The most distinctive and prevalent type of headache is a migraine headache. If you or someone you love experiences migraine headaches, then this article is for you. Here, we take a brief look at the details of migraine headaches. Then, we examine three of the most research-backed and favored supplements which could be of help.
What Is a Migraine?
A migraine is a pronounced, throbbing headache which usually centers on one side of the head. It can last for hours and even days. This makes migraine headaches, when they occur, a significant source of pain and an impediment to daily life. Migraine headaches are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound in the surrounding environment.
Migraines are a very common health concern, affecting about 12% of the general population in the U.S. The causes of migraine headaches aren’t always obvious. Genetics, environmental factors, and neurological factors can all contribute. A migraine headache can be immediately precipitated by certain triggers. These can include alcohol and/or caffeine, stress, physical strain, sleep disturbances, hormonal changes (often related to estrogen), certain food ingredients and/or medicines, and environmental stimuli.
Migraine headaches merit medical treatment. Medication is often prescribed to treat a pattern of migraine headaches. Pertinent avenues of medicinal treatment are pain relief and the prevention of migraines. A range of home lifestyle patterns can help prevent them, too. These include maintaining sound sleep, relaxation techniques, hydration, regular exercise, and routine mealtimes.
Three Supplements Suitable for Dealing with Migraine
Some dietary supplements have properties which can mitigate migraine headaches. Many products have been touted for this purpose. Here are three of the most researched and favored supplements for mitigating migraines.
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is one of the most recommended supplements for migraines. Studies show that high doses of vitamin B2 taken daily for at least three months is effective for the mitigation of migraines. Doing so could potentially reduce both the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Among other physiological benefits, magnesium helps supply energy to cells in the brain. This is helpful, because this flow of energy can be disrupted in the course of migraine headaches.
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for the human body. It is also one of the most effectively studied and verified substances for managing a pattern of recurring migraines. Scientists believe magnesium helps because it prevents the excessive activation of cells in the brain, and it reduces pro-inflammatory signaling that could lead to a migraine. Multiple studies support increasing your intake of magnesium in order to reduce the likelihood of a migraine. Magnesium oxide is a common form of this magnesium available in supplement form, and studies show that it is effective for preventing migraine.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant compound; research suggests that its antioxidant effects can reduce oxidative stress that is associated with migraines. CoQ10 could also reduce the levels of enzymes which are produced during a migraine, and which can cause nerve inflammation. One analysis of multiple studies concluded that regular CoQ10 supplementation could reduce the frequency and duration of migraine headaches. CoQ10 could also be more effective when combined with magnesium, or other supplements known to be effective for migraines.
If you or someone you love experiences migraines, you should not allow them to go on without a well-rounded approach to mitigating them. It is always recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before trying any supplement to treat and mitigate migraines.