Migraine is a multifaceted disease that needs different approaches to reduce the severity of its symptoms, depending on its cause. The causes can vary starting from genetics and hormonal changes and ending by environment, and nutrition.

A recent large study investigated the influence of dietary calcium and magnesium on migraine. These 2 minerals have been chosen because of their important role in nerve function. After analysis of information from 10.798 adults over a 5-year period, the researchers concluded that there is a difference in how dietary magnesium and calcium influence women and men. High dietary intake of calcium (670 – 1.700 mg/day) and magnesium (≥ 243 mg/d), apart or in combination, reduce migraine attacks in women. For men, only high dietary calcium helped deal with migraine. Magnesium turned not to have any impact on migraine in men.

The researchers highlight that their study was focused on the dietary calcium and magnesium as the supplements, if taken in high doses, have negative side effects. For instance, calcium and magnesium supplements can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. On the other hand, calcium supplements can increase the risk of kidney stone disease and cardiovascular disease. That is why the researchers recommend to use dietary calcium and magnesium to treat and/or prevent migraine.

Curious? Here is the source: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.653765/full