The Effect of Diet on Migraine Symptoms

Eating patterns and obesity are key factors in the prevention of migraine, said Maureen Moriarty, DNP, ANP-BC, during her session at Practical Updates in Primary Care 2021 today.

She began her presentation by discussing the epidemiology of migraine, pointing out that although nearly 1 in 10 US adults experience migraine, nearly 40% of cases go undiagnosed worldwide.

She also talked about screening methodology for migraine and the pathophysiology of the condition. 

Next, she shifted focus to the importance of dietary patterns, including the role of missed meals, fasting, the effects of snacking on morning migraine, and how certain foods affect migraine risk. She went on to discuss particular dietary interventions that can improve outcomes in certain patients with migraine. She also gave an overview of the low glycemic index diet, which helps reduce inflammation; the MIND diet; calorie restriction; ketogenic diet; and allergy testing.

Lastly, she examined the role of vitamins and supplements in the reduction of migraine symptoms, including vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, feverfew, magnesium, and probiotics.

—Michael Potts

Reference

Moriarty M. Dietary patterns and migraine prevention. Talk presented at: Practical Updates in Primary Care 2021 Virtual Series; May 13-15, 2021; Virtual.