Latest news with #JessicaLowe
Fast Company
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Fast Company
Does the ‘McMigraine meal' really help with headaches? TikTok thinks so
Migraine sufferers have heard it all: ice hats, essential oils, ginger tea. The latest advice? Head to McDonald's and order a large Coca-Cola and fries, dubbed the 'McMigraine meal.' One viral video with 5.7 million views reads: 'Trying McDonald's chips and a Diet Coke because I've had a headache for 48 hours and TikTok said it would help.' In the caption, the TikTok creator confirmed the hack worked. Another posted, 'the migraine girls get it' while pulling up to a McDonald's drive-through. A third asked, 'can someone please explain why the McMigraine always works?' While TikTok health hacks should be taken with a generous pinch of salt, this one may have some basis in science. 'This is a hack that's relatively well known in the migraine community,' neurologist and fellow migraine sufferer Jessica Lowe (@doctorbrainbarbie), explained in a TikTok video with 9.3 million views. 'A large coke from Mcdonalds has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it. That right there is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks.' Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor —meaning it narrows blood vessels, which helps counter the dilation that occurs during a migraine. The fries offer both electrolytes and carbohydrates. 'Mcdonalds is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around,' Lowe added. Electrolytes can ease migraine symptoms tied to dehydration or low sodium, while carbs may help if the trigger is hunger or a drop in blood sugar. Still, proceed with caution. For some people, caffeine and fast food can trigger migraines rather than relieve them. Dr. Kay Kennis, a trustee for the Migraine Trust and a GP who specializes in migraines, told the BBC that McDonald's food may also contain high levels of tyramine—a known potential trigger. If you're struggling with migraines, consult your healthcare provider to explore treatment options. But if you're craving McDonald's in the meantime, go for it—you just might get some relief.
Daily Mirror
06-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Neurologist reveals 'miraculous' McDonalds menu item that can cure migraines
A leading health expert has shared the perfect McDonald's order for those who suffer with migraines, revealing the two menu items that can help stop intense headaches It's good news for McDonald's fans with scientists now claiming certain foods can help combat migraines and stop them in their tracks. According to Dr Jessica Lowe, there are two tasty items from the fast food chain that can help cure the dreaded headaches. While most people turn to medication to relieve the pain, the US-based specialist took to TikTok and said all you need is a McDonald's large coke and fries. Dr Lowe said she suffers with chronic migraines herself, and said this 'McDonald's migrane hack' is "well-known" to those who suffer as well. She declared: "The order is a large Coke and a large fries. And this somehow miraculously makes your migraine go away." The expert further detailed, "So first of all, a large Coke [roughly 950ml] from McDonald's has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it. Right there is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks." Caffeine can help relieve severe headaches by constricting blood vessels in the brain, reducing inflammation and pressure. Caffeine can also block the action of the neurotransmitter adenosine, which increases during migraine attacks and causes pain, and Dr Lowe added: "Also, McDonald's is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around. Salts, electrolytes. Easy." It's believed that imbalances in electrolytes - which are essential minerals like sodium - can also trigger migraines, so eating more salty foods will increase your sodium intake, help alleviate migraine pain, and reduce the frequency of attacks for those who suffer badly. "And then of course, fries or carbs. A lot of people have migraines that are provoked by hunger or just their glucose starting to drop, so those carbs are certainly gonna help out in that department," she said. Of course, there is a downside - it's not a healthy remedy to cure a migraine, but there are other alternative ways. Dr Lowe stated that you can find between 60 to 65 mg of caffeine in over the counter migraine relief like Panmigrol. "The dose is typically two. So that'll put you between 120 and 130 milligrams of caffeine. That's an easy way to get the caffeine components of this cocktail," she assured. The doctor also said having a sports drink such as a Powerade is another way to increase your electrolytes and will also reduce dehydration. "But with that being said, you know, we are all human, and when you are feeling unwell, sometimes you just want some comfort food. I get it. Not knocking the hack, just don't make a habit of it," she concluded.
