A TikTok trend known as the "migraine meal" is gaining millions of views — and it's not your usual remedy. The combination? A large Coke and McDonald's fries.
Many migraine sufferers online are swearing by it, claiming it can ease painful headaches fast.
According to NY Post, One viral video, with over 3 million views, shows a young woman in a McDonald's drive-thru with text that reads, "Trying McDonald's chips [fries] and a Diet Coke because I've had a headache for 48 hours and TikTok said it would help."
She's not alone. The comment section is full of people sharing similar experiences.
"I know it's just the salt and caffeine but every time I have a migraine or even one coming on I get a coke and a fry and it's immediately cured," one commenter said. Another added, "It's my go-to!! I take my migraine meds, sip a Diet Coke, and as my pain goes away, I crave salt..."
Experts say yes — to an extent. Dr. David Walker, a physician, explained that caffeine, like the kind found in Coke, can help relieve migraines when used with medications like ibuprofen. He noted that it's not unexpected for the caffeine in Coca-Cola to provide some relief.
Caffeine isn't just found in your morning coffee — it's also a common ingredient in several over-the-counter migraine medications.
A particular fast food order — often called the "McDonald's migraine meal" online — might hold the sweet, salty power to stop a migraine in its tracks. https://t.co/2CaVfcZZlK
— NBC10 Boston (@NBC10Boston) May 17, 2025
Doctors Weigh In on McDonald's Migraine Meal Trend
According to Dr. Matthew Robbins, a neurologist at Weill Cornell Medicine, caffeine can make other pain relievers work better.
"Caffeine has analgesic properties and improves the strength of other medications," Robbins explained.
Some doctors suggest the salty fries might help by replacing lost minerals. Migraines can sometimes be triggered by low sodium levels, and salty foods can act like a quick source of electrolytes, Today said.
Plus, fries are high in carbohydrates, which can help stabilize blood sugar — something that drops for some people before a migraine attack.
"There's also the craving factor," Robbins noted. He explained that many migraine sufferers get strong cravings before their headaches hit.
For some people, comfort during a headache might come in the form of salty or sweet treats — like a serving of fries and a fizzy soda.
Still, doctors warn that this hack isn't for everyone. Some people might feel worse after greasy or sugary food, especially if they're already nauseous. Others may find that this combo even triggers a migraine instead of helping.
Robbins mentioned that while it's fine if this method helps someone feel better occasionally, relying on it too often isn't a healthy habit.
Doctors say that while this fast food trick might work occasionally, it shouldn't replace real migraine treatment. Regular migraines may need medication, lifestyle changes, or help from a specialist.
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