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Fourth of July – Cake Recipes with Summertime Berries

Summertime is berry time.  When the hot days of summer hit, these small bites of juicy sweetness are a perfect pick-me-up.  Work fresh berries into your 4th of July celebration with one of the cake recipes below and have a happy 4th of July!

Berry tip:  Do not wash berries until you’re ready to use them. Wash strawberries with the hull on, then hull and slice them.

Angel Food Cake Stuffed with Whipped Cream and Berries

Angel-food cake with berries

Note – for those of you who do not like to cook, you can purchase the whip cream and angel food cake pre-made (or use box mix)

See below for tastiest version from Recipes.com

This summery sweet takes three basics–cake, whipped cream, and berries–and elevates them to showstopper status with a few neat tricks. Ginger and orange juice brighten the light, spongy angel food cake, while vanilla bean seeds perfume the whipped cream. The berries are stashed inside the cake itself, their bright color offering a visual surprise with every slice.

Ingredients

Berries:

  • 2 cups fresh raspberries
  • 1-1/2 cups fresh blackberries
  • 1-1/2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Cake:

  • 1 cup cake flour (about 4 ounces)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 12 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Whipped cream:

  • 3/4 cup whipping cream, chilled
  • 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • Remaining ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Grated orange rind (optional)

Preparation

  1. To prepare berries, combine first 5 ingredients; toss to combine. Cover and chill 1 hour.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°.
  3. To prepare cake, place a rack in the lower third of oven. Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Sift together flour, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and ginger in a medium bowl. Sift together remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 3/4 cup granulated sugar in another bowl. Place egg whites in a large bowl; beat with a mixer at high speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and salt; beat until soft peaks form. Add powdered and granulated sugar mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form. Sift flour mixture over egg white mixture, 1/4 cup at a time; fold in. Fold in 2 tablespoons juice.
  4. Spoon batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan, spreading evenly. Break air pockets by cutting through batter with a knife. Bake at 375° for 30 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched. Invert pan; cool completely. Loosen cake from sides of pan using a narrow metal spatula. Invert the cake onto a plate.
  5. Cut 1 inch off top of cake using a serrated knife; set top of cake aside. Hollow out bottom of cake using a small knife, leaving a 1-inch-thick shell; reserve torn cake for another use.
  6. To prepare whipped cream, place cream in a medium bowl; beat with a mixer at high speed until soft peaks form. Scrape seeds from vanilla bean into bowl; discard pod. Gradually add 3/4 cup powdered sugar, beating at high speed until stiff peaks form.
  7. Spoon all but 1 cup of berry mixture into cake shell; top with whipped cream. Replace top of cake; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar. Serve immediately with additional berry mixture; garnish with orange rind, if desired.
Note:  For perfect whipped cream, use a bowl that’s large enough to allow the cream to double in volume. In advance, refrigerate the bowl and beaters for at least half an hour, or place them in the freezer for 15 minutes, and make sure the cream is very cold. Use the freshest whipping cream available, and add sugar (or sweetener of your choice) vanilla, or any other ingredients near the end of whipping; adding them too soon in the process will decrease the amount of volume.

Sugar-Free Angel Food Cake Version:

  • Egg whites-12
  • Cream of Tarter – 1 1/2 tsp
  • Water – 1 Tbs
  • Vanilla extract 1 tsp
  • Sugar alternative (use any granular alternative equivalent to 1-3/4 cups of sugar.
  • Salt 1/2 tsp
  • Cake flour
    On a mixing bowl use a whisk attachment to whip together the egg whites until some peaks begin to form. Then add the cream of tarter, water and vanilla extract. While your ingredients are mixing,you can sift together your flour, sugar alternative, and salt. You will need to sift this very well so I would suggest sifting several times or even using a food processor. Set your oven to 325 at this point and then mix together your ingredients by adding the dry ingredients to the mixing bowl with the wet ingredients. We do not want the oven to be too-preheated which is why we are doing a ‘lazy’ preheat. Now pour the batter into your prepped pan and bake for 60-65 minutes or until golden. (More recipes at thesugarfreediva.com Invert cake while still in pan to cool.  Frost or serve with sugar-free whipped topping, sour cream and or fresh fruit.

Angel Food Cake – Whip Cream & Berries

Angelfood caek with berries on top
If you are really in a hurry, you can bake or buy a plain Angel Food cake, slap on whip cream and top with berries for simple refreshing desert.

Angel Food -Berry Skewers

Berry cake skewers

Even more simple, and fun to eat are skewers with alternating berries and slices of Angel Food cake.
You can also, take out much of the preparation time if you just serve a plain angel food cake, with sides o
berries and whip cream so your guests can help themselves.

