Finding Your Migraine Triggers: Food & Elimination Diet

When you have migraines, knowing your triggers can mean the difference between avoiding a headache or getting one. Even though science is still not sure about what exactly causes migraines, experts know that everyday things like foods, drinks, sounds, smells, and medications can trigger one.

That’s why when people are first diagnosed with migraines, they are advised to keep a diary to record details of their daily activities. Trigger trackers help many migraine sufferers reduce the frequency of their attacks by helping them identify and eliminate potential migraine-inducing factors from their everyday lives.

Every migraineur has different triggers. For example, caffeine can be very polarizing among migraine sufferers: studies have shown that caffeine can be both a headache trigger and an inhibitor, so its effects vary depending on the person taking it. Another example is sleep; some people report getting a migraine after sleeping too little and others after sleeping too much.

But while some triggers are less common than others, different types of food remain at the top of many migraineurs list. If you think certain foods might be triggering your migraines, an elimination diet can help you get a clearer picture. Here’s how to do one.

Identifying Your Food Triggers

Contrary to popular belief, migraine food triggers aren’t always unhealthy, greasy, or sugary foods. Typical things you might frequently eat like citrus fruits, aged cheese, dark chocolate, eggs, apples, and onions have been known to trigger migraines. Still, since everybody responds differently to the substances they consume, the best way to identify the culprits of your recurring headaches is with an elimination diet.

What Is An Elimination Diet

Despite being called a ‘diet,’ elimination diets have nothing to do with weight loss. An elimination diet is the act of removing different food items or groups for a determined amount of time and then slowly reintroducing them to see how the body responds.

In addition to migraines, another reason why people might do an elimination diet is to look for sensitivities. In fact, elimination diets are the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies or intolerances like celiac disease and lactose intolerance.

Elimination diets are divided into two phases: elimination and reintroduction.

Elimination Phase

The aim of the elimination phase is to remove foods you think might be triggering your migraines. This phase should last at least three months, and the goal is to determine if your migraines have changed – e.g., they’ve become less frequent or intense – or if your symptoms remain the same or have worsened.

If you think certain foods might be triggering your migraines, but you don’t where to start, consider cutting out the most common culprits first, including:

Canned, cured, and processed meats
Alcohol and vinegar
Oranges, apples, and bananas
Chocolate
All dairy products
Artificial sweeteners
Soy products
Eggs
MSG
Wheat
Nuts (including peanuts)

The University of Wisconsin has a comprehensive list of potential headache food triggers as well as migraine-safe alternatives to those foods. Read the list here.

If you know for sure that some of these foods aren’t triggers for you, there’s no need to eliminate them. It is important to point out, however, that you should replace any potentially triggering ingredients with healthy foods that are going to provide you with the vitamins and nutrients that your body needs.

During the elimination phase, it’s essential that you keep a trigger tracker. Cutting out possible food triggers doesn’t guarantee that you are not going to get migraines, but it will make it easier to pinpoint other potential triggers like lifestyle habits, medications, sleep changes, etc. if you do get one.

Keep a migraine diary and make sure to record every migraine attack, including its severity and duration, as well as any noteworthy information like your sleep quality, your stress levels, the weather, and any significant activities you may have done during the day.

MigreLief Original contains key nutrients such as magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and feverfew, known for their potential health benefits. Consider incorporating it into your wellness routine for overall support.

Reintroduction Phase

The idea behind an elimination diet is to find how which foods might be causing your migraines, not to permanently expunge every potential trigger without figuring out how they affect your headaches. That is why during the second phase of your elimination diet, you are going to slowly reintroduce the foods that you eliminated, one by one.

Some experts recommend starting with the food or food group that you think is less likely to trigger a migraine. If, for example, you believe bananas might be safe to eat, try eating one banana a day for two or three days and see how you feel, but don’t overdo it.

It is important to wait at least two days before you reintroduce more food groups. Research suggests that sometimes, prodromal symptoms can precede the headache part of a migraine by up to three days, so don’t rule out a food item just because it didn’t trigger a migraine immediately.

A Word of Caution

Remember to eat enough food and drink plenty of water during your elimination diet. Extreme hunger and dehydration are known migraine triggers and can cause other health issues as well. Always consult your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have diabetes, are taking medications, or have a serious health condition.

Elimination diets are not foolproof, and while research studies have shown significant improvements both in the frequency and duration of attacks for people who have been able to identify their food triggers, not every migraine is caused by food.

The road to finding relief from migraines is not always a straight one, and not knowing what causes them can be extremely frustrating. Nevertheless, a combination of identifying – and avoiding – your triggers, while implementing a preventive strategy is key.

What Are Essential Oils and Why is Everybody Using Them?

Over the past few years, essential oils have taken the alternative medicine market by storm. Available at pharmacies, grocery stores, yoga studios, and everything in between – these little vials of concentrated aromas have hundreds of thousands of people sniffing their way into wellness and relaxation.

But contrary to popular belief, essential oils are not a recent discovery. Humans have used distilled botanicals for a variety of purposes for thousands of years. In fact, the history of essential oils dates as far back as 5,000 years to Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians used essential oils for a variety of purposes that ranged from embalming mummies to cosmetic and healing practices. The modern term “aromatherapy” was used for the first time in the early 1900s by Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a French cosmetic chemist known for his essential oil research. Nowadays, we know that botanical oils can help treat skin conditions, inflammation, stress, and much more.

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated botanical extracts. To make them, the most aromatic part – which varies depending on the type of plant – is extracted through pressing or steaming mechanisms. Often, it takes several pounds of a single plant to make one essential oil bottle, which means that these liquids are incredibly potent.

People often use essential oils in one of two ways: inhaled or applied to the skin topically. Because oils release scent molecules, they travel through the nose to the brain, triggering emotional responses from the amygdala. Depending on the plant, diluted essential oils may help reduce inflammation, promote overall comfort, and help with relaxation.

What Are the Benefits of Essential Oils?

Because these concentrated plant extracts are rich in chemical compounds, many essential oils can serve different purposes. Here are three proven benefits of essential oils:

Improved Mood

When you inhale an essential oil, thousands of microscopic scent molecules dispersed around the air enter your nose and travel directly to your brain. Once in the brain, they reach the amygdala – an almond-shaped collection of neurons tucked deep inside the temporal lobe.

