developing a migraine headache, however, three or more servings may be associated with a higher odds of developing a headache,” lead investigator Elizabeth Mostofsky said in a journal news release.
“While some potential triggers — such as lack of sleep — may only increase migraine risk, the role of caffeine is particularly complex, because it may trigger an attack but also helps control symptoms,” Mostofsky notes.
She says that, before this study, there’s been little rigorous research on the role of caffeine in migraine attacks, so there’s been “limited evidence to formulate dietary recommendations for people with migraine.”
But one headache expert says the new study “leaves me with more questions than answers.”
“Do different individuals have different tolerances to caffeine? What is the mechanism of the association between caffeine and headache?,” wondered Dr. Noah Rosen, who directs Northwell Health’s Headache Center in Great Neck, N.Y.
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Still, the data provided is a place to begin, Rosen says.
“Overall, it is an interesting paper that makes us think a little harder,” he adds.”I believe there is not enough information available about caffeine and headache — particularly in this ‘golden age’ of coffeehouses and a high level of daily consumption by the average consumer — and more work like this is important.”
If you have migraines, one or two cups of coffee a day may be okay, but three or more could raise your risk of an attack, according to another study.
However, relying too much on caffeine can cause unpleasant side effects such as migraines, stomach aches and irritability, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Signs you should curb caffeine use are:
- You drink more than four cups per day.
- You’re losing sleep.
- You’re taking medication.
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A safe amount of caffeine is usually under 400 milligrams per day, or less than four cups of coffee, the Mayo Clinic notes.