Headaches are commonly caused by the constriction or dilation of blood vessels in the brain, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Nearly 9 percent of women and 2.6 percent of men in the United States suffer from severe headaches. The Balches and other alternative medicine professionals believe that certain vitamins may help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Check with your doctor before taking vitamins to address the symptoms of headaches.
Vitamin C
According to the "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," vitamin C is essential for reducing the severity of headaches. This vitamin may help increase blood circulation to the brain. It is also an immune system booster and may help prevent blood vessels in the brain from becoming damaged. Vitamin C may stimulate the production of anti-stress hormones in the brain, which may help prevent the occurrence of headaches. This vitamin is found in lemons, limes, oranges, kiwifruit, spinach, broccoli and avocados.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is one of eight B vitamins necessary for nervous-system function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This vitamin improves the transmission of impulses to the brain. It also helps the brain produce serotonin and norepinepherine, which can help regulate stress levels and reduce pain. Vitamin B6 is found in food sources such as brown rice, sunflower seeds, poultry, fish, shellfish, beans and whole grains.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin substance that is considered a potent antioxidant, according to the "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This vitamin helps deliver oxygen to the brain tissues and enhances the function of the immune system. It also improves blood circulation to the brain, which may help relieve headaches. Coenzyme Q10 is found in salmon, mackerel, sardines, spinach, peanuts and red meat products.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