The amygdala is known as the emotional processing center of the body. It plays a vital role in our emotional perception, stimuli reaction, and more. Because we tie pleasant smells with positive emotions, when essential oils stimulate the amygdala, our mood tends to improve, and we experience more positive emotions.

Oils that have been observed to be particularly useful at improving mood and boosting energy include:

Eucalyptus
Ginger root
Grapefruit
Lemon
Thyme
Wild orange

Sleep and Relaxation

Because smell is so closely related to the way that we feel, inhaling soothing scents can facilitate restful sleep. Though there are numerous sleep-inducing oils, several studies point at lavender oil as the most beneficial essential oil for sleep. For example, one study found that lavender oil lengthened REM sleep while another one showed that lavender oil could also help manage anxiety.

Other essential oils that help fall asleep and reduce stress:

Chamomile
Rose
Geranium
Sandalwood
Frankincense
Clary sage
Valerian
Bergamot

Boosting Immunity

Essential oils can be a helpful immunity booster and protect against viruses, especially during seasonal threats. Most essential oils are antiseptic, which means that they can help protect against disease-causing microorganisms to some degree, and others are even antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. For example, garlic essential oil can fight off viruses and bacteria, and eucalyptus oil is a natural alternative for colds and congestion. Below are a couple simple blends:

Immunity Blend #1

4 drops Lavender
2 drops Eucalyptus
1 drop Tea Tree

Immunity Blend #2

2 drops Lavender
2 drops Lemon
2 drops Eucalyptus
1 drop Oregano

This is another effective blend for immune system support that includes oregano for its strong immune system stimulating properties. Oregano is a strong fragrance, so you may want to adjust the amount of oregano used to your liking. If you find that the scent is too strong, I suggest adding additional drops of lavender and lemon.

How to Use Essential Oils for Immune System Support

There are several effective methods for incorporating these essential oil blends into your immunity support regimen. A powered diffuser is often the first choice.

Best Essential Oils for Migraine Sufferers

Many people who have migraines or frequent headaches look for an alternative, drug-free treatments to manage their symptoms to avoid side effects such as rebound headaches or stomach problems. Fortunately, nutritional supplements, yoga, mindfulness, and essential oils are fantastic drug-free alternatives.

The best way to use essential oils for migraines and headaches is by applying them to the skin, particularly around the temples, forehead or neck. When you apply essential oils to the skin, you get the benefits from both inhalation and topical relief.

A word of caution when applying essential oils to the skin: these extracts are extremely concentrated and potent, so a little goes a long way. On average, essential oils are up to 70 times stronger than dried herbs – for example, a single drop of peppermint oil is equivalent to 28 cups of peppermint tea (which is a physician-recommended natural remedy for migraines)! Applied on their own, essential oils can trigger allergic reactions or irritate the skin.

The safest options to address migraines and headaches with essential oils are either diluting oils in a base (a plant or vegetable-based oil that helps carry the substance) or purchasing a pre-made migraine stick or roll-on. Essential oil migraine roll-ons are convenient and effective because they come with a mixture of the most effective essential oils for headaches, and are already diluted in a safe, non-irritating base oil.

Peppermint

Peppermint has been used for thousands of years as an alternative remedy for numerous ailments, including gastrointestinal issues and headaches. Studies have shown that menthol, the main organic compound found in mint, can relieve tension and provide a temporary cooling sensation that soothes pain.

A research study that analyzed more than 140 headache attacks found that patients that applied peppermint essential oil on their foreheads and took a pain reliever reduced their pain significantly faster than those who didn’t use peppermint.

Another study showed that in comparison to a placebo, those who applied a topical solution of peppermint oil were able to stay pain-free longer, reduce their pain faster, and were more successful at relieving nausea and vomiting.

Lavender

If there is a holy grail for essential oils, it has to be lavender. This versatile essential oil is derived from the plant Lavandula angustifolia, through the distillation (steaming) process. Typically, lavender oil is used for stress and anxiety, pain relief, and for sleeping.

Studies looking at the treatment of migraines with lavender essential oils have shown promising results. In a 2012 placebo-controlled clinical trial, researchers found that those who inhaled lavender oil for 15 minutes reported fewer migraine attacks than those who sniffed a placebo substance.

Similarly, recent a randomized-controlled trial followed migraine sufferers for three months and divided them into two groups: one used lavender oil, and the other group was given a placebo. Their results showed that after three months, the participants who were asked to inhale lavender oil had fewer migraines than the control group.

Spearmint

Also part of the Lamiaceae (mint) family, spearmint is a perennial plant commonly used as a flavoring agent in candy, chewing gum, and toothpaste. Spearmint has many health benefits that range from soothing an upset stomach to killing some strains of oral bacteria.

Spearmint essential oil might help people with migraines because it can reduce stress and improve sleep – both known migraine triggers. Women who suffer hormonal-related headaches or migraines may also benefit from using spearmint essential oils. One research study revealed that just by taking two cups of spearmint tea per day, participants were able to improve their hormonal imbalances.

Rosemary

Rosemary is not just another herb you add to your chicken or your steak; it also is a popular natural medicine for indigestion problems like IBS and heartburn. When inhaled or applied to the skin rosemary essential oil can reduce pain, ease muscle tension, increase alertness, and support brain activity. Studies have also demonstrated that rosemary helps improve mood, reduce stress, and boost memory.

Akeso Health Sciences now offers a MIGRAINE STICK for migraine and headache sufferers containing 100% organic essential oils.

2 WAYS TO USE:

Keep your MigreLief Migraine Stick with you at all times, in your purse, briefcase, or backpack to roll on calming comfort.

SOOTHE & EASE: Use “as-needed” for immediate, on the spot neurological comfort and stress relief
INVIGORATE: Use throughout the day to feel refreshed and relaxed while inviting the pep back in your step. Great before a workout or while studying.

HOW TO USE: Shake gently. Using the roll-on applicator, apply a small amount to the temples and forehead using a circular motion, avoiding the eyes. May also be applied to the back of the neck or shoulders for extra cooling and relaxation of muscle tension. For additional aromatherapy benefits, hold roller top one inch beneath nose and breathe deeply for several minutes.

