Migraines can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, stress, barometric pressure or changes in blood pressure, but regardless of what causes them, they are often severely debilitating. Tingling in the fingers or lips, extreme sensitivity to light and sound, throbbing pain and nausea often drive sufferers to a dark closet or to bed in extreme pain that may last from several minutes to hours. However, taking a variety of vitamin supplements may help reduce the pain and duration of migraines, which may be caused for some by vitamin deficiencies.
Calcium
Calcium is naturally found in dark green leafy vegetables as well as in supplement form. Calcium is designed to regulate release of a neurotransmitter in the brain called serotonin. Abnormal levels of serotonin in the brain produce migraine and tension headaches. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) suggests 1,000 mg of calcium per day for adults, though individuals who take between 1,200 and 1,600 mg of calcium a day often experience relief and well as reduction of frequency of migraines.
B Vitamins
These two B vitamins have long been used to treat headaches and pain caused by migraines. Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is found in yeast, leafy greens and organ meats, almonds, wheat germ and wild rice. According to a 1998 issue of "Neurology," individuals experiencing migraines should take 400 mg of riboflavin or Vitamin B2 every day for at least two months can reduce migraine attacks by approximately 50 percent.
Magnesium
Magnesium is also a product found in dark green leafy vegetables and is often effective in reducing the severity as well as frequency of migraine headaches. Herbert Mansmann, M.D., associate professor at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia states, "Of 17 people we have treated with magnesium, 13 have had complete improvement." Magnesium helps to keep blood vessels open and prevent the release of pain-producing chemicals or substances in the brain. Adequate daily intake of magnesium should average about 400 mg.
