Magnesium May Provide Help For Headaches
Whether you deal with migraines or just stubborn headaches from time to time, additional magnesium in your diet or through supplements could provide help for headaches.
We’ll see how studies have shown that magnesium can provide relief from migraines in some people as well as reducing their frequency.
Here is one look at how magnesium can provide help for headaches.
Magnesium and migraines
Significant research has shown that people with migraines often have lower levels of magnesium than those without them. One study actually found that regular intake of magnesium reduced the frequency of migraine attacks by 41.6 percent. Other research has shown that taking daily magnesium supplements can be effective at preventing menstrual-related migraines.
Magnesium oxide is most frequently used to prevent migraines. You can take it in pill form, with a general recommended dosage of about 400 to 500 milligrams a day. Magnesium can be administered intravenously in the form of magnesium sulfate.
Because magnesium is a natural element and is necessary for our health, it may be a safe migraine treatment. This is especially true when compared to migraine medications, which can come with more severe side effects. – Healthline
Tips About Magnesium
Here are some important tips for you if you are considering magnesium to reduce your headaches or migraines. It’s always a good idea to know as much as possible before adding any new supplement to your routine. There are several forms
There are several forms of magnesium available. You may want to learn about each one before deciding which type to take.
Take a look at these tips.
Taking Magnesium Supplements for Migraines
If you’re thinking about taking magnesium for migraines, ask your doctor if it’s a good choice for you. Tell your doctor about all dietary supplements you take. Supplements—even those purchased over-the-counter—can react with other supplements or medications.
Potential interactions with magnesium supplements include:
Antibiotics that contain tetracycline. These can combine with magnesium in the gut and decrease absorption of tetracycline.
Antacids and laxatives that contain magnesium. These can lead to elevated magnesium levels in the blood. In extreme cases, this can cause magnesium toxicity.
Some forms of magnesium tablets may cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea.Magnesium In Your Diet
The best way to get your daily dose of magnesium is with a healthy diet. Magnesium is found in a wide variety of healthy foods, including:
green vegetables
legumes (peas and beans)
nuts and seeds
whole grains (unrefined—magnesium is absent from processed white flour)
potatoes with skin
long-grained brown rice
bananas
yogurt
milk
halibut
tap water (varies by water supply—hard water has more magnesium than soft water) – Healthtools AARP