Migraine is a complex neurological condition resulting in intense headaches, auras, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. It can be challenging to treat migraine with usual painkillers. As a result, many individuals explore alternative remedies to support their health naturally. One such option is magnesium, which is widely recognized for its therapeutic properties. It plays a vital role in muscle relaxation, nerve function, and energy production.
Role of Magnesium in the Human Body
Magnesium is a vital mineral in the human body. It plays a pivotal role in over 300 enzyme reactions in the human body. Magnesium plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle and nerve function, regulating blood pressure, and supporting the immune system.
Clinical Evidence Supporting Magnesium:
Various studies have proven:
- Magnesium can prevent headaches.
- Magnesium levels are low during migraine.
- The efficacy of treatment increases with higher doses of migraine medication for a limited time.
- Magnesium is more effective for people who have auras or visual disturbances.
Different Forms of Magnesium
- Magnesium Oxide: It is available in pill form. It has higher levels of magnesium. Based on your condition, your doctor may prescribe a specific dose of approximately 400-600 mg per day. It is safe to use during pregnancy
- Magnesium sulfate: It is in an inorganic form, and the body absorbs a small amount of it.
- Magnesium carbonate: It has a higher level of magnesium. However, it is more likely to cause diarrhoea or an upset stomach.
- Magnesium chloride: It is easily absorbed into the body.
- Magnesium citrate: The body can absorb large amounts. It can induce bowel movement.
Role of Magnesium in Migraine Relief
- Regulates Neurotransmitters
Magnesium regulates neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that controls your mood and is also known as the “feel-good” chemical. It also helps maintain your sleep cycle and regulate pain. It decreases or blocks the pain-transmitting chemicals in the brain, such as substance P and glutamate. It also narrows the blood vessels in the brain. Thus, it helps reduce the likelihood and severity of migraine attacks.
- Prevents Cortical Spreading Depression
There is substantial evidence that magnesium is highly adequate in patients who have or have auras. Magnesium prevents the cortical spreading of depression (CSD), which is a wave of abnormal brain activity that causes aura symptoms and triggers pain in the brain. In simpler terms, magnesium reduces the frequency of these abnormal brain waves, resulting in a lower frequency of migraine and its severity.
- Reduces Inflammation
Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, it reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Relaxes Blood Vessels
Constriction or sudden dilation of blood vessels is an essential trigger for migraine. Magnesium helps relax the blood vessels, improving blood flow and thus reducing the vascular changes that can cause migraines.
Magnesium in Food
In addition to supplements, you can also get magnesium through diet:
- Whole wheat.
- Spinach, Swiss chard, Kale, Collard greens, Beet greens, Broccoli, Edamame, avocado]
- Almonds, cashews, and peanuts
- Chia seeds, flax seeds, and pumpkin seeds
- Dark chocolate.
- Black beans, quinoa, and whole wheat
- Bananas
Side Effects of Magnesium
Too much magnesium intake can cause side effects:
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Low blood pressure
- Memory issues
- Diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea.
Patients with acute kidney disease must consult their doctors before taking any magnesium supplement or following a magnesium-rich diet.
Magnesium is a great natural option for migraine relief. However, it may be effective in some patients but not in others. With its effectiveness in regulating brain chemicals, relaxing blood vessels, and reducing inflammation, it is highly recommended and valuable in managing migraines. It is essential to take magnesium under medical supervision, as advised by your consultant, for optimal results. This emphasis on medical guidance ensures that you are well-informed and secure in your use of magnesium for migraine relief.
