Migraine headache is one of the most common disorders encountered by primary care physicians. A February 2011 "American Family Physician" review reports that 18 percent of women and 6 percent of men in the U.S. suffer from migraines, and half of these individuals experience a significant reduction in daily productivity because of it. Dietary factors have little to do with triggering migraines, but certain food additives, such as omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, might actually reduce the frequency of your headaches. Check with your physician before using fish oil for migraines.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The principal constituents of fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. These two omega-3 fatty acids have been attributed with a variety of health benefits, including protection from cardiovascular disease, relief of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions and even anticancer effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a prescription-strength fish oil preparation for treating high triglycerides. Fish oil may also be beneficial for managing your migraine headaches.
Mechanism
The mechanisms for many of fish oil's health benefits are not completely understood. Your cells metabolize EPA and DHA through the same enzymatic pathways that produce prostaglandins and other inflammatory molecules that often provoke migraines. Omega-3's compete for these pathways, resulting in reduced prostaglandin synthesis. Furthermore, metabolism of EPA and DHA actually leads to production of anti-inflammatory substances. Thus, taking fish oil reduces prostaglandin levels while simultaneously increasing your blood levels of anti-inflammatory compounds.
Clouded Conclusions
According to the August 2002 issue of "Journal of Adolescent Health," 1.5 grams of fish oil daily dramatically reduced the frequency, severity and duration of migraines in adolescents during a five-month clinical trial. Interestingly, the placebo used in this study -- olive oil -- also evoked a strong anti-migraine effect, perhaps indicating that benefit can be derived from different types of fatty acids. This same placebo effect has muddled the results of other studies investigating the effects of fish oil on migraines.
Considerations
Recurrent migraines can be a debilitating condition and often causes a reduction in school and work performance. Medications for both treatment and prevention of acute episodes are not always helpful, and dietary interventions that carry minimal side effects are attractive options for migraine sufferers. Fish oil, by virtue of its multiple health benefits, is a particularly intriguing tool for migraine management. A dose of 1.5 grams daily has proven useful in at least one study. Ask your doctor if fish oil is appropriate for you.
References
- "American Family Physician"; Treatment of Acute Migraine Headache; B. Gilmore, M. Michael; February 2011
- ""The Journal of Family Practice"; What Dietary Interventions Are Indicated for Migraines?; P. Crawford, M. Simmons; January 2006
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Drug and New Biologic Approvals in 2004
- "Journal of Adolescent Health"; Supplementation with Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Management of Recurrent Migraines in Adolescents; Z. Harel, et al.; August 2002
Member Comments