Migraine headaches are severe headaches that plague 28 million Americans. While much research has been done into the causes and cures for migraines, many migraine sufferers have been unable to find relief through conventional medicines and treatment. Some research indicates that vitamin B-2 may help relieve some migraines, although treatment should always be supervised by a qualified doctor.
Vitamin B-2
Vitamin B-2 is one of the eight B vitamins, and also known as riboflavin. Most people get sufficient amounts of B-2 through their diets, but you are using it as a natural remedy for migraines, you will need a dietary supplement to get enough of the vitamin. Riboflavin works as an antioxidant, reducing free radicals and boosting your immune system. In the case of migraines, it also interacts with other vitamins in your brain's chemistry, which may help prevent the occurrence of migraines.
Vitamin B-2 Effects on Migraines
The neurological causes of migraines have not been fully researched yet. The Linus Pauling Institute reports some preliminary evidence demonstrates that faulty oxygen metabolism in your brain cells' mitochondria -- a cellular component -- is connected to the development of migraines. Your body takes in B-2 and then uses its chemical components to make enzymes used in your brain cells' cellular respiration. Whether your diet does not have enough B-2, or your brain simply needs more, one of your migraine causes might be the inability to produce the enzymes needed in cellular respiration.
Dosages of B-2
While the RDA for B-2 is 1.3 mg daily for men and 1.1 mg daily for women, these dosages are too low to have positive impact on your migraines. A more effective dose may be as high as 400 mg of riboflavin per day, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. This may seem high, but Dr. Carolyn Bernstein, a neurologist at the Arnold Pain Management Center in Boston, says in an article for TheBostonChannel.com that there is no danger of overdosing on B-2 and causing toxicity.
Vitamin B-2 and Your Current Treatment
The Linus Pauling Institute reports on a 1998 study that found chronic migraine sufferers who took 400 mg of B-2 daily reduced their migraine attacks by half. Vitamin B-2 does not seem to decrease the intensity or duration of a migraine attack. Rather, it is more effective in preventing migraines. Because studies are still inconclusive and results vary from person to person, consult with your physician before changing your current treatment plan or ceasing any medication.
Member Comments