BENEFITS AT A GLANCE
Promotes:

Neurological comfort and ease
Overall feelings of well-being
Calm and relaxation
Rejuvenated senses
Refreshed & invigorated mind and body
Stress relief
Eases muscle tension

OTHER KEY FEATURES

USDA 100% Organic
Easy to apply roll-on stick, (temples, forehead, back of neck)
Perfect for everyday use. Keep one in your home, at work and in your car.
Convenient sized bottle, ideal for travel and ready to go
Dark amber bottle protects oils
GMO-free
No animal testing

More information or to purchase… MigreLief Migraine Stick

Does MigreLief have any side effects?

Menstrual Migraines Last Longer, More Severe & Resistant

MENSTRUAL MIGRAINES CAN BECOME CHRONIC MIGRAINES

Menstrual migraines that occur only monthly can progress into chronic migraines. Researchers are discovering that migraines beget migraines, the more you have the more you will tend to get. They are not sure why but suspect the brain goes into a state of hypersensitivity, making prevention- key.

Menstrual migraines are fueled by the drop in estrogen levels just prior to menstruation. True “Menstrual Migraines” occur at the time of menstruation. “Menstrually Related Migraines” occur throughout the menstrual cycle. Menstrual migraines are now considered a separate disorder from other types of migraine.

Menstrual migraines are difficult to control. Approximately 1 in 7 adults have migraines, but women are three times more likely to be affected than men and 60% to 70% report a menstrual relationship to their migraine attacks. Menstrual related migraine attacks are often more severe, last significantly longer, and are more resistant to treatment than the usual non-menstrual migraine attacks.

According to a study published in the medical journal, Cephalalgia:

On average, a menstrual migraine lasted 23.4 hours vs 16.1 hours for non-menstrual migraines.
Menstrual migraines cause more disability and inability to function in daily tasks than non-menstrual migraines
Medications to treat the pain of migraines were 50% less effective when used to treat menstrual migraines.
Even when the pain medication did work, the risk of the menstrual migraine reoccurring was much more likely.

The authors of the study concluded by saying – “Menstrual migraines may require a treatment approach different from that of non-menstrual migraines.”

Other literature indicates only 13.5% of sufferers are pain-free after 2 hours compared to 32.9% of non-menstrual migraine attacks. This indicates that 86.5% of menstrual migraine sufferers and 67.1% of non-menstrual migraine sufferers do not achieve complete relief from debilitating migraine pain after 2 hours.

The “Terrible Twosome” of Hormonal Fluctuations and Insulin Resistance Can Wreak Havoc on a Woman’s Over-All Health and Cause Symptoms of PMS, PCOS and Menstrual Migraines

Insulin resistance is the body’s inability to respond well to insulin, which controls blood sugar levels and can lead to Type II diabetes, abdominal weight gain and migraines. High insulin levels due to insulin resistance increase the production of the male hormone, testosterone. High testosterone levels cause symptoms such as body hair growth, acne, irregular periods and weight gain (all of these are PCOS symptoms).

There is a Direct Relationship between Hormones and Migraines

Headaches in women, particularly migraines, have been related to changes in the levels of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone before, during and after a woman’s menstrual cycle. Estrogen, progesterone and even testosterone levels can fluctuate significantly a few days before and after menstruation leading to migraines and causing symptoms of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) such as:

PMS Symptoms:

Menstrual migraines
Anxiety
Overeating
Breast Swelling
Weight Gain
Bloating
Irritability & Mood Swings
Abdominal and Pelvic Cramps
Fatigue
Headaches
Changes in Libido
Depression
Insomnia
Acne
Hives

PCOS Symptoms:

Hair loss: similar to male pattern baldness
Obesity and inability to lose weight
Acne

Menopause and Migraines

Migraine headaches can severely affect women undergoing the changes of menopause. Statistics indicate that migraines in women tend to increase during the approach to menopause and during menopause; however, they tend to decrease or go away after menopause. It is also known that some women who have never had migraines develop them as they enter the period before (pre and peri-menopause) and during menopause.

Nutritional Support for Women with Hormonal Migraines

Key nutritional supplements have been proven beneficial for migraines sufferers. A great, drug free option for women suffering menstrual/hormonal migraines is Akeso Health Science’s MigreLief+M.

In addition to the 3 popular ‘Triple Therapy” ingredients in Original MigreLief, MigreLief+M contains 5 additional ingredients that have been shown to not only balance blood sugar swings and the hormonal fluctuations that lead to menstrual migraines, but to also significantly decrease PMS and PCOS symptoms.

Ingredients: (2 caplets contain)

Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2, 400 mg/day)*

Puracol Feverfew (100 mg/day)*

Magnesium (citrate/oxide, 360mg/day)*

Chasteberry extract (175 mg/day)

L-Theanine (100 mg/day)

D-Biotin (15 mg/day)

Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (vitamin B-6, 100 mg/day)

Chromium Picolinate (1,000 mcg/day)

*Riboflavin, feverfew and magnesium are listed in the American Academy of Neurology’s Guidelines for Migraine Prevention (Detailed Ingredients Description)

MigreLief Making a Difference for Over 2 Decades

The “MigreLief Nutritional Regimen for Menstrual Migraine Sufferers” consists of taking MigreLief+M daily and fast-acting MigreLief-NOW “as-needed.” Until MigreLief+M, no one product was available to address both hormonal and blood sugar fluctuation, migraines and other symptoms associated with a woman’s hormones or menstrual cycle.

If unsure about migraine triggers, keep a MIGRAINE DIARY / TRIGGER TRACKER to determine the presence of menstrual migraines and note occurrence in relation to menstrual cycle , severity, and response to usual treatment.

MigreLief supplements have been changing the lives of migraine sufferers for over 2 decades. All MigreLief supplement were formulated by scientist Curt Hendrix. Curt holds advanced degrees in chemistry and clinical nutrition, and has dedicated his life to the research and development of innovative natural medicines. Curt’s research in the field of neurological disorders has resulted in grants from the US government’s National Institutes of Health where he was the principal scientific investigator for studying natural compounds for Alzheimer’s disease.

Learn more about MigreLief+M!

Migraines and Hormones – Is There a Connection?

