Migraine and exercise
Exercise and Migraine
Are you hesitant to exercise because you're worried it might trigger a migraine? You're not alone. For many people, physical activity is a common trigger for migraines, and the last thing you want to do is trigger another migraine. However, while it's true that exercise can be a trigger for migraines, it's also true that exercise can be a powerful preventative tool for managing your migraines. The key is finding ways to exercise that don't trigger a migraine, and incorporating physical activity into your migraine prevention plan.
Exercise reduces stress
One of the primary triggers for migraines is stress. When we experience stress, our bodies release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can cause our muscles to tense up, which can trigger migraines.
Exercise can help to reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. Endorphins can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, both of which can contribute to stress levels. Additionally, exercise provides an outlet for stress and tension, which can help to prevent migraines from occurring in the first place.
Exercise improves sleep quality
Another common trigger for migraines is poor sleep quality. Many migraine sufferers report that their migraines are more likely to occur when they haven't slept well. Exercise can help to improve sleep quality by increasing the amount of deep sleep that we get each night. Deep sleep is the stage of sleep that is most restorative, and it's essential for maintaining good physical and mental health.
Exercise improves cardiovascular health
Research has shown that people who experience migraines are more likely to have cardiovascular disease. By exercising regularly, you can improve your cardiovascular health and reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Additionally, exercise can help to lower blood pressure, which is another risk factor for migraines.
Exercise can help to reduce inflammation
Inflammation is another trigger for migraines. When our bodies are inflamed, it can lead to a host of health problems, including migraines. Exercise has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to prevent migraines from occurring.
Exercise can help to regulate hormones
Hormonal imbalances are another common trigger for migraines. Women are more likely to experience migraines than men, and hormonal changes associated with menstruation can trigger migraines in some women. Regular exercise can help to regulate hormones and reduce the likelihood of hormonal imbalances.
Exercising when you have migraine
If you're prone to migraines, the idea of exercising can be daunting. However, with a few precautions and tips, you can safely exercise without triggering a migraine. Here are a few things to keep in mind to prevent migraines while exercising. First, stay hydrated and use electrolytes during your workout to help prevent dehydration, which can trigger migraines. Additionally, try to keep your heart rate between 120-130 bpm when doing cardio, as a sudden spike in heart rate can also trigger migraines. It's important to amp up gradually, especially if you haven't been working out regularly. Even if you feel strong, you'll want to work up to harder workouts gradually to avoid triggering a migraine. Don't forget to include a proper warm-up to get your body ready for exercise. Lastly, make sure you eat well a couple of hours before you workout so that you have enough energy for your workout. Be sure to include protein in your pre-workout meal, as it will help to keep your blood sugar stable during your workout. Incorporating these tips into your exercise routine can help to prevent migraines and make your workout more enjoyable.
