Migraine headaches cause intense throbbing and often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sounds. Indirect changes often signal the start of a migraine headache which includes a stiff neck, moodiness, diarrhea, food cravings, constipation and depression. Oftentimes, the individual can determine the specific triggers for the migraine attack and make changes in order to avoid an attack in the future.
One of the common triggers is red wine while grape juice and grape seed extract is known to provide relief for many individuals. Before an individual attempts to try any alternative treatment or implement dietary changes, a doctor should be consulted first to prevent additional complications from occurring.
What are the possible causes?
Environmental factors and heredity usually play a role in the development of migraines. An imbalance in the brain chemicals particularly the serotonin levels can lead to severe pain. As for nutritional deficiencies that can be corrected with supplements and diet, it is best to determine the culprit responsible for the headaches.
Determining the potential triggers can help prevent the symptoms. The usual foods that can trigger headaches include alcohol, aged cheese, caffeine, chocolate and monosodium glutamate (MSG). Other potential triggers include stress, intense exercise, changes in the weather and irregular sleeping patterns. Just remember though that the triggers for migraines tend to vary for each individual.
Nutrition
If the individual skips meals, it can lead to migraine headaches and there is a need for additional nutrition to prevent future headaches from occurring. Take note that vitamin B2 or riboflavin is known to be effective in managing migraine headaches. In one study, individuals who were treated with riboflavin experienced a reduction in the number of migraines that they experience. Even feverfew, magnesium, amino acid 5-hydroxytryptophan and butterbur are other nutritional supplements that can help deal with migraines.
Grapes
It is important to note that grapes are packed with vitamins A and C as well as B2 and other antioxidants. The individual can create his/her own juice and include the skin and seeds to provide the highest levels of riboflavin and other essential nutrients to relieve the migraines.
What are the benefits?
The vitamin B2 present in grapes and grape juice can also interact favorably with the liver function which often plays a vital role in migraine development. The classic migraines that are not linked with sinus congestion or hormonal fluctuations are often linked to abnormal liver function.
Vitamin B2 functions as an iron antagonist that minimizes the iron contents. The high levels of vitamin C in grapes effectively balance out the iron levels if the migraines are linked mainly with irregular estrogen levels.
If the individual plans to include grape juice as a measure to effectively manage migraine attacks, it is still best to consult a doctor.