Why Does Gatorade Cure Headaches?
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Gatorade and Headaches
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Gatorade is often recommended as a cure for headaches. This is because headaches are often related to dehydration, particularly during the summer months and in active individuals. Gatorade does not actually treat the pain of the headache; rather, the beverage is used to replenish the body's store of liquids and electrolytes. The Gatorade resolves the cause of the headache, which eliminates the pain.
How Dehydration Causes Headaches
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When an individual's water intake is insufficient, this dehydration can trigger head pain. In some people, this pain can lead to a more serious migraine headache if it is not treated in a timely fashion. Dehydration means that, besides water, the body also desperately needs electrolytes that are used to regulate pH levels. A headache is generally one of the body's first responses to severe dehydration and is designed to send out a warning that liquids and electrolytes are needed immediately. Ignoring this cue can result in fainting, vomiting and cramps, among other symptoms.
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How Gatorade Helps
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Gatorade is fortified with electrolytes that the body is missing when it is dehydrated. Drinking Gatorade can help eliminate dehydration-related headaches more quickly than water for this reason. If experiencing symptoms related to dehydration, drink 16 oz. Gatorade. The liquid should kick in within an hour and relieve the head pain. After drinking the initial 16 oz. amount, continue to sip Gatorade until the pain subsides. If the symptoms have already progressed to a more severe headache, accompanied by nausea or dizziness, relax and sip the Gatorade a bit at a time. If the dehydration has reached that point, Gatorade may not be able to relieve the pain. Intravenous fluids may be required.
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