Vaping, Skipping Meals Major Headache Triggers for Teens

Vaping and skipping meals may be major headache triggers for teenagers, according to a new study.

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 5 million children and teens and found both of these habits were associated with frequent headaches… defined as more than one a week.

The participants, who were part of a large Canadian health survey, reported on lifestyle factors including screen time, sleep hours, meals eaten and substance use.

The results showed kids who regularly ate breakfast and dinner with their family had an 8 percent lower risk of frequent headaches compared to those who regularly missed meals.

12-17-year-olds who used e-cigarettes daily had twice the odds of frequent headaches

As did children with anxiety and mood disorders.

One author says, “It is possible regular family meals may lead to greater connectedness and communication within the family, and better mental health outcomes, which in turn may impact headache frequency.”

No links were found between frequent headaches and sleep, screen time and other substance use.