Doctor reveals why McDonald's coke and fries could 'fix' a migraine better than medication
Ever had a searing migraine and felt like nothing could even touch the sides?
Well then, it might be worth heading to your nearest McDonald's to pick up some fries and a large fizzy drink.
No, I'm actually not joking here.
Anyone whose suffered from chronic migraines will have likely scoured the internet for DIY remedies during those times when your standard paracetamol or ibuprofen isn't helping. Well, if you're even able to look at a screen in the first place.
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Of course, the first point of call would be to chug some water and swallow the recommended amount of painkillers, but if that doesn't work, then why not try a remedy long touted by people with crushing hangovers, and head to the Golden Arches next time you feel an attack coming on?
Could having fries and a Coca-Cola actually 'fix' a migraine?
Although it's very unlikely to end up in medical journals anytime soon, enjoying some fries and your fizzy drink of choice may, at the very least, help you to feel better, according to medical educator Doctor Myro, who recently responded to a video from another creator asking why she feels better after having a McDonald's Coca-Cola and fries.
"Can someone please tell me the science of why a McDonald's Coke and large fries cures my migraines in a way no medication ever will?" read the question from the original creator, to which Myro replied, saying there were three reasons.
They are as follows:
Dopamine hit
The first reason is that enjoying your favourite fast food will give you a dopamine hit, which triggers the brain's reward system.
"That's going to make anyone feel better after anything," he added.
Caffeine amount
Myro then explained that the large Coke being drunk in the video would contain 85mg of caffeine, which is higher than the amount included in certain painkiller brands.
Now, this may sound too good to be true, but information shared by The Migraine Trust explains that caffeine's effect on the brain's adenosine receptors can relieve migraine symptoms.
However, it's also important to note that caffeine can trigger migraines in some people, so it's worth knowing whether or not you're one of those people.
Salt content
Last of all is the amount of salt which comes on McDonald's famous fries. "Those French fries are going to have a ton of salt on them, which is going to hydrate you just like an electrolyte tablet would," he explained.
Again, salt can also trigger migraine attacks in some people, so this isn't a free pass to chuck loads of the stuff on your dinner.
What does the NHS say about migraines?
Migraines, of course, differ from headaches as they are accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, throbbing pain in one side of the head, dizziness, auras and fatigue. These symptoms can also last for several days.
If you believe that you're suffering from recurrent migraine attacks, the NHS has more advice on symptoms, treatment and when to see a GP here.
Brenna Cooper