The Double-Edged Sword: Migraine Treatments and the Risk of Insulin Resistance

Title: How Coffee Might Be Fueling Your Migraines   Today, we’re diving into a topic that might just change the way you think about your morning ritual. If you’re someone who can’t function without that first cup of coffee, you’re not alone. But what if I told you that your trusty caffeine fix could actually be working against you?   In this episode, we’re uncovering the surprising connection between caffeine and migraines. We’ll walk through the journey of Sue, one of our Freedom from Migraine Method graduates, who relied on coffee for energy and migraine relief—until she realized it was making things worse. Her story is proof that small, intentional changes can have a huge impact on your health and well-being. In this episode, you’ll hear: How caffeine can become less effective over time, leading to increased fatigue and migraines. The role of caffeine in pain relief and why its effects diminish with frequent use. The impact of caffeine on sleep quality and why it might be making you more tired, not less. How caffeine dependency can develop in as little as seven days. The science behind caffeine’s effect on the brain and its link to migraine triggers. Why caffeine withdrawal can mimic migraine symptoms and how to prevent those dreaded weekend headaches. The genetic factors that determine how your body metabolizes caffeine. Practical steps for reducing caffeine intake without suffering withdrawal symptoms. How Sue successfully adjusted her caffeine consumption and found freedom from migraines. Resources: How to Spot a Migraine Scam: https://debbiewaidl.com/migrainescam/optin    Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbiewaidl.migrainefree/ Women’s Migraine Freedom Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-waidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/   Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.   

How many dreams are collecting cobwebs in your mind because migraines are holding you back?  That trip you’ve always wanted to take? The time you long to spend with your grandkids? The hobbies you’ve put on hold? I know it can be hard to picture your life without migraines, but doing so just might be the first step in your healing journey.  In this month’s Mindfulness Monthly Migraine Relief episode, I’m sharing an exercise that will inspire you to pursue the fulfilling life that awaits you!  Life is short, and there will never be a "perfect" time to start healing your migraines. If you’re ready to leave your migraines behind so you can live to the fullest, this episode is for you!   In this episode, you’ll hear: The power of mindfulness in your Migraine Freedom™ journey The science behind how shifting from stress to relaxation reduces your migraines My favorite step-by-step mindfulness exercise that will help you transition from chronic to acute stress responses for fewer pain-filled days Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at my personal journey to migraine freedom™  Resources: In case you missed it, click here to listen to Diamond Tip #1. If you want to hear more, click here to listen to Diamond Tip #2. Join the Free Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Group, and be sure to share your Diamond Tip experiences with us!   Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/ Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.   

If you are thinking about trying birth control pills and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to heal your migraines, there are a few things you need to know first.  Your doctor may encourage you to take this route for pain relief, but there is a lot of information that they don’t share with you – including side effects and why this isn’t the solution you think it is. In this month’s Migraine Freedom™ Q&A podcast episode, I’m answering a question from community member Heather, spilling the hidden truth about birth control and HRT – and sharing the real solution to healing your migraines for life-long freedom!   In this episode, you’ll hear: Why HRT and birth control are not long-term solutions to your migraine pain. The Hormone Hierarchy that contributes to migraines. When HRT and birth control can help hormonal migraines. How to achieve lasting Migraine Freedom™ with a holistic approach.   Resources: Listen to this podcast episode, where I go deeper into the Hormone Hierarchy! Join the FREE Women’s Migraine Freedom™ group to ask your own questions about finding true migraine relief!   Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/   Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.  

Are you a nurse, doctor, or professional in healthcare who has access to research, knowledge, and the very tools of conventional medicine yet still struggles with debilitating migraines? It can feel so discouraging when you understand the science and know the treatments but are trapped in a cycle of managing your pain, not ending it. Instead of living pain-free, you’re chained to medications, Botox, injections – anything to get you through the day.  In this week’s podcast episode, we're sharing the inspiring stories of four women in healthcare who broke free from this cycle using the holistic and personalized approach we teach in The Freedom From Migraines Method® (FFMM) Nicole, Christine, Susan, and Jaci all learned that true healing goes beyond symptom management and addresses the root causes of migraines. If you’re someone in healthcare – or just someone who struggles with chronic migraines – this episode is for you!   In this episode, you’ll hear: The “aha” moment for Nicole, a nurse with over 20 years of migraine experience, that led her to heal the root cause of her migraines. How Christine, a dental hygienist, eradicated her perimenopause migraines with a safe, non-medical approach. Why Susan’s professional passion for individualized care was the springboard she needed to pursue her own personalized migraine relief plan. The sustainable migraine solution that helped Jaci, a nurse practitioner, take back control of her life without prescription meds or Botox. How even women in healthcare struggle to find answers to their migraines – and why you’re not alone in your search for relief!   If our episodes have been that ah-ha moment you needed or brought some comfort, we're thrilled to hear all about it! Here's the scoop: drop us a review with your thoughts, and tell us how a particular episode has impacted your health.   And here's where it gets exciting – you could win free access to the Migraine Freedom™ Community Membership!  We’re giving away memberships to our top reviewers: 1st place lands a solid 3 months, 2nd place takes home 2 months, and 3rd place grabs a month of invaluable resources. Want a shot at the prize?  It's simple— leave a review on any podcast platform, take a screenshot  post the review on your favorite social media platform, make sure to tag me.  The more places you review, the better your chances. Need a quick tutorial on posting a review? Check this out for easy instructions: How to Post a Review. Time's of the essence! This flash contest is zooming by, and we’re drawing winners on 3/14/2025 So, let’s get those reviews rolling in.  Remember, the sooner you share, the sooner you might just snag that free membership valued at over $300 a month!! Apple-https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/migraine-freedom-your-way/id1727416680 Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/show/0AG1gpDWJ5zjbuaENPQzyG?si=52989bffabc14db6 Amazon-https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8df232a4-f64e-4633-bb4e-c897aa2f311b/migraine-freedom-your-way   Resources: Join the FREE Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Facebook Group for monthly Q&A calls, migraine resources, and a community of women who understand what you’re going through because they’re on the same path to pain-free living! Join the Migraine Freedom™ Community membership for live support, resources, and tools to help you target the root cause of your migraines, integrate migraine-reduction strategies, and live pain-free in a way that works for your lifestyle.    Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/   Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.  

