An Australian study shows that safe, inexpensive B Vitamins and folic acid could be two powerful heavy hitters in the fight against migraines. Professor Lyn Griffiths of Griffith University said a trial found that vitamin B and folate significantly reduced the symptoms associated with migraine.
“The trial provided vitamin B supplements and folic acid to more than 50 longterm migraine sufferers for six months,” said Griffith, who is director of Griffiths Genomics Research Center. “Results showed a drastic improvement in headache frequency, pain severity and associated disability for those treated.”
Migraine sufferers have severe headaches that can trigger symptoms including nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to bright lights and sounds. Attacks can last up to 72 hours.
Migraines are usually treated with powerful painkillers.
People who have migraines also often have higher than normal levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which is known to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. “The recent trial was founded on the theory that vitamin B supplements and folic acid will reduce the homocysteine and in turn, improve migraine symptoms,” said Griffiths.
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