Much Research, No Real Answers

This week we talked about headaches and caffeine, specifically caffeine in our favorite morning beverage. While the health benefits and detriments of coffee have been studied and reported in numerous medical studies, some have been more conclusive then others.

The role caffeine plays in headaches is one of those studies that remains inconclusive, even though a single dose of many pain relievers contains up to 120 milligrams of caffeine, equivalent to most cups of coffee.

According to Science Daily, "research worldwide into the relationship between caffeine consumption and headache provides no relief to headache sufferers wondering whether they should drink more or less". Depending on the study there have been different results and correlations between consumption of caffeine and the cause or cure of headaches.

Science Daily says that according to one large study, the Nord-Trondelag Health Survery (HUNT 2), conducted at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, it was found that "consuming high amounts of caffeine each day has been linked to a greater likelihood of suffering occasional headaches. But, oddly enough, low caffeine consumption was associated with a greater likelihood of chronic headaches".

Because the World Health Organization ranks migraines as 19th amongst all causes of disability, this is one debate that many doctors, patients and employers would like to see find a conclusion.

Until then, know how much caffeine you're taking in and try to keep track of the conditions under which you find yourself with a headache. You might find it's the extra cup, or it might be that missed cup. But you'll know what works for you.