Migraines and Your Diet

It seems diet affects most of our ailments. The latest study confirms that what you eat can affect the intensity and duration of a migraine headache. The study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, looked at dietary patterns in women with migraines.

This particular study, conducted by researchers at the Department of Nutrition of the Islamic Azad University in Tehran, Iran, focused on the impact of dietary patterns on migraines rather than on individual foods. The study examined 266 women in Iran, ages 18 to 50, with body mass indexes between 18.5 and 30 (normal to overweight). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess physical activity and dietary intake was assessed via the food frequency questionnaire. In addition, Nutritionist-IV software was used to analyze data for protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. To assess migraine intensity, researchers used the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Participants were classified into three categories based on dietary patterns.

The first pattern included foods with:

• Calcium
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B2
• Magnesium

The second pattern included foods with:

• Vitamin B1
• Carbohydrates
• Vitamin B3
• Vitamin B9
• Protein
• Total fiber

The third only included vitamin D and vitamin B12.

Researchers found that the second dietary pattern resulted in the lowest migraine intensity on the VAS and the shortest pain duration. The first nutritional pattern also resulted in lower migraine intensity.

Researchers also found that migraines were shorter in duration with both the second and third patterns.

The bottom line is what you eat and the nutrients provided by your food matter, even for migraine headaches. If you suffer from migraines, be sure to get plenty of protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and foods high in B vitamins such as whole grains to lessen the length of a migraine. To lessen the severity, add foods high in vitamins C, K, A, calcium, and magnesium.

Q and A

Q: Are there some simple things I can do to help control diabetes?

A: The American Diabetes Association recommends choosing foods high in fiber, which can help you feel more satiated for a longer period with fewer calories and without increasing your blood sugar. And think small. Choosing smaller, more reasonable portions on a smaller plate can make a big difference. Ask yourself if you’re really hungry or simply thirsty. Try a glass of water before you reach for that cookie. You want to choose foods that are lower in both fat and sugar. Another important habit is to add more activity. The more you move, the better you will feel and the lower your blood sugar readings will be!

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Get weekly tips on housing, retirement living, senior care, and more sent right to your inbox.