Migraine sufferers have heard it all: ice hats, essential oils, ginger tea. The latest advice? Head to McDonald’s and order a large Coca-Cola and fries, dubbed the “McMigraine meal.”
One viral video with 5.7 million views reads: “Trying McDonald’s chips and a Diet Coke because I’ve had a headache for 48 hours and TikTok said it would help.” In the caption, the TikTok creator confirmed the hack worked.
@millyhancockk Can confirm it works 😭
♬ original sound – Franklin Saint
Another posted, “the migraine girls get it” while pulling up to a McDonald’s drive-through. A third asked, “can someone please explain why the McMigraine always works?”
While TikTok health hacks should be taken with a generous pinch of salt, this one may have some basis in science. “This is a hack that’s relatively well known in the migraine community,” neurologist and fellow migraine sufferer Jessica Lowe (@doctorbrainbarbie), explained in a TikTok video with 9.3 million views. “A large coke from Mcdonalds has about 80 milligrams of caffeine in it. That right there is probably enough to stop your migraine in its tracks.”
@doctorbrainbarbie McDonald’s Migraine hack explained by a Neurologist. 🧠🍟🥤 #migraine #migraines #migrainerelief #migrainetiktok #headache #headacherelief #neurology
♬ original sound – Doctor Brain Barbie 💖
Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor—meaning it narrows blood vessels, which helps counter the dilation that occurs during a migraine. The fries offer both electrolytes and carbohydrates. “Mcdonalds is well known to have some of the saltiest fries around,” Lowe added. Electrolytes can ease migraine symptoms tied to dehydration or low sodium, while carbs may help if the trigger is hunger or a drop in blood sugar.
Still, proceed with caution. For some people, caffeine and fast food can trigger migraines rather than relieve them. Dr. Kay Kennis, a trustee for the Migraine Trust and a GP who specializes in migraines, told the BBC that McDonald’s food may also contain high levels of tyramine—a known potential trigger.
If you’re struggling with migraines, consult your healthcare provider to explore treatment options. But if you’re craving McDonald’s in the meantime, go for it—you just might get some relief.
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