Headaches
Because sugar alters the brain’s chemical equilibrium in a similar way to that of addictive substances, sugar detox may produce headaches. Drastically reducing sugar consumption will cause an immune reaction to the brain because of the rapid shift in diet. As previously mentioned, dopamine has been shown to play a crucial part in motivation and mood and is the neurotransmitter responsible for the brain’s reward system.
Dopaminergic sensations are linked to migraine and are thought to be caused by fluctuations in dopamine levels. Dopaminergic signs and symptoms include yawning, weariness, nausea, and mood changes. Moreover, dopamine has been hypothesized in many studies to have a part in migraine development. Migraine sufferers are more susceptible to dopamine agonists for alleviating symptoms like nausea and yawning.
Also, migraines and other forms of headache are caused by waves of activity in networks of excitable brain cells. The changes in the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin cause vasoconstriction. Synaptic transmission between neurons relies on serotonin. Consequences include local and systemic vasoconstriction, which can lead to headaches. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killer, which is proven to be more potent than morphine. However, endorphin levels are reduced in sugar withdrawal, making headaches and migraines less tolerable.
