A viral TikTok trend suggests that a simple McDonald’s meal combination might offer surprising relief for those suffering from debilitating migraines.
At a Glance
- The combination of McDonald’s Coca-Cola and french fries, dubbed “McMigraine,” has gone viral on TikTok as a migraine remedy
- Neurologist Dr. Jessica Lowe explains that caffeine in Coke constricts blood vessels, potentially providing headache relief
- The salt and carbohydrates in McDonald’s fries may help balance electrolytes and boost serotonin levels
- While some migraine sufferers report significant relief, experts caution against making this a regular treatment
- Healthier alternatives include Excedrin for caffeine, Gatorade for electrolytes, and nutritious carbohydrate sources
The Science Behind the “McMigraine” Relief
Migraines affect approximately ten million people in the UK alone, with symptoms ranging from throbbing pain and vision problems to numbness and difficulty speaking. The exact cause remains unknown, but involves abnormal brain activity affecting nerve signals and blood vessels. This has led many sufferers to experiment with various remedies, including an unexpected fast food combination that’s gained traction online. Dr. Jessica Lowe, a neurologist who also suffers from chronic migraines, recently explained the science behind this viral remedy.
According to Dr. Lowe, the caffeine in a large McDonald’s Coca-Cola (approximately 80 mg) can help constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation, potentially stopping a migraine in its tracks. Meanwhile, the salty french fries provide crucial electrolytes and sodium, which may help rebalance levels that can be disrupted during a migraine attack. Additionally, the carbohydrates in the fries could help if the migraine was triggered by hunger or low blood sugar levels.
User Experiences and Testimonials
The TikTok trend has gained momentum as numerous users share their positive experiences with the McDonald’s migraine solution. Many report that this specific combination provides relief when other remedies have failed. What’s particularly interesting is the insistence that it must be McDonald’s specifically—something about the unique preparation of their Coca-Cola and fries seems to make a difference for many sufferers.
Other users have shared similar experiences, noting that the combination works particularly well for migraine-associated nausea. The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola, combined with its sugar content, may help settle the stomach in a way similar to some anti-nausea medications. McDonald’s fries, known for their consistent saltiness, may further help with electrolyte balance and provide comfort during a migraine attack.
Medical Perspective and Cautions
While many find relief in this fast-food remedy, medical experts urge caution about relying on it regularly. Dr. Lowe acknowledges the potential benefits but emphasizes that it shouldn’t become a habit due to the health implications of frequent fast food consumption. Regular intake of sugary drinks and fried foods can lead to health issues like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, potentially creating more problems than the temporary relief is worth.
Another important consideration is that caffeine can be both a remedy and a trigger for migraines, depending on the individual. Some people find that caffeine withdrawal can trigger migraines, while others may find that caffeine itself is a trigger. Dr. David Walker notes, “It’s great that this helps certain individuals. I don’t think it should be generalized because on the flip side of things, fried foods can trigger migraines.” Experts recommend identifying personal triggers and avoiding them as the best preventative approach.
Healthier Alternatives
For those who find relief with the McDonald’s combination but are concerned about the health implications, Dr. Lowe suggests healthier alternatives that provide similar benefits. Excedrin Migraine offers caffeine without the sugar content of soda. For electrolytes, sports drinks like Gatorade can be effective. And rather than french fries, other carbohydrate sources like whole grain bread or crackers can provide energy without the excess fat and salt of fried foods.
While the “McMigraine” remedy might offer quick relief in desperate situations, developing a comprehensive migraine management plan with a healthcare provider remains the most effective long-term strategy. This should include identifying triggers, establishing preventive measures, and having appropriate medication on hand for when migraines do occur. For many, the McDonald’s hack may be an occasional emergency solution rather than a first-line treatment.
