A TikTok-famous “migraine meal” consisting of McDonald’s French fries and Coca-Cola has split medical opinion, with doctors acknowledging some scientific basis while warning against relying on fast food for headache relief.
At a Glance
- A viral TikTok trend claims a “McMigraine” meal of McDonald’s fries and Coca-Cola can relieve migraine symptoms
- Caffeine in Coca-Cola may help constrict blood vessels, potentially easing headache pain
- Salt in the fries might help if migraines are linked to mineral deficiencies
- Neurologists caution this should not replace proper medical treatment for chronic migraines
- The combination may actually trigger migraines in some individuals
The Viral “McMigraine” Phenomenon
A specific McDonald’s order has taken TikTok by storm, with users claiming it relieves migraine headaches. The viral remedy, dubbed the “migraine meal” or “McMigraine,” consists of a large order of McDonald’s French fries paired with a large Coca-Cola. One TikTok video promoting this unusual headache treatment has garnered over 3.8 million views, with countless comments from users sharing their positive experiences with the combination. Some proponents even specify that only regular Coca-Cola works—not Diet Coke—though there’s no scientific evidence supporting this distinction.
The Science Behind The Claims
Medical experts acknowledge there might be some legitimacy to why this combination provides relief for certain individuals. The caffeine in Coca-Cola acts as a vasoconstrictor, narrowing blood vessels that might be dilated during a migraine attack. This mechanism explains why caffeine is often an ingredient in over-the-counter migraine medications. Additionally, the carbonation in the soda may help settle nausea, a common migraine symptom. The salty fries could potentially address mineral imbalances, as some research suggests sodium deficiencies might be linked to headache disorders.
Some experts also point out that the sugar in regular Coca-Cola might help raise blood glucose levels quickly, which could be beneficial if low blood sugar is triggering the headache. The combination of sugar, salt, and caffeine may effectively rebalance several systems simultaneously, providing some individuals with quick relief. However, neurologists emphasize that these effects would be temporary at best.
Medical Concerns and Limitations
Despite anecdotal success stories, healthcare professionals express significant reservations about promoting fast food as a migraine remedy. The high sodium content in McDonald’s fries and the substantial sugar load in regular Coca-Cola pose long-term health risks if consumed regularly. Doctors warn that what works as a rare quick fix should not become a habitual treatment approach. Additionally, what helps one person might actually trigger migraines in another, as both caffeine and fried foods are known migraine triggers for many sufferers.
Migraines can be severely debilitating, causing throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound that may last for hours or even days. People experiencing frequent or severe migraines should consult healthcare providers for comprehensive treatment plans rather than relying on temporary relief measures. Dr. Brintha Vasagar clarified to Fox News Digital that while this combination might help some individuals, “it’s not a migraine cure or prevention method” and could potentially worsen symptoms for others.
Healthier Alternatives
Medical professionals suggest several healthier approaches for addressing migraines than relying on fast food. Staying properly hydrated is essential, as dehydration is a common migraine trigger. For those seeking caffeine’s potential benefits, experts recommend less processed sources like green tea or matcha, which provide caffeine without the added sugar of soda. Maintaining regular meals to avoid blood sugar fluctuations, getting adequate sleep, managing stress, and identifying personal triggers through food diaries can all contribute to more effective migraine management.
For those experiencing frequent or severe migraines, prescription medications designed specifically for prevention and treatment offer more reliable relief. Many effective options are available, including triptans, CGRP inhibitors, and preventive medications that can reduce both the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Ultimately, while the “McMigraine” might provide temporary relief in a pinch, working with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan remains the most effective approach to managing this complex neurological condition.
