McMigraine: truth or hoax? What doctors (really) say

 

Salty fries, a cold Coke, and the migraine is gone? This combo called "McMigraine" seduces social networks... But doctors are urging caution.

Where does this strange idea come from?

On TikTok, many videos have been sharing a so-called miracle cure for migraines in recent weeks: ordering a savory and sweet menu at a fast food restaurant. A well-caffeinated Coke + generous fries = relief guaranteed, say some migraine users.

This viral trend has been named "McMigraine", in a nod to a well-known fast food chain. And it is not limited to a few testimonies: millions of views, enthusiastic comments, and even an intervention by an American neurologist, relayed in a viral video, support this "fashion".

What the Science Says About Caffeine and Migraines

On the substance, there is some truth. Caffeine - present in both Coke and coffee - can relieve some migraines. It works by slightly constricting the dilated blood vessels in the brain, which can reduce pain. This is why it is found in the composition of certain analgesic drugs sold in pharmacies.

But be careful: this effect is highly individual. For some people, caffeine can actually trigger an attack. Dr. Kennis, a neurologist quoted by the BBC, points out that "overconsumption of caffeine is a known factor in the onset of migraines in some patients."

And what about the salt in the fries?

The other argument put forward by the followers of the "McMigraine" is that well-salted fries would help relieve the migraine. What for? Because salt would help rebalance electrolytes, especially sodium, which are sometimes lower in people who have not eaten or drunk enough.

Here again, this is a reality... to be nuanced. In some cases, such as during prolonged fasting or mild dehydration, eating a salty food can actually alleviate some of the symptoms associated with a migraine (fatigue, dizziness). However, this does not solve the fundamental problem. And above all, excessive salt consumption - as is often the case in fast food menus - can aggravate other health factors, and even promote headaches in some people.

What neurologists say

Doctors are unanimous: no food can cure a migraine, but certain nutritional factors can help prevent or modulate attacks. Neurologist Wilfrid Casseron, interviewed by Doctissimo, reminds us that each migraine patient is unique: "For some people, fasting should be avoided; for others, limit meals that are too fatty, or even chocolate...".


What works for one person can make another person's symptoms worse. He adds that the best strategy is based on personal knowledge of the triggers: stress, bright light, lack of sleep, certain smells or foods. A fundamental approach, far from the viral ""express solutions" on the networks.

McMigraine: a false friend?

Beyond its questionable effectiveness, the "McMigraine menu" can prove counterproductive in the long term. The ultra-processed foods often found in fast food restaurants contain additives, saturated fats, and sometimes substances like tyramine, which is known to cause migraines in some individuals.


In addition, in the case of chronic migraines, unsupervised food self-medication can delay appropriate medical care. Specialists therefore recommend consulting a professional to establish a personalized follow-up and, if necessary, benefit from an appropriate treatment.

The "McMigraine" menu makes you smile, intrigue, and feeds a trend in the air of the times: looking for quick solutions. However, when it comes to migraines, dietary shortcuts are no substitute for caution or medical expertise. The real key? Listening to your body, understanding your reactions... and leave TikTok to what it does best: entertain, not diagnose.