Scottish Sun
05-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
I'm a neurologist and this is why the McDonald's hack for a migraine works a trick
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WHEN a migraine hits, most of us make a beeline for a dark room and hope the painkillers kick in fast. But what if popping into a Maccies could help stave off your throbbing headache? 2 Dr Jessica Lowe explained that an order from Maccies may help some people stop their migraines Credit: Instagram 2 A Coke and fries contain a key blend of caffeine, salt and carbs Credit: Getty According to neurologist Dr Jessica Lowe, a large Coke and chips could "miraculously make your migraine go away" due to a few key ingredients. Know as the "McDonald's migraine hack", the US-based specialist said the trick "is relatively well known" to people who frequently suffer from migraines. In a now viral video posted to TikTok and Instagram, Dr Lowe - who suffers from migraine attacks herself - broke down just why the hack might work for some people. "I'm a neurologist with migraines. Ain't that ironic?" she said in the clip. "The order is a large Coke and a large order of fries. And this somehow miraculously makes your migraine go away. "This can be easily explained." The hack's efficacy comes down to caffeine, salt and carbs, the neurologist said. "So, first of all, a large Coke from McDonald's has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it." That amount of caffeine alone "is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks", Dr Lowe claimed. According to The Migraine Trust, caffeine may help stop a migraine attack for some people, while for others it may trigger it - so whether or not a large Cola eases your headache will very much depend on the person. I battled mystery headaches for ten years - doctors thought I'd had a stroke but it was something much rarer "Also, McDonald's is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around," Dr Lowe went on. "Salts, electrolytes. Easy." Some people may find that electrolytes - such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium - can help ease migraines, as dehydration can trigger the headache. "And then of course, fries or carbs," Dr Low said. Signs of a migraine A migraine usually feels like a very bad headache with a throbbing pain on one side. You may get other symptoms just before a migraine, such as: Feeling very tired and yawning a lot Craving certain foods or feeling thirsty Changes in your mood A stiff neck Peeing more You may also get warning signs you're about to have a migraine - called an aura - such as: Problems with your sight, such as seeing zigzag lines or flashing lights Numbness or a tingling that feels like pins and needles Feeling dizzy Difficulty speaking Source: NHS "A lot of people have migraines that are provoked by hunger or just their glucose starting to drop, so those carbs are certainly gonna help out in that department." However, the doctor did point out that the McDonald's migraine hack may not be the healthiest road to go down - it is fast food after all and you'd do well not to resort to it too often. She said "Are there healthier ways to accomplish this? Yes. "Fun fact one tablet of Excedrin has I think 60 to 65 milligrams of caffeine in it. "The dose is typically two, so that'll put you between 120 and 130 milligrams of caffeine. "That's an easy way to get the caffeine components of this cocktail." Excedrin is an over-the-counter headache pain reliever. Anadin or Soldadeine are UK equivalents that contain caffeine. If you're after a dose of electrolytes, Dr Lowe advised you "chug a Gatorade" instead of a fizzy drink. "This will likely also help with hydration in addition to the electrolytes," she added. "So two birds, one stone. As for a dose of carbs, the neurologist said: "It's probably not difficult to find a carbohydrate that is healthier than deep fried potatoes, so go for gold. "But with that being said, you know, we are all human, and when you are feeling unwell, sometimes you just want some comfort food. "I get it. Not knocking the hack, just don't make a habit of it," Dr Lowe advised.
