RIBOFLAVIN is a common B vitamin and has been shown to be an effective prophylactic in the prevention of migraines.

MAGNESIUM has putative anti-migraine activity. While its mechanism of action is currently unknown, speculation is that its vasodilitory, calcium channel blocking, and possible reduction of reperfusion dysfunction actions may benefit vascular headaches and muscle tension headaches.

GINGER ROOT EXTRACT through its volatile oil content has been shown to inhibit migraines by acting as a vasodilator (helps prevent vasoconstrictive trigger phase), and inhibiting leukotriene and thromboxane synthesis associated with platelet aggregation.

FEVERFEW EXTRACT inhibits the release of serotonin from platelets. This results in less vasoconstriction of blood vessels. Feverfew regulates the production and release of inflammatory compounds.

PETASITES (BUTTERBUR) has beneficial effects as an antispasmodic on smooth muscle. This effect is beneficial for vascular headaches by normalizing vascular tone and improving circulation.

GINKGO BILOBA may have benefits for vascular headaches due to its beneficial effects on normalizing smooth muscle vascular tone and overall circulation.

DIETARY CONSIDERATIONS: Vascular headaches have been shown to have a high incidence of food allergy/intolerance associated with their aggravation. Because delayed response allergies can be difficult to document when interviewing the patient, it is recommended that every migraine/vascular headache patient be screened for food sensitivity. Elimination/Challenge or serum antibody testing are considered the most accurate methods. Certain tyramine containing foods such as aged cheeses, red wines, fermented sausages, sour cream, etc., may trigger migraine headaches.
Phenylethylamine (chocolate), nitrates (hot dogs), levodopa (broad bean pods), and occasionally citrus and nuts may provoke a migraine attack. Dairy allergy or lactose enzyme deficiency has been associated with migraines in some patients. Sensitivity to artificial sweeteners also should be ruled out. Although caffeine can help reducethe severity of a vascular headache in progress, it is part of the problem in that it leads to the vasoconstriction trigger phase. Encourage your patient to get off of all caffeine (coffee, colas, teas, chocolate, OTC drugs). Read the ingredient label. Caffeine is added to many products. Avoid sugar! A high sugar diet may lead to irregular blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar may trigger migraine headaches. Sugar and high carbohydrate diets increase tryptophan uptake by the brain leading to higher levels of serotonin production. Higher serotonin levels have been associated with greater risk of migraine. Higher intake of fish and (magnesium) may help reduce migraine attacks. ... Click here to continue reading