Top 10 unfavorable cities for people with migraines

Top 10 unfavorable cities for people with migraines

A migraine is a severe, recurrent, throbbing headache that typically develops on one side of the head. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light. Unlike regular headaches, migraines may last anywhere from a few hours to days, disrupting daily routine. Due to its severity, one may consider making some changes to avoid migraine triggers, which include environmental factors. Based on this, here are unfavorable cities for people with migraines.

Unfavorable cities
The following cities ranked poorly on the best cities scale, making them the most unfavorable for those with migraines:

1. Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN
The lifestyle factors, such as long commute times, overtime hours, and stress levels in Cincinnati, take it to the top of the list of unfavorable cities to live in for people with migraines. Additionally, the city’s local food features several trigger foods that can contribute to a higher frequency of migraines. Recently, there has also been an increased risk of climate change, leading to winter warming, heavy rains, and floods, which could trigger a migraine.

2. Madison, WI
Madison, Wisconsin, has a higher number of reported migraines or headaches per capita. This could be due to the unfavorable weather conditions (large seasonal temperature variance) in the city. The situation may also be further compounded by the high intake of trigger foods in the area, such as chocolates and pizzas.

3. Little Rock, AR
Little Rock ranks high on the list of unfavorable cities for people with migraine to live in due to its rapidly changing weather. The city experiences extreme heat in the summer months. Due to changes in barometric pressure, it is also highly susceptible to frequent thunderstorms, which may trigger migraine attacks.

4. Knoxville, TN
Cities in Tennessee have reported high barometric pressure changes, which could be linked to a change in weather conditions. Additionally, several lifestyle factors, such as long work hours, commute time, and food habits, can make matters worse for those with migraines. A combination of these factors has landed Knoxville on the list of unfavorable cities for people with migraines.

5. St. Louis, MO-IL
St. Louis is home to frequent weather changes, which could negatively impact those dealing with migraines. These changes are linked to barometric pressure drops, which could give rise to migraine symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, numbness in the face or neck, pain (on both sides of the head), and increased sensitivity to light. Further, the city of St. Louis is known for its busy life, which can increase the risk of stress, which is one of the top triggers of migraine headaches.

6. Nashville, TN
Nashville, too, has a high number of environmental factors that earn the city its place on this list. According to some studies, the city’s barometric pressure has been listed as a potential trigger for migraine headaches. The city is also home to unfavorable climate conditions, including frequent changes, extreme heat, and an increased likelihood of storms, which make it unfavorable for those living with migraines.

7. Johnson City-Kingsport, TN, and Bristol, VA
Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol are tied for seventh position on the list of most unfavorable cities for people with migraines. This is largely due to environmental factors such as extreme weather and barometric pressure, eating habits, and lifestyle factors such as high stress levels, which could potentially act as migraine triggers.

8. Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is the fourth Tennessee city on this list. According to experts, most weather-triggered migraine attacks are a result of barometric pressure changes that lead to transitions in weather. Chattanooga experiences several pressure changes a year, increasing the risk of headaches and other symptoms for those with migraines.

9. Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson, SC
Due to lifestyle factors such as high stress levels and eating habits, the areas of Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson also rank high on the list of unfavorable cities for those with migraines.

10. Canton-Massillon, OH
People in the city of Canton have reported high stress levels and irregular sleep patterns. Experts suggest that this may be a result of economic factors, which can contribute to an increased frequency of migraine headaches.

Albuquerque, New Mexico, was also featured on this list due to its environmental factors that could trigger migraines. Other cities that rank high on this list include Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky. According to the CDC, people living in these cities had more reports of trouble sleeping per capita, adding to stress levels and increasing the likelihood of migraines.

Criteria for the ratings
The ranking is based on a study conducted by BestPlaces. The platform used the following criteria to rank 110 cities from most to least favorable for those living with migraines:

– The prevalence of certain migraine-related prescriptions filled per capita
– Lifestyle factors that may contribute to migraines such as hours worked, overtime worked, plane travel, frequency of vigorous exercise, frequency of having trouble sleeping, and frequency of sunburn
– Exposure to environmental factors that may trigger migraines, such as barometric pressure changes (measurement of air pressure in the atmosphere), rapidly changing weather, extreme temperatures, divorce rate, and commute time
– High intake of migraine-triggering foods such as citrus fruits and juices, cheese, chocolate, pickles, sour cream, nuts, pizza, coffee, tea, cola, foods with nitrates in them, hot dogs, sausages, peanut butter, and more

Based on these factors, some of the most favorable cities for migraine sufferers include New Haven-Bridgeport-Stamford and Boston-Worcester-Lawrence, CT; McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX; El Paso, TX; Salinas, CA; Miami, FL; Honolulu, HI; Los Angeles, CA; Fresno, CA.

