Caffeine offers short-term headache relief, not long-term

Many people reach for tea or coffee when they have a headache, hoping for relief. Dietitian Sejal Ahuja recently discussed this common belief on Instagram. She explained that caffeine can offer temporary relief by narrowing blood vessels. However, it may worsen headaches in the long run. Ahuja points out that headaches can be caused by stress, anxiety, dehydration, and more. If someone's headache is due to dehydration, caffeine could make it worse. So, while tea or coffee might provide a quick boost, the headache may return soon after. For better headache relief, Ahuja recommends drinking water or other hydrating fluids. Calming options like ginger tea, green tea, or fruit-infused water may also help. A small piece of dark chocolate might alleviate symptoms too. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice is always wise. Experts say up to 400 mg of caffeine a day is safe for most adults, which is about four cups of coffee or eight cups of tea. However, if someone feels jittery or experiences frequent headaches, it could mean they are consuming too much caffeine. Moderation is important, and staying hydrated is the best solution.