Migraine headaches cause severe and debilitating pain and can last for several days. The pain appears to result from inflammation of blood vessels in the brain. Two vitamins have been scientifically indicated to prevent or reduce symptoms of migraines: riboflavin (vitamin B2) and folic acid (vitamin B9).
Reducing Frequency
A study published in 2004 in the European Journal of Neurology found participants had fewer migraines while taking vitamin B2 supplements. The average frequency of these headaches decreased from four to two per month during the study.
Reducing Duration
The length of time migraines lasted also decreased during the study.
Reducing Need for Pain Relievers
In addition, participants used significantly fewer pain killers while taking the B2 supplements.
Supplement Amount
Supplementation consisted of 400 milligrams of B2 each day for 3 months.
Reducing Excess Amino Acid
Researchers in Australia and New Zealand in 2004 studied people who get migraines with auras, the most severe kind. These people can have a genetic mutation creating higher levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which in turn causes migraines. Folic acid supplements can reduce homocysteine levels.
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