Why You Need More Fiber If You Struggle With Headaches, According To Research

It's estimated that up to 18% of the world's population experiences migraines1 or recurrent painful headaches, with even more people dealing with headaches on a regular basis. But why?

For this study, researchers from China wanted to look at how dietary fiber affected the prevalence and severity of migraines and headaches in participants. To do so, they analyzed existing data on fiber and headaches from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

And based on their findings, it would appear fiber might play more of a role in headaches than we previously thought. Namely, the researchers saw that there was a significant association between the two, with more dietary fiber leading to a decrease in severe headaches and migraines.

For every increase of 10 grams of fiber per day, there was an 11% decrease in the prevalence of headaches and migraines, the researchers observed.

If indeed, fiber can help us ward off headaches and migraines, the solution is simple: Get more fiber in your diet! Fiber is present in tons of different foods, from grains to fruits and vegetables, as well as legumes, nuts, and seeds.

A lot of us suffer from headaches and migraines, and according to this research, fiber might be able to help. Research shows that getting enough fiber daily can also promote gut health, immune function, digestion, blood sugar balance, healthy bowel movements, and more.