Migraines affect millions of people worldwide with debilitating symptoms that interfere with their daily activities. These headaches cause a pulsating pain on one or both sides of your head that can last for a few hours or a few days. The pain may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. While some people find relief from prescription medication and staying hydrated with migraines and headaches, others are looking for natural ways to manage their migraine symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top supplements recommended by naturopathic doctors to alleviate migraine headaches.
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy production and antioxidant defense. It’s been shown to reduce the frequency and duration of migraine headaches by improving the energy metabolism in brain cells. Foods rich in riboflavin include milk, cheese, eggs, and leafy green vegetables. Try incorporating these foods into your diet to help with migraines.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that regulates nerve function, muscle relaxation, and blood pressure. It’s also been found to reduce migraine headaches in some people, particularly those with low magnesium levels. Magnesium-rich foods include dark chocolate, nuts, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables.
Feverfew
Feverfew is a medicinal herb that’s been traditionally used to treat fever, inflammation, and menstrual cramps. It’s also been found to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines by inhibiting the release of inflammatory substances in the brain. However, long-term use of feverfew may cause side effects such as nausea, mouth ulcers, and allergic reactions.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in energy production and cell protection. It’s been found to reduce the occurrence of migraines by improving the mitochondrial function in brain cells. CoQ10 is naturally found in oily fish such as salmon and sardines, as well as in nuts, seeds, and soybeans.
Butterbur
Butterbur is a medicinal herb that’s been used for centuries to treat coughs, asthma, and allergies. It’s also been found to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines by inhibiting blood vessel inflammation and spasms. However, long-term use of butterbur may cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and liver damage.
Migraines can be a debilitating condition that affects your quality of life, but there are supplements that can help alleviate the symptoms. Riboflavin, magnesium, feverfew, CoQ10, and butterbur are some of the natural supplements that have been found to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines in some people. However, it’s important to talk to your naturopathic doctor provider before taking any supplements, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication for other conditions. A naturopathic doctor can help you determine the right supplements for your specific needs, the foods to avoid with migraines, and recommend a personalized plan to manage your migraines.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Kaitlyn Zorn, BSc (Hons), ND, or another Kitchener Naturopath at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