Have you ever wondered if that spicy taco you regretted eating not only set your throat on fire but also had a hand in your migraine?  The gut and brain are in constant communication via nerves, hormones, and our immune system. Good gut health is essential for overall well-being. When something's off, like stress in the brain or troubles in the gut, this communication can be disrupted.  So, if you've got GERD, it might cause headaches and vice versa.  People with migraines often have more acid reflux than those without, and resolving acid problems can cut down on headaches for many. On this week’s podcast episode, we’re diving into the connection between your angry stomach and your throbbing head.   In this episode, you’ll hear: The connection between your gut health and your brain Why your gut health directly affects your overall well-being Common GERD symptoms – and what’s causing them The side effects of acid reflux medications The underlying cause of GERD and migraines and what you can do to heal them both    If our episodes have been that ah-ha moment you needed or brought some comfort, we're thrilled to hear all about it!   Here's the scoop: drop us a review with your thoughts, and tell us how a particular episode has impacted your health.     And here's where it gets exciting – you could win free access to the Migraine Freedom™ Community Membership!  We’re giving away memberships to our top reviewers: 1st place lands a solid 3 months, 2nd place takes home 2 months, and 3rd place grabs a month of invaluable resources. Want a shot at the prize?  It's simple— leave a review on any podcast platform, take a screenshot  post the review on your favorite social media platform, make sure to tag me.  The more places you review, the better your chances.   Need a quick tutorial on posting a review? Check this out for easy instructions: How to Post a Review. Time's of the essence! This flash contest is zooming by, and we’re drawing winners on 3/14/2025 So, let’s get those reviews rolling in.  Remember, the sooner you share, the sooner you might just snag that free membership valued at over $300 a month!! Apple-https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/migraine-freedom-your-way/id1727416680 Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/show/0AG1gpDWJ5zjbuaENPQzyG?si=52989bffabc14db6 Amazon-https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8df232a4-f64e-4633-bb4e-c897aa2f311b/migraine-freedom-your-way   Resources: Join the Migraine Freedom™ Community membership for live support, resources, and tools to help you manage your insulin resistance, integrate migraine-reduction strategies, and live pain-free in a way that works for your lifestyle.   Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/   Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.  

How often have migraines interfered with your plans?  Have you had to cancel story time with the grandkids? Miss out on a much-needed vacation with friends? Put intimacy with your partner on hold again? Skip a fun night at the movies or a delicious dinner out?  These are just some of the things migraines can steal – the ability to plan ahead, the joy of simple pleasures, and the connection with loved ones. It's not just the intense pain, is it?  It's the lost experiences, the missed opportunities, and the feeling that life is passing you by. It's the constant uncertainty and the fear of the next attack. It's the toll it takes on your relationships, your work, and your overall well-being. In this week’s podcast episode, I’m sharing a simple and effective Mindful Migraine Breakthrough, where I talk more about this issue – confronting the true cost of migraines. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why mindfulness matters if you want to achieve long-term relief. A powerful exercise from our Freedom From Migraines Method® program called "Confronting the Cost” that you can start doing today! My personal experience with migraines and irreplaceable missed moments. What you can do to stop sitting on the sidelines of your life and take control of the pain once and for all.   Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/   Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.   