If you are reading this, you or someone you know probably struggles with migraine disorder. In fact, migraines are so prevalent that they affect nearly 40 million people in the United States and 1 billion worldwide – that’s an astonishing 14% of the entire world’s population! But even though migraines don’t discriminate when it comes to age, race, or social status, there is a clear gender divide among migraineurs. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, 85 percent of all chronic migraine sufferers are women, and females also report having longer and more severe attacks than their male counterparts.

But why are women three times more likely to experience migraine and most types of headaches for that matter – than men? In an interview with the Washington Post, Janine Clayton, director of the Office of Research on Women’s Health at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), explains that “we don’t have the answer for why migraines are more common in women than men, but women are more susceptible to every pain condition than men.”

Many factors could explain why migraines are disproportionally more prevalent among women than men, but the most likely answer points towards hormones. Women go through a multitude of hormonal changes throughout their lives, which not only impact their sexual development and reproductive capacities but also play an essential role in how their brain develops and responds to pain.

Migraines can start as early as 18 months of age, and before puberty, boys are more likely to get them than girls. As adolescence approaches, however, this trend shifts drastically; by the age of 17, only 8 percent of boys report experiencing at least one migraine in contrast to 23 percent of girls who had suffered at least one as well. Symptoms, triggers, and severity continue to evolve with age, but migraine incidence usually starts dwindling down after the age of 40 or near the onset of menopause.

In a 2018 study published by the journal Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, researchers were able to identify changes in estrogen levels as a determining factor for making certain nerves in the brain more sensitive to migraine triggers. However, the authors also pointed out that the relationship between hormones and migraines is very complex, and more research is needed to establish a definite connection.

Hormonal changes are a common occurrence among women. Hormone levels fluctuate before, during, and after a woman’s menstrual cycle as well as during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. But medications, environmental factors, stress, and even certain types of foods can also impact estrogen levels.

Estrogen is one of the two main sex hormones in the female body. Together with progesterone, estrogen is responsible for giving women their characteristic female features, controlling sexual and reproductive development, and running the menstrual cycle. Yet hormone levels rarely stay the same; during the average woman’s menstrual cycle, estrogen levels rise and fall, with peak levels occurring during ovulation and then falling again before and over the course of her period.

Menstrual migraines occur only in women, and they happen exclusively during their period. According to the American Migraine Foundation, for a woman to be diagnosed with these types of migraines, she must experience at least one attack during menstruation and have them in at least two out of every three menstrual cycles. Menstrual migraines don’t occur at other times during the month. However, women can get both menstrual and non-menstrual migraines.

Doctors believe that the drastic decrease in estrogen levels after ovulation makes some women more prone to getting migraines. In a research study published in the scientific journal Neurology in 2006, MacGregor and colleagues observed that among most women with menstrual migraines, attacks occurred during the first day of their period – which is when estrogen levels are at their lowest. However, migraine incidence was significantly lower during times of higher estrogen levels, supporting the theory of estrogen “withdrawal” as a common migraine trigger among women.

Does Birth Control Prevent Menstrual Migraines?

Menstrual migraines affect about 60 percent of women with migraines, but they seem to stop or significantly decrease throughout pregnancy and after menopause. In fact, one research study found that 80 percent of participants suffering from migraines reported zero migraine attacks during their third trimester of pregnancy.

The use of oral contraception as a menstrual migraine treatment has always yielded a mixed bag of results; some women have been successful in treating their menstrual migraines with prescription birth control, while others report increased or worsening symptoms. It is important to note, however, that oral contraceptives may elevate some women’s risk of suffering from a stroke or a cardiovascular event. Additionally, women who suffer from migraines with aura also seem to be more at risk of developing blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) while taking hormonal contraceptives.

Fortunately, studies have shown that women who suffer from menstrual migraines can benefit from nutritional supplements like:

Magnesium 360 mg/day
Riboflavin (Vit B-2) 400 mg/day
Feverfew 100 mg/day

PLUS Hormone and Blood Sugar Modulators

Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (vitamin B-6) 100 mg/day
Chromium Picolinate
Vitamin B6 1,000 mcg/day
L-Theanine 100 mg/day
Chasteberry extract 275 mg/day
D-Biotin 15 mg/day

All of the ingredients above can be found in one product and help to balance hormone and blood sugar fluctuations (well-known migraine triggers), while addressing PMS and PCOS symptoms as well.

Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty vegetable soup

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 celery stalks cut into pieces 1/2″ pieces
4 leeks (white and pale-green parts only cut in half lengthwise and cut into 1″ pieces (may substitute with onion)
3 carrots, cut into cubes
2 garlic cloves (crushed)
Red pepper (2 pinches)
Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
5 1/4 cups of homemade or store-bought chicken stock (may substitute with vegetable stock)
1-1/2 cups water
1 small (1 to 1-1/2 pounds) of butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
2 golden potatoes cut into cubes
1 head escarole, cut into 1 inch thick ribbons (my substitute with bok choi)
1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh mint
2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh dill

Variations: May add noodles or shredded chicken for a hearty meal.

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Cook leeks, celery, carrots, garlic, red-pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon salt, stirring occasionally, until leeks are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add stock and water, and bring to a boil.

2. Add squash and potatoes. Return to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered, until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in escarole and chickpeas, and return to a boil. Stir in lemon juice and herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Makes approximately 12 servings.

Enjoy!

Rebound Headaches, Medication Overuse, Recurring Migraines

When the Medication You Turn To… Turns on You

When a headache strikes, our first instinct is to reach for the medication cabinet. Over over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be effective at treating headaches and generally cause fewer side effects than their prescription counterparts. But OTC pain relievers and headache medications are not without side effects. Rebound headaches and recurring migraines are some of the biggest concerns for regular headache sufferers. A rebound headache, also called medication overuse headache, occurs as a result of misusing or taking painkillers (or migraine medications) too frequently.

What is a Rebound Headache?

While the exact mechanism is debatable, researchers believe that the body becomes accustomed to pain-relief medication and higher doses are needed to find relief. Furthermore, as medications wear off, the body goes through a withdrawal reaction, typically more head pain which causes the person to reach for another painkiller. Unfortunately, this creates a vicious cycle that results in chronic rebound headaches or migraine when medication is stopped. It’s frustrating and debilitating; the very thing you’re relying on to feel better is perpetuating a downward spiral of pain that some people experience for weeks, months, or years! Eventually, this cycle may shift receptors or pathways on the brain and alter how pain is perceived by the body.

