Migraines are far worse than the usual headache. They can last for days and dramatically affect your quality of life. There are many different things that may trigger a migraine, including low levels of magnesium. If you're considering taking magnesium for your migraines, check with doctor to discuss dosing and potential side effects.
Migraines
The throbbing, pounding pain of a migraine occurs because of changes in blood flow in the brain. Prior to a migraine, patients may experience symptoms such as visual disturbances, weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking or a tingling sensation when blood vessels constrict and blood flow is reduced. Later, migraine pain begins when blood vessels enlarge and blood flow increases. Migraine triggers include alcohol, certain foods, hormonal changes, bright lights, loud noises, certain odors, stress, lack of sleep, caffeine, smoking, some medications, heat and high humidity.
Magnesium
You can get magnesium from many foods, including whole grains, nuts and green vegetables, but many people don't get as much as they should. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that magnesium is used by every organ in the body, especially the heart, muscles and kidneys. It activates enzymes in the body, helps produce energy and helps regulate the levels of such important nutrients as calcium, copper, zinc, potassium and vitamin D. The recommended dietary allowance for adults ranges from roughly 300 to 400 mg per day, based on age and gender, and whether a woman is nursing or pregnant.
Migraine-Magnesium Link
Researchers have found that people who suffer from migraines tend to have magnesium levels that are lower than those in people who have tension headaches or no headaches at all. Low levels of magnesium or fluctuations in magnesium levels may trigger migraines in some individuals. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that several studies suggest magnesium supplements may help some migraine sufferers by reducing the frequency of migraines, shortening the duration of a migraine or reducing the amount of medication needed to stop the pain.
Warning
If you want to give magnesium supplements a try, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends between 200 and 600 mg of magnesium per day. Magnesium is well tolerated by most people, but possible side effects include lower blood pressure and diarrhea, so talk with your doctor before taking magnesium or any other supplement. People with heart or kidney disease should take magnesium supplements only while under a doctor's care. In addition, magnesium can cause a calcium deficiency if calcium levels are already low.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Migraine
- Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute: Micronutrient Information Center: Magnesium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Migraine Headache
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Magnesium
- UCLA Headache Research and Treatment Program: Migraine: Questions and Answers for Patients