Do you ever feel like you're walking a tightrope with your diet?  Are you trying to eat healthy, maybe even following a specific "migraine diet," but still struggling with migraines and other nagging symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, or digestive issues?  You're afraid every bite might trigger a pain flare, leaving you confused and frustrated about what to eat. You're not alone. Many people, just like you, are unknowingly making food choices that cause insulin resistance that may be contributing to your chronic health problems. In this week’s podcast episode, we’re diving into what insulin resistance is, the long-term effects of untreated insulin resistance, and what you can do to take control of your nutrition – and your health!   In this episode, you’ll hear: How proper insulin levels keep our body balanced. The scientific process behind insulin resistance – and why it can be detrimental to your health. A proven diet you can follow to keep your insulin levels stable. The hidden symptoms of insulin resistance. What happens if insulin resistance goes untreated. How to manage insulin resistance, maintain healthy insulin levels, and reduce inflammation for fewer migraine days! Resources: Join the Migraine Freedom™ Community membership for live support, resources, and tools to help you manage your insulin resistance, integrate migraine-reduction strategies, and live pain-free in a way that works for your lifestyle.   https://debbiewaidl.com/migraine-freedom-community-membership/info/  Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree   Women’s Migraine Freedom Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom   LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl   Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/ Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources. 

Meet Tammy, a member of our Freedom From Migraines® program.   After suffering with chronic migraines for years, she was diagnosed by her doctor with a brain tumor. But instead of undergoing surgeries and relying on heavy medication, Tammy decided to take an alternative route and joined our program.   Now, Tammy is living her best life free from pain – all thanks to our holistic approach and tailored treatment plan that helped her achieve lasting relief.   In this week’s episode, we share Tammy’s inspirational story about her brain tumor diagnosis, chronic pain, and how the Freedom From Migraines Method® helped get her life back! In this episode, you’ll hear: Why a doctor's diagnosis won’t heal your migraines. Why conventional migraine treatment doesn’t always work. Tammy’s inspirational journey from her painful tumor diagnosis to holistic freedom. What you can do to start living migraine-free today! Resources: My upcoming FREE Challenge, Fast Track to Ending the Hormone Roller Coaster, will help you discover what’s triggering your migraine pain and how to achieve relief with step-by-step support to balance your hormones. In this 3-day event, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to reduce your pain permanently and have an opportunity to receive 1:1 coaching! The work begins February 17th. Click here to save your spot, and I’ll see you inside.   Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree   Women’s Migraine Freedom Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom   LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl   Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/ Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.   

“Every time I get a new medication, it works for a while, then slowly stops working. How do I find a medication that won’t stop working?” This is the burning question Sarah came to us with, and one that we’ve heard time and time again.  On this month’s Q&A podcast episode, we’re dishing out the truth on migraine medication with scientifically-backed answers, and discussing why conventional medicine isn’t always the answer to finding pain relief. If you’re searching for answers to your migraine Q’s, this is for you! In this episode, you’ll hear: Why doctors prescribe migraine medications, and how they work. The problem with using migraine medication to manage your pain. The difference between managing your pain and eliminating it. How the Migraine Buffer™ creates a gap between painful days and pain-free days. A comprehensive answer to Sarah’s question. Resources:  Join our upcoming 4-day challenge, Fast Track to Ending the Hormone Roller Coaster.  Get easy-to-follow action steps to stop your migraines in their tracks without the use of harmful and ineffective medications.  We’re kicking off February 17th @ 6:30pm EST, so be sure to save your seat by clicking here! Check out our self-assessment Migraine Level Guide to find the ideal approach to achieving migraine freedom and determine the support you need to say goodbye to migraines by the end of 2025.   Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/ Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources. 

Are you tired of the relentless search for a magic bullet to end your migraines? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything, only to find temporary relief that never truly lasts?  I understand. For over a decade, I personally battled debilitating migraines, a journey marked by constant searching and fleeting moments of respite.  If this resonates with you, I’m thrilled to share how I can guide you toward lasting migraine freedom through the Migraine Freedom™ Protocol. In today’s episode, I’m discussing and differentiating the three different migraine support levels that we offer so you can identify the best one for you and be well on your way to achieving migraine freedom for good! In this episode, you’ll hear: How I went from chronic suffering to living migraine-free! What The Migraine Freedom™ Protocol is and how it can help you heal your migraines A deep dive into three different support levels: The Women’s Migraine Freedom™ Facebook Group, The Migraine Freedom™ Community Membership, and The Freedom From Migraines Method® Programs PLUS, how to figure out which level is right for you! Resources: Download this free detailed guide for a comprehensive overview of the levels we discuss in this episode! https://migraineresources.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/Migraine+Freedom+Support+Description+Guide.pdf  Connect with Debbie:  Instagram: https://urlgeni.us/instagram/migrainefree Women’s Migraine Freedom Facebook Group: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Womensmigrainefreedom LinkedIn: https://urlgeni.us/linkedin/debbiewaidl Website: https://debbiewaidl.com/ Disclaimer: The Migraine Freedom Your Way Podcast and information provided by Debbie Waidl and guests in this podcast is presented solely to provide helpful information, education, and entertainment on the subjects discussed. The use of information or resources mentioned on or linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk and discretion. This podcast is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician. Debbie Waidl and In The Balance Health Coaching LLC are not responsible for any medical conditions or liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation to any person reading or following the information presented on this podcast. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any websites or other sources.