Migraines are chronic headaches that cause significant pain for hours or even days. They are caused by changes in the trigeminal nerve and imbalances in neurotransmitters including 5HT3 which releases neuropeptides that trigger vasodilation in the cranial blood vessels. Treatment includes avoiding triggers, over-the-counter medications, prescriptions medications, and lifestyle change (foods and natural products).
Common Migraine Triggers
1) Hormonal Changes in women (i.e. menstruation)
2) Stress
3) Foods (i.e.salty foods, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine overuse)
4) Sensory stimuli (i.e. bright lights, loud sounds/music, scents)
5) Changes in wake-sleep pattern (i.e. not getting enough sleep)
6) Changes in the environment (i.e. weather changes, and barometric pressure)
Medications:
1) Over-the-counter medications (i.e. Ibuprofen or Advil, and Excedrin Migraine)
2) Triptans (i.e. Sumatriptan, Rizatriptan, Zolmitriptan)
Essential Mineral/Vitamin:
1) Magnesium ( i.e. Normal Range Men: 400-420mg; Women: 310-320mg)
2) Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): No range, water-soluble vitamin that is excreted from the body so no overdose
Foods Rich in Magnesium:Almonds, Banana, Avocado, Dark Chocolate (~80%), Spinach, Pumpkin Seeds, Peanut Butter, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Potato, Broccoli, Apple, Kale, Ginger, Carrot, Coconut Water, Beans, Cinnamon
Foods Rich in Vitamin B2: Avocados, Eggs, Fish, Mushrooms, Tofu, Pumpkin Seeds, Spinach, Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Squash, Broccoli, Raspberries, Tomato, Asparagus
Medicinal Plants: Feverfew, Willow Bark, Butterbur
**This content is strictly the opinion of Dr. Eilbra Younan, and all viewers of this content are advised to consult with their doctors regarding specific health questions, especially those taking prescriptions and/or over-the-counter(OTC) medications before starting this or any nutrition or lifestyle change. This content is for information and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide medical advice or take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal doctor. Neither Dr. Eilbra Younan and/or the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health side-effects/consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content.
