We have all experienced a headache at some point in our lives. There are several different types of headaches, though it is typically characterized by mild to severe pressure or pain on one or both sides of the head. People commonly mistake a severe headache for migraine, though it differs greatly. That’s because migraine is a neurological disorder that’s characterized by additional debilitating symptoms, including but not limited to:
- Nausea
- Pain behind one eye or ear
- Pain in the temples
- Seeing spots or flashing lights
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
- Temporary vision loss
- Vomiting
Migraine At A Glance
Chances are, either you or someone you know, has had a migraine. This condition is incredibly prevalent. In fact, one billion people experience migraines worldwide. This condition is the 6th leading cause of disability, and over 90% of sufferers are unable to function during an episode.
On average, those who develop migraines experience them an average of 1-2 times per month. With that said, more than 4 million people experience a minimum of 15 migraines per month.
In addition to a hereditary component, common triggers include:
- Emotional stress
- Poor sleep quality
- Birth Control
- Alcohol
- Hormonal imbalances
- Nutritional deficiencies
To effectively decrease migraine frequency, learning aspects of your life that may contribute to onset is crucial.
How Vitamin D Affects Migraine Occurrence
As mentioned above, nutritional imbalance is one key contributor to migraine. Vitamin D is a perfect example, and is often overlooked. Research shows this important micronutrient regulates our immune system, nerve health, inflammatory response, and so much more.
That’s why it comes to no surprise to learn that vitamin D deficiency is linked with inflammation and nerve pain. Deficiency is highly prevalent among migraine sufferers, affecting anywhere from 40%-100% of these individuals. Research suggests migraine sufferers who are also vitamin D deficient experience up to a 20% increase in headache frequency.
In addition, research discovered vitamin D supplementation helps reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. One RCT of 65 patients found supplementing with 50,000 IU vitamin D per week reduced the frequency of both headache and migraines. Another RCT including 48 migraine sufferers found vitamin D supplementation decreased the number of migraine days.
Why Is Vitamin D Deficiency So Prevalent?
Vitamin D deficiency is so prevalent because we simply cannot get enough from our diet alone. Our bodies naturally produce an abundance of vitamin D when we expose our skin to direct, mid-day sunlight. If you cover the majority of your skin when outside, or wear sunblock, you cannot produce vitamin D adequately. If this sounds like you, supplementation is key.
Vitamin D deficiency is often coined as a “silent deficiency” because symptoms are often vague and easily overlooked. However, if you struggle with chronic migraine, it may be wise to take action by testing your levels.
Get Involved
Our team at Go Integrative Health highlighted this important topic in an effort to draw awareness and inspire action for National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month. This month, we would love to see you join us by getting involved! From awareness walks, to sharing your story, to simply learning more about this complex health issue, your participation makes a difference.
Are looking for guidance on nutrition, overall health, or optimizing your vitamin D levels? Contact our team for your complimentary consultation.
Citation
Sturges, Missy. Can Vitamin D Reduce Migraine Frequency? Go Integrative Health, 2021.