Scientists have determined that rebound headaches tend to occur as a result of medication misuse or overuse. That means that those who use medicines for longer than advised by their doctor or pharmacist or take too many pills at once are at greater risk for developing these headaches.

Which Medications Cause Rebound Headaches?

Both OTC and prescription medications can cause rebound headaches. The most common OTC medications that cause these headaches are NSAIDs (naproxen, ibuprofen, etc.) as well as acetaminophen. Prescription painkillers like Vicodin, Percocet, and sedatives for sleep have also been shown to trigger rebound headaches.

Advil
Aspirin
Aleve
Tylenol
Ibuprofen
Acetaminophen
Naproxen
Excedrin
Triptans
Butalbital
Ergotamines
Oxycodone
Tramadol
Codeine
Pain medication containing caffeine

Who is at Risk for Rebound Headaches?

If you rely on prescription or over-the-counter painkillers for more than 10-15 days out of a month — you’re at risk for rebound headaches! These headaches typically occur in people who exceed the recommended dosage of one or more pain-relief medications for at least 3 months. Though no two medications are the same, most OTC painkillers should not be taken for more than two days per week unless instructed by a doctor.

Rebound headaches are also more common in those with a primary headache disorder or a history (or a family history) of headaches, migraine, or other chronic pain conditions. Additionally, according to The Lancet Neurology Journal, rebound headaches are more common in women as well as those with a history of depression and anxiety (1).

Rebound Headache Symptoms

So, what does a rebound headache feel like?

If you wake up in the middle of the night or start your day with a pounding head, you’re likely experiencing a rebound headache. They typically occur at these times; when medication begins to wear off. Most people reach for another painkiller, which may help initially, but the pain re-emerges when withdrawal hits hours later.

The severity of these headaches varies from person to person depending on the medication used and how often it’s overused. It may range from a dull headache to a more intense migraine. However, the severity and duration of the pain tends to increase as time progresses and the body becomes more reliant on medication.

Other rebound headache symptoms may include:

Muscle tension
Light and sound sensitivity
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness
Trouble concentrating
Blocked sinuses
Irritability

How Do You Treat a Medication-Overuse Headache?

If you’re plagued by a medication overuse headache, there’s no doubt you want to know how to get rid of rebound headaches!

The solution is not more medication – you cannot keep reaching for the painkillers that are perpetuating the problem. Because these unpleasant headaches or migraine attacks are caused by medications, discontinuing their use may seem like the obvious choice. However, that’s not always safe. If a doctor has prescribed you narcotics, painkillers, or migraine medications, ending the treatment abruptly can worsen headaches. That’s why it is important to talk to your physician and come up with an action plan to adjust your treatment safely.

Depending on the type of medication and the severity of the rebound headaches, doctors may choose to prescribe other drugs to help ease withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, the person may be asked to stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor their symptoms and make sure they are responding well to the new treatment.

On the other hand, if OTC pain relievers are causing your rebound headaches, it may be safe to cut back or try to eliminate them on your own. To break the medication-headache cycle, you can try to discontinue them all together, “cold-turkey” or to cut back gradually. Some people notice that rebound headaches may persist or worsen for a few days or even weeks after they’ve stopped taking medications. That happens because the body may need longer to metabolize and eliminate the medicine from the bloodstream.

Once medication overuse is removed from the equation, your body will adapt and the rebound headaches will taper off. However, you must prepare yourself for an increase in pain initially. Implementing cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, relaxation techniques, trigger avoidance, dietary supplements, and other lifestyle changes may help to reduce the risk of a relapse.

Signs of Rebound Headaches (Medication Overuse Headaches/Recurring Migraine Attacks)

If any of the following signs apply to you, you are probably experiencing Rebound/Medication Overuse Headaches and have probably realized by now, that spending the rest of your life taking pain medications is NOT the answer.

•You suffer from headaches daily or every other day.

•Your pain intensifies about three hours after your last dose of medication.

•Your pain medications don’t work as well as they used to.

•You take more medication, but your headaches are worse.

•You rely on more pills, and you take them more often.

•You take medication even for mild headaches, and you often try to ward off a headache by using a medication.

•You take pain relievers three to four days a week, and you average more than three tablets per day. (This depends on the kind of medication you’re taking, so you’ll need your doctor’s advice.)

•Your pain runs the gamut from mild to moderate to horrible. Usually, the pain is a dull ache that you feel on both sides of your forehead and, sometimes, on the top or back of your head.

•Your headaches occur much more frequently.

How To Prevent Rebound Headaches

Because treating rebound headaches is not always easy, prevention is always the safest approach. These are the three golden rules to prevent medication overuse headaches:

Follow your doctor or pharmacist’s advice: just because OTC pain relievers don’t require a prescription, doesn’t mean they should be taken lightly. In addition to rebound headaches, long-term NSAID use can cause stomach problems like gastritis. To avoid rebound headaches, don’t take medications for longer than advised by your physician, pharmacist or manufacturer.

Only use pain relievers when you need them: pain relievers are not meant to ‘prevent’ headaches or pain. Avoid rebound headaches and other related issues like drug dependency and withdrawal by only taking medications when you need them.

Avoid caffeine when taking painkillers: rebound headaches are more likely to stem from medications that have caffeine – which many headaches and migraine relievers do because caffeine has a tendency to cause dehydration. Taking additional caffeine (like coffee) can further increase the likelihood of getting a rebound headache or a migraine.

Alternative Options for Migraine & Headache Sufferers

If you suffer from daily headaches or chronic migraines, talk to your general practitioner or neurologist to get a proper diagnosis. Also, consider nutritional supplements and natural alternative therapies. Nutritional support, lifestyle changes, tracking your migraine triggers, may be helpful to people who find themselves on the merry-go-round of recurring migraines.

Nutritional supplements that contain magnesium, vitamin B (riboflavin), and feverfew can help you maintain healthy cerebrovascular tone and function as well as maintain healthy mitochondrial reserves in your brain cells. Research has also shown that some migraine sufferers have low levels of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that’s secreted by the pineal gland in your brain. Supplementing with melatonin has also been shown to be beneficial to migraine sufferers. It also helps with sleep when taken in the evening. It is important to note that there is also a sleep/migraine connection. It is crucial for migraine sufferers to get proper sleep. Try DIY ice-therapy during an attack and consider healthy sleep habits to keep migraines at bay. Avoiding foods that trigger migraines, practicing yoga and meditation, and alternative therapies like chiropractic or acupuncture treatments may also help.

