Nervous System Health - Migraines Flashcards
What are migraines, and how are they characterized?
Migraines are recurrent neurological headaches involving multiple networks in the head. They are often moderate to severe, pulsating or throbbing, and unilateral, lasting less than 72 hours. Migraines may be preceded by symptoms such as tiredness or food cravings.
What are common signs and symptoms of migraines?
Moderate to severe headache (often unilateral).
Nausea and/or vomiting.
Photophobia and phonophobia.
In ⅓ of individuals, aura (e.g., visual zig-zag lines or pins and needles) may occur before or during the headache phase.
What are common causes and risk factors for migraines?
Diet: Food allergies, histamine/tyramine-rich foods (chocolate, wine, cheese), caffeine, aspartame, MSG.
Inflammation: Increased cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α).
Stress: Contributes to chronic inflammation and can trigger migraines.
Hormonal imbalances: Oestrogen fluctuations and oral contraceptive use.
Gut-brain axis issues: Dysbiosis, permeability, and H. pylori.
Nutrient deficiencies: Low magnesium, B2, B3, B12, D, and CoQ10.
Low serotonin: Dysfunctional serotonin-melatonin conversion affects sleep and migraines.
How can diet be optimized to prevent migraines?
Follow the CNM Naturopathic Diet with blood sugar balancing.
Avoid trigger foods like gluten, dairy, peanuts, fermented foods, and histamine/tyramine-rich items.
Increase DAO co-factors (Cu, B2, B6, Vit C).
Incorporate omega-3s (e.g., oily fish, flaxseeds) to reduce migraine frequency.
What supplements support migraine prevention and relief?
Magnesium: 200–400 mg/day (affects serotonin synthesis and NTs).
Vitamin B6: 50–100 mg/day (supports GABA and serotonin, lowers histamine).
5-HTP: 100–200 mg twice daily (supports serotonin and reduces frequency).
Ginger: 400 mg x 3/day or 1-inch fresh ginger infusion (anti-inflammatory, analgesic).
Feverfew: 300 mg/day (reduces frequency and light sensitivity).
What role does inflammation play in migraines, and how can it be addressed?
Inflammation (e.g., raised cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α) sensitizes nerves and contributes to migraines. Anti-inflammatory foods, quercetin (500–3000 mg/day), omega-3s, and ginger can help mitigate inflammation.
What are some natural herbs for migraines, and their benefits?
Feverfew: Reduces frequency, pain, nausea, and vascular spasms. Avoid in pregnancy.
Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and analgesic, increases serotonin.
Ginkgo biloba: Modulates brain transmission and reduces platelet activation.
How does the gut-brain axis (GBA) affect migraines?
Gut dysbiosis and permeability can lead to metabolic endotoxemia, increasing inflammatory mediators. Probiotics like L. rhamnosus, B. infantis, and L. plantarum reduce histamine and support the GBA.
What lifestyle changes can help reduce migraines?
Maintain a migraine diary to identify triggers.
Regular low-intensity exercise (e.g., yoga).
Optimize sleep and melatonin synthesis.
Ensure sufficient hydration.
Support detoxification pathways.
What are the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for migraines?
Omega-3s reduce migraine frequency and increase serum 17-HDHA, an anti-inflammatory derivative. They also modulate inflammation and enhance neuronal health.
