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Migraines are severe headaches that disable sufferers for 4 to 72 hours. Migraines are the expression of a complex neurovascular disease. The throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light are challenging symptoms to deal with.

Gratefully, acupuncture and nutritional therapy can help get to the root cause of migraines and greatly reduce or even eliminate migraine symptoms. Acupuncture alone has shown itself to be highly effective.

A 2016 Cochrane review of 22 clinical trials involving nearly 5,000 participants found that acupuncture significantly reduces migraine frequency compared to both drug treatment and usual care. Cochrane is a global, independent, non-profit network of health researchers, professionals, and patients who work together to produce trusted, high-quality health information that improves healthcare worldwide.

When we look at the underlying physiology, we know that inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired antioxidant status can contribute to migraines. Also, an increase in homocysteine levels can lead to migraine attacks. Hormone dysregulation is another factor, so balancing the endocrine system is essential. To get to the root cause of the problem, we need to examine the individual and find out exactly what the body is missing and why it’s out of balance. Each individual has a unique presentation. We’ve helped many people with migraines, and that’s why we’re confident that acupuncture and targeted nutritional therapy are effective tools in treating them.

For migraine sufferers, there are some general strategies that can reduce the occurrence and severity of migraines.

Avoid seed oils. Soybean oil and other seed oils contain omega-6 fatty acids and are inflammatory. An excess of omega-6 fatty acids causes migraines because they are precursors to oxylipins that have pain-promoting properties. They can sensitize trigeminal nerve endings, creating an environment for pain. In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids generate oxylipins with pain-reducing effects. Research indicates that modern diets high in omega-6s and low in omega-3s disrupt this balance, leading to increased neuroinflammation and trigeminal nerve sensitization.

Another possible factor is sodium deficiency. Research indicates that migraines may be triggered by low sodium levels, with some studies noting a relationship between sodium intake and headache frequency. Studies have found an inverse correlation between severe migraine history and dietary sodium intake, suggesting that individuals with migraines often consume less salt than those without the condition. When choosing salt, avoid industrialized salt that has been super-heated and stripped of its naturally occurring trace minerals. Choose a high-quality sea salt instead.

Migraines are not simply random events — they are signals that the body is under strain and asking for support. When we address the underlying physiological imbalances rather than only suppress symptoms, real, lasting improvement becomes possible.

Want to hear more from Vital Health? Check out our podcast. Search for VitalHealth4You on your favorite podcast listening app or go to vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

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Greg Anderton holds a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is a Licensed Acupuncturist. He is additionally trained in Clinical Nutrition and Herbal Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience in natural medicine. Greg is a “Health Detective,” he looks beyond your symptom picture and investigates WHY you are experiencing your symptoms in the first place. Greg is currently accepting new patients and offers natural health care services and whole food nutritional supplements at Vital Health in Coeur d’ Alene. Visit our website at www.vitalhealthcda.com to learn more about Greg, view a list of upcoming health classes and read other informative articles. Greg can be reached at 208-765-1994 and would be happy to answer any questions regarding this topic.