Scientists talked about a diet that reduces the intensity and duration of migraines

A diet that contains fatty fish and a low content of vegetable oils has helped to reduce the duration and intensity of migraines. This is stated in a study published in the journal Science Daily.

"This study has revealed intriguing evidence that dietary changes have the potential to improve a very debilitating chronic pain condition such as migraines without the associated disadvantages of commonly prescribed medications," said Luigi Ferrucci, scientific director of the National Institute of Aging (NIA).

The study involved 182 adults who regularly experience migraine attacks. For 16 weeks, the participants followed one of three diet options. The first group received fish with a high fat content and food with a low level of linoleic acid. The second is with the same volume of fish, but without restrictions on vegetable fats. The third group followed a typical diet with a predominance of vegetable oils and a minimum amount of seafood.

According to the magazine, the diets included fish, salads, hummus, vegetables, and breakfast items. Participants recorded the number and duration of migraines, the severity of pain, as well as the effects of seizures on daily activity, the need for painkillers, and overall well-being on a daily basis.

Prior to the start of the experiment, patients suffered from an average of more than 16 headaches per month, each of which was accompanied by more than five hours of migraines. People also noted a severe decrease in their quality of life, despite the constant use of specialized medications.

The most pronounced effect was observed in those who followed a diet high in fatty fish and low in vegetable oils. In these participants, the number of hours of pain per day and the total number of days with migraines decreased by 30-40% compared to the control group. A blood test also showed a decrease in the level of lipids associated with pain reactions.

Despite a clear decrease in the intensity and frequency of seizures, participants did not report a significant improvement in overall well-being or an increase in their standard of living. According to the researchers, this is due to the fact that migraine is a complex condition that requires a multi—level approach to treatment.

Treating crying: rapid test selects migraine therapy based on patient's tears

How innovation will reduce drug selection from months to minutes

Anna Terekhova, a neurologist, algologist, and head of the Chronic pain treatment center of JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia on May 21 that migraine prevention requires an integrated approach, including medications and lifestyle changes. The key measures are regular physical activity, control of provoking factors and identification of individual triggers.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.