Top 6 facts migraineurs should know about sugar, it causes: Blood sugar fluctuations, inflammation, magnesium depletion, triggers food cravings, increases oxidative stress and disrupts gut health
Let’s review each one in detail:
Blood sugar fluctuations
Consuming foods high in sugar can lead to rapid spikes and subsequent drops in blood sugar levels. The fluctuations can trigger migraines in some individuals. Fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause changes in brain chemistry, including the release of certain neurotransmitters that may trigger migraine attacks.
Inflammation
Sugar causes inflammation in the body, which can be a contributing factor in migraine development. Inflammation can activate pain pathways and increase sensitivity to pain, potentially exacerbating migraine symptoms.
Magnesium depletion
Sugar can deplete magnesium levels in the body. Magnesium is an essential mineral for various neurological functions and it plays a role in migraine prevention. Low magnesium levels have been associated with an increased risk of migraines and may contribute to their severity.
Triggering food cravings
Sugar can create a cycle of cravings and dependency, leading to the consumption of other potential migraine triggers. Foods high in sugar, such as processed snacks and desserts, often contain other migraine triggers like artificial additives, preservatives, or high levels of caffeine, which can further worsen migraine symptoms.
Increased oxidative stress
High sugar intake can increase oxidative stress in the body, which refers to an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Oxidative stress can contribute to neuroinflammation and damage cells in the brain, potentially increasing the risk and severity of migraines.
Disrupting gut health
Excessive sugar consumption can negatively affect the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to gut dysbiosis. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including immune function and inflammation regulation. Imbalances in the gut microbiota have been associated with migraines, and sugar can contribute to this imbalance.
I would recommend to eliminate as much sugar as you can from your diet. Try to supplement with fruits so you can enjoy the sweetness in a different way.