We've all experienced the throbbing discomfort of a
headache that can throw our day off track. Being productive when you have a headache is not easy, and sometimes near impossible. That's why it's important to steer clear of common triggers that cause them in the first place. Here are 7 headache triggers to avoid at all costs:
1. Eating
chemical-filled foods: Watch out for caffeine, alcohol, processed meats, aged cheeses, artificial sweeteners, foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), and any food with a long list of ingredients that you'd have to be a chemist to identify. Keep a food diary. If my husband eats a banana or drinks milk, he'll end up with a throbbing headache. It's important to know your personal triggers.
2. Being dehydrated: Inadequate hydration is a big contributor to headaches. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day (most people need 4 to 6 eight-ounce glasses a day) and reduce consumption of dehydrating beverages like caffeine and alcohol.
3. Not taking care of your eyes: Get your eyes checked regularly to ensure optimal vision; you may need new glasses. Create well-lit environments to reduce eye strain. Adjust lighting to suit your comfort and avoid harsh glare.
4. Inconsistent and/or lack of sleep: Stick to consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Set up a sleep-friendly haven. Think dim lighting, a comfy mattress, and a tranquil atmosphere.
5. Not
taking brain breaks: Give your mind periodic breaks throughout the day. Step away from screens, stretch your legs, or indulge in a quick mental getaway. These short pauses can alleviate mental strain and help prevent headaches.
6. Poor posture: Good posture is a superhero
in the fight against tension headaches. Pay attention to your posture, especially during prolonged sitting. Create an ergonomic workspace, take stretch breaks, and maintain a spine-friendly stance.
7. Stress: Finally, a huge headache trigger for so many people is stress. Try to
avoid stressful situations whenever possible, distance yourself from toxic people, and tame stress with stress-relieving activities like exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and/or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.
Of course, chronic headaches may require a visit to your doctor. But, for
many people, applying these 7 simple lifestyle adjustments can help you bid adieu to those bothersome headaches for good.
P.S. A proper diet and moderate exercise can help reduce stress...a
big headache trigger. Check out my GON GLOW resource. 