Returning Migraine? | Medication Overuse Headaches (MOH)

WHEN THE MEDICATION YOU TURN TO FOR HELP… TURNS ON YOU

You’ve probably heard it all before. At least 30 million people in the U.S. alone suffer from migraine headaches; 75% are women.

For those who have chronic migraines (pain 15 days a month or more), the pain can be so debilitating that just waiting for it to go away, is not an option. So those sufferers resort to either over the counter pain medications like Excedrin Migraine or prescription medications like Imitrex, or Zomig (called Triptans).

These types of medications work to varying degrees depending upon the person. But, even when they work, all is not rosey. Many people become so dependent upon these types of drugs in an attempt to get some relief, that without realizing it, they start using them more and more. In fact, they start over-using them. You may recognize this scenario in your own life. A migraine develops that won’t go away and one of these drugs is administered. The current migraine either goes away or decreases in intensity to the point where it is manageable but a day or two later, another migraine occurs: “The Rebound Headache.”

Of course the question needs to be asked, “Why would a person who originally starts out using them say, once a week, get to a point where he or she is actually using them several times a week?

The answers to this question, though not obvious when you are desperate and in pain, are very simple. Either the migraines are occurring more frequently, the migraines are more painful, or the drug isn’t working as well as it originally did.

Either way, which ever answer fits your particular situation, the prognosis is not good. Your migraines keep coming back and you find yourself reaching for these drugs even more because your problem is now worse…NOT better.

The responsible, occasional use of these kinds of drugs is not an issue. They are safe and effective when used sparingly and serve a definite purpose. However, when over-used, a whole other bunch of risks come into play.

Dr. Fred Sheftell, a well known headache doctor, is upset and concerned that these medications contain no warnings on their labels. He states “There’s nothing that I know of where any of these products say anything about the genesis of rebound headaches and chronic daily headache…I’d like to see that.”

The following is an excerpt from an article posted in ABC news 20/20. It highlights just how complicated and even dangerous this dependence upon these drugs can become when people feel they have no other options to deal with their migraine pain.

A Vicious Cycle –Excerpted from ABC News 20/20

“Here’s how experts think rebound starts. Normally, when you take a pain reliever for an occasional headache, the medicine turns off pain receptors in the brain. But in a person prone to headaches — especially migraine headaches — pain relievers taken more than two to three days a week on a regular basis can make the pain receptors more sensitive than usual.

Consequently, as soon as the medicine wears off, these hyper-sensitive receptors turn on to produce a new headache. That leads the headache sufferer to take more medicine, which, in turn, leads to more headaches — a truly vicious cycle. Before long, most rebound patients are taking headache medicine every single day.

This vicious cycle nearly killed Eric Peterson, a 26-year-old veterinary student. But what will shock you is how little medicine it took to get him in trouble. Peterson’s problems started in high school with migraine headaches that hit him a couple of times a week.

“I think I started with an ibuprofen type. I wasn’t finding a tremendous amount of relief with that. I tried Excedrin and found that controlled things nicely for me,” Peterson said.

Daily Habit Can Trigger Serious Health Problems

Initially, Peterson was able to manage his headaches by taking two Excedrin just two to three times a week, but that was enough to lead to rebound headaches. Soon, Eric was taking the pain relievers every day, which was very bad for both his head and his stomach.

Peterson’s health problems became painfully clear last summer at a Chicago Cubs game. “We were walking up the stands to find our seats and I became very dizzy and light-headed and nearly passed out,” he said.

Years of taking Excedrin had eaten away at Peterson’s stomach lining. He was sitting in the stands slowly bleeding to death. Just four hours later Eric wound up in a hospital emergency room. Doctors were able to save his life, but they told him he could no longer take over-the-counter pain killers.

This was frightening news for Peterson, who had become so reliant on the pain relievers. He was more concerned about how he was going to manage his headaches than he was about the damage to his stomach. “I didn’t know how I was going to cope from day to day without having to be able to take that medication,” he said.

Stop the Medicine, Stop the Pain?

Duane Soderquist, 25 years ago, was in a situation very similar to Peterson’s. Soderquist said, “I think I had seven free headache days in 10 years.”

It was Soderquist’s case that caught the attention of Dr. Joel Saper, a neurologist and founder of the Michigan Head-Pain Neurological Institute in Ann Arbor. A pioneer in the treatment of rebound headaches, Dr. Saper said it was Soderquist who first opened his eyes to the fact that over-the-counter medications could imprison a brain in rebound headaches.

Soderquist had seen 20 doctors for his excruciating daily headaches. At that time, no one realized that his headaches were a result of the hyper-sensitive pain receptors in his brain turned on by the handfuls of over-the-counter medication he was taking every single day. Soderquist said he was taking about 50 tablets a day.
Dr. Saper hospitalized Soderquist, taking him off the medication. “I thought I was gonna die for three days,” Soderquist said. But then an amazing thing happened. Once the medication had cleared from Soderquist’s system, his headaches stopped — for the first time in 10 years. Dr. Saper said, “That’s when I learned the power and the potency of the rebound effect and the need to take people off those medicines.”
Today, Soderquist is virtually headache-free and enormously grateful to Dr. Saper. “The day I left and went home after not having a headache — there at the hospital, the last day — it was just like somebody took a house off my back,” Soderquist said.
Nearly 90 percent of the patients at Dr. Saper’s headache clinic are diagnosed with rebound headaches and each one takes the same first step: Stop the medicine.
Eric Peterson was actually able to detox at home, but he admits it was brutal. “For probably about three days I just had intolerable headaches. … It was probably the most miserable three days of my life,” he said.
But the payoff was worth it! Eric is finally free from daily rebound headaches and he’s managing his occasional migraines with preventive medications and newer treatments like biofeedback.

Can You Get Hooked?

So, do these cases mean you could get hooked on the over-the-counter pain medicines you’re taking? It’s important to remember that if you’re taking these medicines for other problems, like arthritis, it’s usually OK. Rebound headaches can be triggered by the overuse of a wide variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications.
But if you’re starting to take medicines more frequently for headaches be careful. Also remember that migraines are the kind of headache most likely to lead to rebound.
Dr. Saper said it’s most important that frequent headache sufferers consult a physician. “If you’re using this medication more than two or three days per week on a regular basis,” Dr. Saper said, “talk to your doctor about the possibility of rebound headache.”