The Sun
05-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
I'm a neurologist and this is why the McDonald's hack for a migraine works a trick
WHEN a migraine hits, most of us make a beeline for a dark room and hope the painkillers kick in fast. But what if popping into a Maccies could help stave off your throbbing headache? 2 2 According to neurologist Dr Jessica Lowe, a large Coke and chips could "miraculously make your migraine go away" due to a few key ingredients. Know as the " McDonald's migraine hack", the US-based specialist said the trick "is relatively well known" to people who frequently suffer from migraines. In a now viral video posted to TikTok and Instagram, Dr Lowe - who suffers from migraine attacks herself - broke down just why the hack might work for some people. "I'm a neurologist with migraines. Ain't that ironic?" she said in the clip. "The order is a large Coke and a large order of fries. And this somehow miraculously makes your migraine go away. "This can be easily explained." The hack's efficacy comes down to caffeine, salt and carbs, the neurologist said. "So, first of all, a large Coke from McDonald's has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it." That amount of caffeine alone "is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks", Dr Lowe claimed. According to The Migraine Trust, caffeine may help stop a migraine attack for some people, while for others it may trigger it - so whether or not a large Cola eases your headache will very much depend on the person. I battled mystery headaches for ten years - doctors thought I'd had a stroke but it was something much rarer "Also, McDonald's is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around," Dr Lowe went on. "Salts, electrolytes. Easy." Some people may find that electrolytes - such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium - can help ease migraines, as dehydration can trigger the headache. "And then of course, fries or carbs," Dr Low said. "A lot of people have migraines that are provoked by hunger or just their glucose starting to drop, so those carbs are certainly gonna help out in that department." However, the doctor did point out that the McDonald's migraine hack may not be the healthiest road to go down - it is fast food after all and you'd do well not to resort to it too often. She said "Are there healthier ways to accomplish this? Yes. "Fun fact one tablet of Excedrin has I think 60 to 65 milligrams of caffeine in it. "The dose is typically two, so that'll put you between 120 and 130 milligrams of caffeine. "That's an easy way to get the caffeine components of this cocktail." Excedrin is an over-the-counter headache pain reliever. Anadin or Soldadeine are UK equivalents that contain caffeine. If you're after a dose of electrolytes, Dr Lowe advised you "chug a Gatorade" instead of a fizzy drink. "This will likely also help with hydration in addition to the electrolytes," she added. "So two birds, one stone. As for a dose of carbs, the neurologist said: "It's probably not difficult to find a carbohydrate that is healthier than deep fried potatoes, so go for gold. "But with that being said, you know, we are all human, and when you are feeling unwell, sometimes you just want some comfort food. "I get it. Not knocking the hack, just don't make a habit of it," Dr Lowe advised. How is migraine treated? Often the only way to get rid of a migraine is to take painkillers and sleep it off. Sufferers normally rest up in a dark room until it has passed - which can be up to 72 hours. There are many options for migraine that can be tried - some help at the point of migraine and others are preventative. And there are new treatments coming onto the market that are not just repurposed drugs for other conditions. Triptans Triptans reduce the pain and sickness of a migraine attack at the time they are taken. Naratriptan and frovatriptan usually take longer to reach their maximum effect but their effect lasts longer. But if a patient's attacks peak quite quickly, a triptan such as sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, eletriptan or rizatriptan may be more appropriate. Two doses of any triptan are allowed in 24 hours and they should not be used more than 10 days in a month. Analgesics This is medication that treats the pain of a migraine attack at the time they are taken and includes paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Prophylactics Prophylactics are preventative medicines for migraines taken every day. Most preventive medications currently available are repurposed from other conditions. They include: Angiotensin II blockers (for hypertension) Anti-convulsants (for epilepsy) Anti-serotonergic drugs (for depression) Beta-blockers (for hypertension) Calcium channel blockers Tricyclic antidepressants CGRP monoclonal antibodies (described below) Botox injections Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is a type of nerve toxin that paralyses muscles. It was discovered that those who had the cosmetic injections had fewer headaches. Botox is approved for use on the NHS for the treatment of chronic migraine - at least 15 headache days a month - in adults who have tried other treatments. Doctors think it works by blocking chemicals called neurotransmitters that carry pain signals from within your brain. CGRP monoclonal antibodies Calcitonin gene-related peptide antibodies (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are a new type of treatment for migraine. CGRP mAbs are the first preventive medicines specifically developed for the treatment