5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): Research by the Harvard Medical School and the Natural standard suggests that 5-HTP may be particularly effective in reducing both the severity and frequency of migraine headaches. This is thought to work as 5-HTP increases the body’s production of serotonin, and low serotonin levels have been associated with migraines. Supplementation is at 200 to 600 milligrams a day on 5-HTP for migraine prevention.
Coenzyme Q10: This antioxidant may help prevent migraines. Studies, including a double-blind, randomized trial showed that more than 60 percent of patients who took 150 milligrams of CoQ10 daily experienced a 50 percent or better reduction in the number of days with migraines.
If you have new-onset headaches, a change in frequency or intensity, or any neurological symptoms, you should speak with your doctor before trying any remedies. A new or increasing headache may be a sign of an underlying medical problem, and needs to be evaluated prior to chronic treatment for presumed migraines.
Drs. Kay Judge and Maxine Barish-Wreden are medical directors of Sutter Downtown Integrative Medicine program in Sacramento, Calif.
©2013 The Sacramento Bee (Sacramento, Calif.)
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