5 replies to this topic

[rwac]

I get an intense headache if I exercise for a while.
For example a 2.5 hr hike, or working with free weights for 45 minutes to an hour.

My current theory is that it might be due to my brain switching to lactic acid as an energy source.

Anyone else experienced this ?

Does my theory make sense ?

[Brinksbury]

Sounds like you're dehydrated.

If its really hot out when you're doing this and you sweat a lot, you need to drink water. Even better if you mix up some 'oral rehydration solution' (google it).

It could be something else, but thats the most likely.

I'm guessing you live in the Northern Hemisphere. (Which would make it the middle of summer)

[ajnast4r]

I get an intense headache if I exercise for a while.
For example a 2.5 hr hike, or working with free weights for 45 minutes to an hour.

My current theory is that it might be due to my brain switching to lactic acid as an energy source.

Anyone else experienced this ?

Does my theory make sense ?

what type of meal do you have and when, before you hike or lift?

[rwac]

I did drink about a litre of water, but maybe thats not enough ?

I had a couple of eggs and some cheese an hour before the hike.

The headache lasted about a day and a half after the hike, even though I was trying to drink as much water as possible.

I had some post-workout drink too. That should re-hydrate decently, shouldn't it ?

Also, my glycogen stores are probably pretty low, if that makes a difference.
I try to limit my carbs.

Edited by rwac, 20 July 2009 - 05:02 AM.

[ajnast4r]

Also, my glycogen stores are probably pretty low, if that makes a difference.
I try to limit my carbs.

yup... thats what i was getting at. the headache was almost certainly from your lack of carbs. exercise and low-carb diets generally dont mix for most people...

you should try to have 1/4-1/2 cup of oats with your meal before exercise... theres no need to be carbophobic around exercise time, especially beforehand. complex carbs will only serve to benefit your exercising... you will have better endurance, increased gains in muscle, less depression of the immune system & more improved mood if you consume them beforehand.

Edited by ajnast4r, 21 July 2009 - 03:26 AM.

[4eva]

Post workout headaches are not uncommon. If it is lack of fuel for your brain you could try some glutamine. But there is a good deal of discussion of this topic on the net without any real explanation as to the cause. Caffiene is mentioned as a possible solution.