of migraine. Several are now available on the NHS. This includes erenumab (brand name Aimovig), fremanezumab (Ajovy), galcanezumab (Emgality) and eptinezumab (Vyepti). The drugs target CGRP, released by the nerves and blood vessels during a migraine attack. It is thought to cause pain. The new drugs target CGRP to prevent migraine developing. All of the medicines are taken by injection, either monthly or every few months. Gepants Gepants are like the tablet form of the injectable CGRPs antibodies described above. There are currently three gepants – ubrogepant (not yet on the NHS), atogepant and rimegepant - and others in development. They are CGRP receptor antagonists. Gepants bind to the CGRP receptors on nerves and block its effects. Gepants (unlike triptans) do not constrict or tighten the blood vessel. They prevent them from dilating. This makes them safer for people with heart issues and they can be used in people with cardiovascular disease. Early indications suggests that gepants may be the first acute treatment not associated with medication overuse headache. Due to this, they may also be used as a preventive treatment. Greater Occipital Nerve (GON) block There are injections which contain small doses of local anaesthetic and/or steroid which is injected around the greater occipital nerve - which travels up each side of the back of the head. Evidence suggests a GON block can provide short-term benefit to some people with migraine, reducing how often migraines occur and their severity. Around one in three people do not see any benefit from a GON block. Lifestyle measures If none of these treatments help a patient's symptoms, or they're getting worse, a referral to a specialist may be made. A GP may also recommend making changes to lifestyle to help manage migraines, such as eating at regular times and drinking less caffeine. These include: Eat meals at regular times Exercise Get plenty of sleep Manage stress Drink plenty of water and less alcohol and caffeine Limit trigger foods, such as spicy food
Daily Mail
05-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Neurologist reveals the McDonald's meal that can instantly beat a migraine: 'It's miraculous!'
A top neurologist has revealed a surprising—and, she claims, science-backed—method to help stave off a migraine. Sufferers of the debilitating headache condition typically rely on painkillers and other medication in order to prevent an attack. Yet in a viral TikTok, expert Dr Jessica Lowe, a US based specialist, said that consuming 'a large Coke' and fries from McDonalds can stop a migraine in its tracks. In the clip, which has amassed more than seven million views, she outlined the 'McDonald's migraine hack', well-known to those that suffer with the ailment. Dr Lowe, who admits suffering chronic migraines, said: 'The order is a large Coke and a large fries. And this somehow miraculously makes your migraine go away.' She goes on to explain that caffeine Coca Cola and salt on the fries is what makes the simple hack so effective. 'So first of all, a large Coke [roughly 950ml] from McDonald's has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it. Right there is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks.' Caffeine is thought to help relieve severe headaches by constricting blood vessels in the brain, reducing inflammation and pressure. It can also block the action of the neurotransmitter adenosine, which increases during migraine attacks and causes pain. 'Also, McDonald's is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around. Salts, electrolytes. Easy,' she added. Imbalances in electrolytes, which are essential minerals like sodium, can trigger migraines. So eating more salty foods will increase your sodium intake and help alleviate migraine pain and reduce the frequency of attacks. 'And then of course, fries or carbs. A lot of people have migraines that are provoked by hunger or just their glucose starting to drop, so those carbs are certainly gonna help out in that department,' Dr Lowe said. Migraines affect an estimated 10 million people in the UK—and 33 per cent of women with the condition are said to have carried it into adulthood, in comparison to 13 per cent of men. According to the NHS, attacks 'usually feel like a very bad headache with a throbbing pain on one side', however there are several other distressing symptoms. Before a migraine hits, sufferers may feel tired, crave certain foods of experience changes in mood or a stiff neck. Others warning signs include vision problems, such as seeing zigzag lines or flashing lights, numbness or a tingling that feels like pins and needles, dizziness and difficulty speaking. The attacks are thought to be caused by abnormal brain activity that temporarily affects nerve signals, chemicals, and blood vessels in the brain—however the exact cause remains unknown. But the neurologist warned the tasty McDonalds option may not be the healthiest. Instead, you can find between 60 to 65 mg of caffeine in over the counter migraine relief like Panmigrol. 'The dose is typically two. So that'll put you between 120 and 130 milligrams of caffeine. That's an easy way to get the caffeine components of this cocktail.' While she also suggested having sports drinks like Powerade is another easy way to increase your electrolytes and will also reduce dehydration. Finishing off, the doctor added: 'But with that being said, you know, we are all human, and when you are feeling unwell, sometimes you just want some comfort food. I get it. Not knocking the hack, just don't make a habit of it.'
