Home Blog Migraine Headaches and Nutrition Approaches Reviewed By Dr. Timothy Harcourt

Migraine Headaches and Nutrition Approaches Reviewed By Dr. Timothy Harcourt

Jun 11, 2021 -- Posted by : Dr.Harcourt
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People with migraines know all too well about that throbbing, pulsating, and nauseated feeling that accompanies their headaches and the associated disability that often results. The underlying cause of migraine headaches is still not well understood, but genetics (family history), chemical imbalances in the brain (serotonin, in particular), environmental factors (weather, allergens), and hormonal changes appear to play a part. Because medications to manage headaches can come with potentially serious side effects, especially with prolonged use, many patients opt for non-pharmaceutical treatment approaches to reduce the frequency and intensity of their migraines…

A 2018 survey of 4,356 American adults with a history of migraines found that common symptoms associated with migraines include sensitivity to touch (32%), food cravings (28%), and hallucinations (18%), which include sound and smell. The most common foods to trigger a migraine were chocolate at 75%, cheese (especially aged cheeses) at 48%, citrus fruit at 30%, and alcohol (especially red wine) at 25%. Other foods that may be triggers include cured meats, monosodium glutamate (MSG), aspartame (and other artificial sweeteners), snack foods, fatty foods, dairy products, food dyes, coffee, tea, cola, and nuts.

According to a 2019 study, people who suffer from migraines are often deficient in magnesium (Mg), a mineral naturally found in spinach, nuts, and whole grains. Magnesium is also important in regulating blood pressure, blood sugar (glucose), and muscle and nerve function. A meta-review of previous study findings revealed that migraine patients who received an Mg supplement reported reductions in both headache frequency and intensity. Other benefits included a decrease in hospitalization during pregnancy, and at a higher dose, a lower incidence of type-2 diabetes and stroke!

Another nutritional anti-migraine option includes the use of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) for both prevention and treatment of migraine headaches. Other benefits of feverfew include fever reduction, irregular menstrual cycles, arthritis, psoriasis, allergies, asthma, tinnitus, dizziness, and nausea/vomiting. There is also research support for the use of riboflavin (vitamin B-2), melatonin and coenzyme Q10 by migraine patients.

Doctors of chiropractic often manage their migraine headache patients using a multi-modal approach that includes cervical spinal manipulation and mobilization, physical therapy modalities, home exercise training, nutritional counseling (including supplementation advice), and other conservative treatment approaches based on the patient’s specific needs.

So, if you are experiencing headaches and type in chiropractor near me or pain management near me, you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up.  You may wonder, “Do I need an MRI scan of my brain or neck.”  Also, if you feel arm pain it may indicate things are getting worse and may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your neck.  Some people have a feeling of their “head aching.” What type of headache is it to include: tension headaches, cluster headaches, migraine headaches, sinus headaches, or toxic headaches?  Regardless of the type, it can leave you feeling exhausted fatigued, nauseous, and even depressed. Some get severe pain behind the eyes.  Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional.  Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 and mention this article for an awesome discounted first visit to include history, exam, and adjustment or Class IV high-intensity laser treatment.

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