Studies have found that mountainous regions are more likely to experience barometric pressure changes, increasing the frequency or severity of migraines. This factor dissipated significantly in areas that were flat and had a gentler climate, such as the Pacific Northwest. Those looking to relocate must look for a city with the fewest environmental triggers and the best access to healthcare. Nevertheless, lifestyle factors that act as triggers can often be controlled by modifying eating habits and inculcating a self-care routine that may reduce the frequency of migraines.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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Top 9 migraine-friendly desserts

Migraine is a neurological condition marked by throbbing headaches and other symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. The condition can significantly disrupt one’s daily life. While the causes of migraines are complex and multifaceted, it is well established that certain foods can play a substantial role in triggering a migraine episode. This article lists a selection of delicious desserts that migraine sufferers can have without worry. Desserts to enjoy while avoiding migraine triggers Fortunately, there are creative and delicious dessert options for migraine sufferers that avoid the triggers above. Here are some delectable alternatives: 1. Strawberries and cream pop This low-sugar treat is rich in antioxidants from strawberries and healthy fats from coconut oil. Individuals should avoid peaches, blueberries, or mangoes in the mix, as they may trigger migraines. 2. Carob butter Made with toasted sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, stevia, carob powder, and coconut oil, this alternative to chocolate spreads is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the migraine risk. This can be paired with crackers for satiety. 3. Almond-orange cake An almond-orange cake with homemade cream cheese frosting is a gluten-free, low-carb option perfect for migraine sufferers. Almonds provide magnesium, while oranges add a burst of antioxidants. 4. Carob pudding One can substitute chocolate with carob powder and sweeten it with dates. Using cooked millet instead of flour can not only keep gluten risk at bay but also help boost the magnesium intake found in millet. 5. Carrot muffins Carrots are an excellent source of magnesium and antioxidants. One can use gluten-free and add cinnamon to create a delicious, migraine-friendly dessert. 6. Oatmeal cookies These gluten-free desserts don’t typically trigger migraines. Oatmeal, a low-risk ingredient, forms the wholesome base. Combined with controlled sugar content and optional add-ins like raisins or dark chocolate chips, they offer a delightful treat that individuals with food sensitivities can enjoy. 7. Rice pudding Rice pudding is a delightful dessert that is generally considered migraine-friendly. It is made with cooked rice, milk, and sugar and often flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, or other non-triggering ingredients; rice pudding offers a creamy and satisfying sweetness without the risk of triggering migraines. 8. Blueberry pie The natural sweetness of blueberries and the absence of common migraine-inducing ingredients make this classic dessert a delightful choice for those who want to satisfy their sweet tooth without headache concerns. 9. Fresh fruits Eating fresh fruits like melons, pears, apples, peaches, apricots, and kiwis is a delicious and migraine-friendly choice. These fruits are generally well-tolerated by most individuals and can be enjoyed without the risk of triggering migraines. Other migraine-friendly foods to eat Apart from desserts, one can also incorporate leafy greens like spinach, kale, and other greens rich in magnesium, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids like salmon to prevent migraine flares. Also, one should drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid migraines. Dehydration, induced by factors like hot weather, physical activity, or even specific oral treatments, is a recognized and prevalent migraine trigger. Ensuring one's body is well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining stable blood flow and electrolyte balance. It's a simple yet effective preventive measure that can help minimize the risk of migraines. Ingredients to avoid in desserts for migraine sufferers Individuals with specific food allergies or sensitivities, such as gluten or lactose intolerance, can experience migraines when they consume triggering ingredients. Some food ingredients may find their way into desserts, making it important for migraine sufferers to be vigilant about their food choices. The triggers can vary from person to person, but some common culprits are well documented. Here are a few foods known to cause migraines: 1. Chocolate Chocolate contains phenylethylamine, which is a compound linked to migraine headaches in some individuals. 2. Nuts It's best to avoid using ingredients like almonds, peanuts, and other nuts when making desserts. These foods contain an amino acid called tyramine, which is linked to migraine triggers for some individuals. 3. Gluten-rich foods For individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, consuming gluten, a protein type, can trigger migraines and other health issues. Common gluten-containing foods are grains like barley, rye, or wheat. 4. Citrus fruits Citrus fruits are generally a healthy choice to help prevent migraines. Still, some individuals may find that oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes occasionally trigger headaches, so monitoring their impact on one's migraines and adjusting one's food intake is advisable. 5. Caffeine Caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant found in coffee, tea, and various other beverages and foods, can be a double-edged sword for some individuals. While caffeine can temporarily boost alertness and focus, it can also trigger or worsen migraine headaches in susceptible people. It’s important to slowly cut back on coffee, as suddenly discontinuing its intake can worsen migraine symptoms. 6. Chemical additives Chemical additives are another important factor to consider regarding potential migraine triggers. Artificial sweeteners, commonly found in desserts, including sugar-free ones, can worsen migraines. Flavor enhancers, like MSG, prevalent in some processed foods and restaurant dishes, and preservatives used in some desserts and packaged foods, can contain compounds that may trigger migraines. Other factors that may trigger migraine attacks Apart from foods, other things can trigger migraines in individuals. This includes hormonal fluctuations, which can particularly affect women at different stages of life. Weather or altitude changes, such as sudden shifts in barometric pressure, can also contribute to migraine onset. Dehydration, often overlooked, is a potent migraine trigger, making it crucial to stay adequately hydrated. Mental stress and emotional factors can play a significant role in migraine occurrence, as can fatigue or a lack of sleep, emphasizing the importance of managing stress and ensuring sufficient rest for migraine-prone individuals. Understanding and addressing all triggers is vital to effectively managing and mitigating migraine episodes.Top 9 migraine-friendly desserts

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