The Caffeine Connection

It is infuriating to think that products like Excedrin Migraine contain caffeine. It is well known that caffeine is addictive. People trying to wean off caffeine go through major symptoms of drug withdrawal, including more headaches. Dr. Alex Mauskop director of the New York Headache Clinic stated that “Getting off caffeine is one of the best things that migraine sufferers can do to reduce the frequency of their headaches.”

Yet this is much easier said than done and the makers of these products know it!

Signs of Rebound Headaches (Medication Overuse Headaches/Recurring Migraines)

If any of the following signs apply to you, you are probably experiencing Rebound/Medication Overuse Headaches and have probably realized by now, that spending the rest of your life taking pain medications is NOT the answer.

•You suffer from headaches daily or every other day.

•Your pain intensifies about three hours after your last dose of medication.

•Your pain medications don’t work as well as they used to.

•You take more medication, but your headaches are worse.

•You rely on more pills, and you take them more often.

•You take medication even for mild headaches, and you often try to ward off a headache by using a medication.

•Your pain runs the gamut from mild to moderate to horrible. Usually, the pain is a dull ache that you feel on both sides of your forehead and, sometimes, on the top or back of your head.

•Your headaches occur much more frequently.

To get your life back, it may be time to stop the insanity, take yourself off auto-pilot, break the cycle of misery and opt for prevention. It is clearly the most logical and safest approach. When I created MigreLief nutritional supplements for migraine suffers over twenty years ago, it was my firm belief that addressing migraines before they start, is preferable to spending a lifetime treating the symptoms and risking undesirable or even dangerous side-effects.

To the Best of Health,

Curt Hendrix, M.S., C.C.N., C.N.S.
Chief Scientific Officer, Akeso Health Sciences

Ginger Tea Recipes: Tasty Beverage with Many Health Benefits

Managing Chronic Migraine | Tips for Parents with Migraines

Being a parent is a fantastic and rewarding experience, but it can also be incredibly hard sometimes, especially for migraine sufferers. Parenting with a migraine is difficult as you can’t always predict where and when one will strike. But there are ways to manage them, so they are less of an impediment to daily life.

5 Tips for Successful Parenting with Migraines

Always Be Prepared

Though we usually think of being prepared for migraines as having the right medications on hand or avoiding sure-fire triggers, preparing yourself for the inevitable can take many different forms. For instance, having a few frozen lunches or dinners that your kids like waiting to be thawed in case of an emergency will save you the stress of figuring out what to cook right in the middle of a migraine attack.

Also, find a migraine buddy; someone that you trust to take care of your kids (your spouse, a family member, a friend, etc.) when a migraine has you locked in a dark room. This can give you respite during a crisis.

It is important to share a “migraine-attack plan” with your migraine buddy in case they need to take your kids out for a while or pick them up from school. Important things to incorporate on your plan include your kids’ schedules (drop off and pick up times, after school activities, etc.), any allergies, and important phone numbers.

Talk to Your Kids About Your Condition

Children are extremely perceptive, and even if you try to hide it, they almost always know when something’s wrong with mom or dad. Regardless of how old your child is, it is important for them to understand, to the best of their abilities, what’s going on with mom or dad.

Talking candidly about your migraines will help ease any fears they might feel when they see you experiencing an attack and understand why sometimes you can’t play with them, cook dinner or help them with homework. That way, next time they see you laying with all the lights off they’ll know that mommy or daddy will be okay and let to have some much-needed quiet time.

Choose Migraine-Friendly Family Activities

Having quality time while you have a migraine might seem like an impossible task. But the good news is that you can devise a set of migraine-friendly activities to do with your kids when you are in pain. Having a list of quiet or gentle activities to do with your kids during a migraine attack will ease the mom or dad-guilt that comes with having to spend so much time locked away in a dark room and will give your children certainty that you are going to be okay.

For activities with younger kids, you can opt for quietly playing with Legos, slime or Play-Doh. For children of any age, a movie night is always a good option – prepare some popcorn, dim the lights and let your kids pick their favorite movie. Even if you have to lay next to them with your eyes closed, they’ll appreciate the time together.

Empower your kids to be independent early

Encouraging your kid to be self-efficient from a young age will not only make going through a migraine easier for yourself, but it will also prepare them to be an assertive, self-reliant adult when they grow up. These are some age-appropriate chores that will teach responsibility and self-reliance to children:

Ages 2-3

Pick up their toys
Put dirty clothes on the hamper
Make their bed
Put place-mats on the table

Ages 4-6

Feed pets
Water plants
Help fold laundry
Put away groceries

Ages 7-11

Make breakfast (with supervision)
Dust furniture
Take out trash
Clean their room

Ages 12+

Walk dog
Sweep/mop
Vacuum
Wash dishes
Mow lawn

Get plenty of sleep

From constantly worrying about the well-being of others, to not having a single moment alone to yourself, it’s no wonder many parents are seriously sleep deprived. The relationship between lack of sleep and migraines has been well documented. Researchers conducting recent studies have found that sleep deprivation triggers changes in the nervous system that allows for migraines to occur. For individuals who already get the occasional migraine, the lack of sleep and the constant stress that comes from parenting can be a recipe for disaster.

Be kind to yourself

It’s normal to feel guilty about missing your daughter’s soccer game or not being able to make it to your son’s swimming lesson because you had a migraine. However, it is important to remind yourself that you are doing your best; having migraines is not your fault and having them does not make you a bad parent.

Be patient with yourself and your kids and try to make up for lost time when you are feeling better. Nobody’s perfect, so don’t dwell on what you said, did or didn’t do when you were in pain – instead, when you are back to feeling yourself go out and do something fun together, kids are more resilient than we think.

You got this!