Easy Fourth of July Cake – (white cake- blueberries and strawberries)

4th of july cake

2 pints of strawberries
1 box white or yellow cake
1 1/3 C of blueberries
1 tub of whipped topping

  1. Mix up and bake your cake according to the box’s directions.
  2. Slice 1 cup of strawberries, set aside. Halve remaining strawberries, set aside.
  3. Top cake (in pan) with 1 cup sliced strawberries, 1 cup blueberries and all of the whipped topping. Arrange remaining strawberry halves and blueberries on whipped topping to create a flag design.
  4. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Fourth of July Flag Cake – Chocolate with Cream Cheese Frosting – Blueberries and Raspberries
– from Epicurious

chocolate cake

Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 3/4 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional flour for dusting pan
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, softened, plus additional butter for greasing pan
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 large eggs

For the frosting:

  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

For the decorations:

  • 1 1/2 pints raspberries (about 3 cups total)
  • 1/2 pint blueberries (about 1 cup total)
  • Equipment: 13- by 9-inch metal baking pan, stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, pastry bag, star-shaped pastry tip (such as Wilton #2110)

 

Preparation

Make the cake:
Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 350°F.

Butter the bottom and sides of a 13- by 9-inch metal baking pan and line the bottom with wax or parchment paper. Butter the paper and dust the pan with flour, knocking out any excess.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the boiling water, cocoa powder, and instant coffee granules until smooth. Whisk in the milk and vanilla.

In a second medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter with both sugars and beat on medium until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat on medium until fully incorporated. Reduce the speed to low and add the flour and cocoa powder mixtures in batches, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. (The batter may look curdled.) Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top, and bake the cake until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake begins to pull away from the sides of the pan, 35 to 40 minutes. Let the cake cool in the pan on a rack for 10 minutes, then invert the cake onto the rack, remove the wax or parchment paper, and let it cool completely. DO AHEAD: The unfrosted cake, can be cooled, wrapped securely in plastic wrap, and stored at room temperature up to 24 hours, before assembling and serving.

Make the frosting:
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese and butter and beat until creamy and smooth, 3 to 5 minutes. Beat in the vanilla extract. With the mixer on low, add the sifted confectioners’ sugar in three batches, mixing until fully incorporated. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth. Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before assembling the cake.

Assemble and serve the cake:
Frost the top and sides of the cake with 2 1/2 cups of the frosting. Transfer the remaining frosting to a pastry bag fitted with the star tip.

Using a toothpick or small knife, outline a 4 1/2-inch-long by 3 1/2-inch-wide rectangle in the top left corner of the cake. This area will be reserved for blueberries.

Starting with the longer side of the cake that is closest to you, pipe a line of frosting along the top edge of the cake then arrange two horizontal rows of raspberries directly above the line of frosting. Pipe a second line of frosting above the raspberries and arrange two more horizontal rows of raspberries directly above the frosting. Repeat this process two more times, making sure to exclude the top left corner that is reserved for the blueberries. Arrange the blueberries in horizontal rows in the top left corner of the cake.

Slice and serve the cake immediately or store it, covered securely in plastic wrap, in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

4th of July tip for migraineurs…

Woman with water bottle

Avoid your migraine triggers if you can and stay well hydrated.
In case you do run into a migraine trigger or two, keep your MigreLief-NOW on hand at all times and take at the first sign of discomfort.
Have a safe and wonderful holiday!

Migraine and Headache Awareness Month – Experts Weigh In

June is recognized as National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month dedicated to sharing more understanding of these common and debilitating conditions. In case you missed them, here are a few informative articles where experts weighed in on migraine.

How Functional Medicine Treats MigraineAkeso Health Sciences

Migraine – Prominent neurologists weighs inNewsmax

Psychiatric Comorbidities Associated with MigraineThe Clinical Advisor

Migraine in the Emergency Department – When to go to the ED for MigraineThe American Migraine Foundation

From diet to disasters, lifestyle factors can affect headaches and migraineHeadache, The Journal of Head and Face Pain

 

 

What are MigreLief Side Effects?

Q:  Does MigreLief have side-effects?
A:  There are no harmful side effects associated with MigreLief.

  • Riboflavin (B-2) can cause urine to become bright yellow. This is normal and harmless. Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin which means your body does not store it and it is eliminated in the urine.
  • Magnesium – Although rare, some individuals taking magnesium for the first time may experience diarrhea which should stop in a couple of days once the body adjusts. If this occurs, we suggest cutting the dose in half for a few days and work up to the full dose of 1 caplet twice a day with food.  NOTE:  It is generally recommended that all magnesium supplements be taken with food to avoid stomach upset for those who are sensitive to taking magnesium or vitamin supplements.
  • Feverfew – This herb is a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). People who are allergic to ragweed or similar plants may also be allergic to feverfew.
  • If allergic to any of MigreLief’s ingredients, discontinue use.
  • As with most dietary supplements if allergic to any of the ingredients in MigreLief, cease taking it. Like all natural products, herbal medicines, vitamins, and other supplements– stop taking 7 days before any surgery and resume when your doctor says it is OK.

Biggest side-effect of MigreLief… Feeling good!

