The McDonald's Combo That Could Get Rid of Your Migraine

Social media users claim that a large McDonald’s French fries and Coke—a combo dubbed the "McMigraine meal"—can relieve migraine pain. Experts say this hack may not work for everyone, but there is some truth behind the idea.

How Could a Large Coke Ease Migraine Pain?

The McMigraine meal includes two key components: salty fries and a sugary, caffeinated soda.

"We know the caffeine can help migraines in the short-term therapy of them. So it isn't too surprising that the caffeine in Coca-Cola itself is helpful," David Walker, MD, a headache and facial pain specialist at Rush University Medical Center, told Verywell.

The carbonation in Coca-Cola could also help settle the stomach for people who feel nauseous, he added.

Some migraine medications, like Excedrin, contain caffeine. However, caffeine has been shown to both help and trigger migraines, so sipping soda won't work for everyone.

How Could Fries Help Relieve Migraines?

Dehydration can also trigger migraines. McDonald's notoriously salty fries provide electrolytes, which might explain why the McMigraine meal helps, Walker said.

Similarly, some social media users claim that drinking saltwater helps manage their migraine symptoms. In a 2016 study, sodium-rich diets were linked to a lower chance of migraine attacks.

However, research has also found a link between sodium intake and longer migraine headaches.

"It's great that this helps certain individuals. I don't think it should be generalized because on the flip side of things, fried foods can trigger migraines," Walker said.

The McMigraine combo actually contains migraine triggers for some people, like salty foods, processed foods, and sugary drinks, said Walker. However, fries may help replenish carbs and ease symptoms for someone who skipped a meal, he added.

Should You Try the McMigraine Meal?

Travel, stress, and changes to your routine can all trigger migraine pain. Ordering the McMigraine meal might be a comforting ritual for someone with migraine, according to Walker.

"I think there's a psychological component going on here. I don't think this should be ignored," he added.  

Even if the McMigraine meal helps with your migraine symptoms, regularly eating fast food can lead to other health problems like overweight, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and high blood pressure.

"The golden rule is, if you know what causes migraine, avoid it. Whether it's food items, drink items, or situational items, if you can avoid that, obviously that's the best way," Mohab Ibrahim, MD, PhD, medical director at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction, told Verywell.

Experts are still learning exactly what causes migraines, but genetics, stress, hormonal changes, weather, and sleep disturbances can contribute. Various medications and lifestyle treatments exist to help people manage their symptoms.

"Please weigh the risks and benefits before you jump into a certain diet or supplement or something like that. The best way to do this is to discuss it with your physician," Ibrahim said.