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What Deficiency Causes Migraines?

Migraines are severe headaches that can cause nausea, aversion to light and noise--and excruciating pain. Migraine sufferers often report a diminished capacity when experiencing an attack and may miss work, school or other daily activities.

  1. Cause

    • According to A. Mauskop and B.M. Altura, of the New York Headache Center, research has shown that migraines can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, specifically a deficiency in magnesium.

    Magnesium

    • Magnesium is a mineral that can relax blood vessels and increase the body's efficient use of serotonin. The USDA has performed studies that show a high correlation between migraine sufferers and low levels of magnesium.

    Serotonin

    • Magnesium steadies serotonin levels. A dip or rise in serotonin can cause blood vessels to dilate or constrict, which leads to migraines.

    Consequences

    • Low levels of magnesium can lead to migraines. In the June 24, 2009 issue of "Neurology," Dr. Tobias Kurth of Harvard Medical School, stated that migraines, especially in women, are a health concern that can lead to more serious conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.

    Treatment

    • Migraine sufferers should incorporate more magnesium into their diet through foods such as vegetables, legumes and nuts or through magnesium supplements.

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