucose present in the bloodstream (also known as hypoglycemia), this can cause a cascade of symptoms including shakiness, irritability and yes...even headaches!
Dehydration
When your body doesn't get enough water through drinking fluids or consuming moist foods like fruits and vegetables, dehydration occurs which can lead to significant health risks that includes migraine-likeheadaches being one amongst many other signs.
Caffeine Withdrawal
Caffeine is found naturally in coffee but also added artificially into beverages and snacks; however over-consumption would result into numerous side effects including high heart rate,lacking sleep quality / becoming insomniac upon long term usage- And especially so if suddenly abstained from altogether.Central nervous system adapts after frequent use leading up too much higher dependency levels towards caffeine for that concentration / energy fix, users going through withdrawal suggestedly experience symptoms including a throbbing head.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Some of the common symptoms associated with hunger headaches include:
- Stabbing pain above/behind one or both eyes
- Feeling faint due to low blood sugar levels
- Impaired focus
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbance and fatigue
How is it diagnosed?
To help diagnose whether your headache could be related to hunger, you should look out for possible triggers such as increased frequency when skipping meals, prolonged timing & duration ,
Be aware that self-diagnosis can cause various issues on its own. If these headaches continue or increase in severity after changes in eating habits have been instated; A proper medical consultation will greatly benefit diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Hunger Headaches
If self-made changes are not sufficient enough seek professional guidance from a dietician/nutritionist. Negative impacts causing discomfort long-lasting effects having potential for longer term chronic implications may lead towards specialized treatment options suchas medication.
Self-Made Changes That Can Help Alleviate Hunger Headaches
In order to prevent themselves from experiencing hunger headaches, there are several things that individuals can try:
1) Follow-up by moderate lifestyle change adaptation available via nutrition stations found at larger city areas which include food planning charting based upon calorie deficits / allocation forms and recently graduated dieticians assistance is also provided along with follow up check-ups. 2) Maintaining an appropriate fluid intake based off daily recommended amounts (usually 6–8 glasses per day). 3) Make sure they're getting the right amount of caffeine (without overdoing it). Gradual decreasing assists with preventing caffeine withdrawal side effects whilst helping kick unhealthy prior-added sugars present during coffee beverages/snacks continuos consumption. 4) Lastly important aspect would reasonably getting adequate sleep according to your routine schedules.
Overall,hunger induced headaches are usually related to low levels of glucose, dehydration or caffeine withdrawal. If you're experiencing this condition on a frequent basis,therefore lifestyle changes including fluid intake and moderated consumption should be instated , as it’s important to address the root cause – whether that means changing your overall diet habits/proper sleeping patterns or even seeking medicinal aid if required.
Is drinking water helpful for preventing hunger headaches?
Yes! Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day can help keep you hydrated - which in turn may reduce the likelihood of getting a headache when you’re hungry later on.
Should I see my GP/Doctor if I’m concerned about my hunger headaches?
If despite making self-charted adjustments/suggestions provided via nutritional dietician assistance / adapting natural remedies symptoms persist obtaining professional medical consultation would definitely be advisable.