Migraine Awareness Week U.K. Sept 1 – 7, 2019

Migraine Awareness Week (MAW) is an annual campaign in the United Kingdom to draw attention to migraine, educate the public, increase understand and reduce stigma. One out of every 7 people suffer migraine. It is an important public health problem in the UK, associated with very substantial costs. Increased awareness about the effects of migraines results in better outcomes, increased access to migraine care as well as empowerment and validation for those diagnosed. There are almost 200,000 migraine attacks every day in the U.K. and migraine sufferers lose 25 million days from work or school each year because of them. Although it is the third most common disease in the world, affecting an estimated one in seven people globally, migraine remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. For more information and support for migraines and headaches in the U.K., visit the links below.

To get involved with MAW, increase awareness, or join a meetup… visit the Migraine Trust’s Migraine Awareness Week page.

Organizations concerned with migraines and headaches in the U.K.

The Migraine Trust, a charity which supports sufferers, educates healthcare professionals and funds research into migraine and other headaches.

The National Migraine Center, the only national charity in the UK that offers treatment and support for migraine sufferers without the need for a GP referral.

The British Association for the Study of Headache, a national organization focused on raising the profile of headache and its surrounding issues.

OUCH, an organization focused on raising public awareness of Cluster Headaches, and offering support and guidance to sufferers.

The International Headache Society, a world-wide organisation for those with a professional commitment to headache, publishes the international headache journal ‘Cephalalgia.’

Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK (TNA UK), a charity providing information and support while raising awareness of TN within the medical community and general public.

European Headache Alliance (EHA): Advocating for the rights and needs of the 80 million people in Europe living with a headache disorder.

European Headache Federation (EHF): Improving awareness of headache disorders and their impact among governments, health care providers and consumers across Europe.

To the Best of Health,

The MigreLief Team at Akeso Health Sciences

Help for children's migraines

Ocular Migraine vs. Visual Migraine – What’s the Difference?

Not all migraine sufferers experience the head pain commonly associated with migraine attacks. Some people experience a type of silent migraine with visual disturbance but no head pain. “Ocular migraine” also known as “retinal migraine” is often confused with “visual migraine” which is a symptom of visual changes or vision loss resulting from the aura phase of the common migraine.

However, for people who experience ocular migraines, the visual changes are a little different and can be very frightening as they most often include temporary vision loss that can last up to an hour. Both ocular migraines and visual migraines can occur with or without a headache.

Ocular Migraine vs. Visual Migraine

Ocular or retinal migraines happen in the eye, so only affect the vision in that eye, while visual migraines occur in the brain, so affect the vision in both eyes together.

Visual Migraine or Migraine with Aura

· A typical migraine accompanied by aura (a variety of visual sensations like a kaleidoscope, zig-zag lines and blind spots that often warn that the pain is on the way)
· Visual disturbances usually affect both eyes
· Aura usually occurs before the migraine head pain attack
· Condition isn’t serious but can make it difficult to function and complete tasks

Ocular or Retinal Migraine (sometimes referred to as eye migraine or ophthalmic migraine)

· Typically occurs in one eye and affects vision when a blood vessel in the eye spasms, resulting in a lack of blood flow.
· Typically include a flickering blind spot or black spot near the center of your field of vision which gradually gets bigger causing vision loss
· Vision loss typically lasts 30 minutes (range is 10 min to 1 hour)
· Usually not accompanied by a headache

Temporary Vision Loss

People experiencing ocular/retinal migraines will see a pattern of black spots called “scotomas.” These black spots gradually get bigger and cause complete loss of vision. Other people will partially lose vision in one eye. This is usually characterized by blurry, dim vision, or twinkling lights called “scintillations.” Vision loss is temporary and restores in under an hour.

What causes ocular/retinal migraines? Ocular migraines occur when the blood vessels to the eyes start to constrict, or narrow. This reduces the blood flow to one of your eyes. When the migraine ends, the blood vessels relax and open up, allowing blood flow to resume and vision is restored.

Ocular migraines are believed to have the same causes or triggers as regular migraines. These triggers may include:

· Lack of Sleep
· Stress or hypertension
· Perfumes and strong odors
· Bright or flickering lights
· Foods containing nitrates such as hot dogs and other processed meats.
· Foods additives such as tyramine or MSG
· Caffeine
· Chocolate
· Tobacco use or cigarette smoke
· Artificial Sweeteners
· Dehydration
· Low blood sugar
· Being in higher altitudes

Migraine headaches have a genetic basis, and some studies say that up to 70 percent of migraine sufferers have a family history of migraine headaches. If one parent has a migraine, there is a 50% chance of a child having it too. If both parents have migraine, the chance of their children also experiencing migraines increases to 75%.

According to the World Health Organization, migraine headaches appear to be triggered by activation of a mechanism deep in the brain, which releases inflammatory substances around nerves and blood vessels in the head and brain. Imaging studies have shown changes in blood flow to the brain during ocular migraines and migraine auras. But why this happens and what brings about the spontaneous resolution of ocular migraines and visual migraines remain unknown.
NOTE: Temporary vision loss caused by ocular or retinal migraines, like migraine with aura is relatively minor, however, you should always check with your doctor first to be properly diagnosed and rule out other serious health issues.

DIAGNOSIS: There are no diagnostic tests to confirm retinal migraine. Diagnosis is accomplished by reviewing the patient’s personal and family medical history, studying their symptoms, and doing an examination. Retinal migraine is then diagnosed by ruling out other causes for the symptoms. With retinal migraine, it is essential that other causes of transient blindness, such as stroke of the eye (amaurosis fugax), be fully investigated and ruled out. Seeing an ophthalmologist for a full eye exam is generally required for a good look at the back of the eyes.

KEEP A MIGRAINE DIARY & TRIGGER TRACKER

Keeping a migraine journal/diary to help uncover and track your migraine triggers can help you understand and avoid those triggers. Popular triggers include lack of sleep, dehydration, changes in weather (barometric pressure), eating certain processed foods like aged cheese, MSG containing foods, bright lights from computer screens/television, stress, and even strenuous exercise. Avoiding your triggers once discovered can go long way towards migraine prevention. (FREE MIGRAINE DIARY & TRIGGER TRACKER – Click Here)

MIGRAINE SUFFERERS SHOULD NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF NUTRITION:

Optimizing nutritional status through supplementation is very beneficial. The dietary supplement Migrelief, both daily and as-needed formulas, provides nutritional ingredients proven to be beneficial when it comes to maintaining healthy cerebrovascular tone and function (blood vessels in the brain) and maintaining healthy mitochondrial energy reserves (the powerhouses of brain cells).