More than 1 billion people worldwide live their lives with severe headaches. Migraine can turn life into a nightmare with symptoms such as nausea and extreme sensitivity to light. Although heavy medications might be the first thing that comes to mind in dealing with migraines, there might be another way to alleviate these unbearable attacks: Your gut health.
Details👇
Research shows that during migraine attacks, abnormal electrical and chemical activities in the brain increase, resulting in symptoms such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and vision disorders.
Among the factors that trigger migraines are stress, hormonal changes, insomnia, prolonged hunger, weather conditions, and dietary habits. According to experts, the secret to dealing with migraines lies in recognizing and controlling these triggers. But what if our intestines are at the center of it all?
The brain and intestines communicate directly through a neural network called the 'gut-brain axis'. Thanks to this system, gut health can affect brain functions and even our mood.
Symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain during a migraine are a result of this relationship. Moreover, constant use of painkillers can weaken the intestinal wall and lead to problems such as leaky gut syndrome. This situation can also make migraine attacks more frequent.
The abundance of these bacteria is seen as one of the triggers of migraines. Additionally, it has been determined that people with migraines have less bacterial diversity in their intestines.
Researchers observed that the frequency and severity of migraine attacks decreased when they applied probiotic treatment to participants.
So, what habits do experts recommend us to adopt to alleviate migraines?
Anti-inflammatory diet: Mediterranean-type diet can alleviate migraines by reducing the level of inflammation in the body. It is crucial to stay away from refined sugar and processed foods.
Probiotic foods: Foods such as yogurt, kefir, pickles, kimchi, kombucha tea, sourdough bread, tarhana, and cheese strengthen the gut microbiota.
Expert support: Probiotic supplements should be used under the control of a specialist according to personal needs.
In conclusion, maintaining gut health can be a strong step not only for digestion but also to alleviate migraine attacks.