 

Note:  There is another product in the UK called Migraleve-Pink that is a drug containing codeine. Don’t be confused it you see side-effects associated with this non-MigreLief non-Akeso Health Science product.

The Link Between PTSD and Migraine: Breaking it Down

When people think of PTSD, flashbacks, anxiety, and hypervigilance are usually the first things that come to mind. Not migraines. And while headaches aren’t a textbook sign of the disorder, there’s a strong link between PTSD and migraine. Mounting evidence shows people with PTSD are far more likely to deal with migraine than those who don’t. In this article, we’ll break down the research connecting migraine and PTSD and offer tips for how to manage both conditions.

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

PTSD is a disorder that occurs as a response to a traumatic situation. While trauma comes in all shapes and forms, the most common events to trigger PTSD include:

  • Military combat
  • Natural disasters
  • Serious accidents
  • Childhood or domestic abuse
  • Physical or sexual assault
  • Death of a loved one
  • Serious injuries or health conditions

ptsd and migrianes

 

That said, only 1 in 3 people who go through severe trauma develop PTSD.1 No one knows why some develop the disorder, while others don’t.

Genetics, particularly a family history of mental health problems, likely plays a role. Yet lack of social support may also contribute to PTSD.

While the disorder is commonly associated with war veterans, anyone at any age can develop PTSD.

PTSD symptoms

Typically, symptoms arise within three months after being exposed to a traumatic event. But in some cases, symptoms may not emerge until years later.

Symptoms of PTSD include:

  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts reliving the traumatic event
  • Avoiding places, objects, or situations that may trigger distressing memories
  • Feeling guarded, on edge, or easily startled
  • Having irritable or angry outbursts
  • Distorted thoughts about oneself
  • Feelings of guilt, shame, or inability to feel positive emotions
  • Reckless or destructive behavior
  • Trouble falling or staying asleep

Due to the nature of PTSD, it’s no surprise that depression and anxiety are common comorbidities. Yet, PTSD can impact your physical health as well. Patients with PTSD face a greater risk of arthritis, heart problems, and digestive disorders, such as GERD.2 But pain often goes hand in hand with PTSD as well. For example, in one study of people with chronic low back pain, 51% also had PTSD symptoms.3 Headaches are also a common complaint in those with PTSD.4

The Relationship Between PTSD and Migraine

There is an undeniable link between PTSD and migraine. It’s estimated that roughly 8% of the population has PTSD. Yet the frequency of PTSD is much greater in those with migraine.

One study from the journal Headache found that 22.4% of people with episodic migraine had symptoms of PTSD.5 The results with chronic migraine were even more dramatic, with 30.3% of patients having signs of PTSD.

Another study examined the prevalence of PTSD among patients with tension headaches or chronic migraine. Out of 60 healthy control patients, five had PTSD (8%).6 Compare that to 40% of migraine patients and 13.3% of patients with tension headaches.

What’s more, childhood trauma and migraines often go hand in hand. Research shows migraine is more common in people with a history of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse than in the general population.7

Clearly, there’s a bidirectional link between the two conditions. But the mechanisms connecting the two aren’t entirely understood.

Does PTSD Cause Migraine?

For now, it’s unclear. One study found that 69% of episodic migraine patients had PTSD symptoms before the onset of their migraines.8 This suggests PTSD may trigger migraine, yet further research is needed to understand the link. About 80% of people with migraine report stress as a common trigger.9 And since PTSD involves living in a state of hyperarousal, the connection makes sense.

PTSD can cause your nervous system to stay stuck in ‘fight or flight’ mode. Staying in the stress zone for too long may cause abnormal activity of the trigeminal nerve, which is linked with migraine10 Stress also creates chronic inflammation, which may alter pain perception. Yet migraine may trigger PTSD symptoms as well. Living with migraine presents plenty of stressors. Migraine episodes can take a toll on work, relationships, and social life. These challenges may exacerbate symptoms of PTSD, creating a vicious cycle.

Managing PTSD with Migraine

Both PTSD and migraine are complex conditions. So treatment involves a comprehensive approach. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and medications are typically the recommended treatments.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is shown to be particularly helpful for PTSD patients with migraine. CBT works to shift dysfunctional thought patterns that may be contributing to stress and anxiety. CBT can also help you learn coping strategies for managing both conditions.

Shifting lifestyle habits can also help ease symptoms of both disorders. Meditation, mindfulness, and breathing exercises can all help calm the nervous system and ease stress.

Antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are often prescribed for PTSD patients as well. These meds may help lessen the severity of symptoms. Yet, these drugs often come with a long list of side effects.

Luckily, there are also natural options for calming an overactive stress response. Nutritional support can help address any underlying imbalances that may stir up anxiety or migraine. We carry two formulas that may offer relief:

Calm and Clever includes herbs and nutrients that reduce cortisol, helping to ease anxiety and lower the stress response.
Migrelief contains a triple shot of nutritional support for migraine sufferers, with magnesium, riboflavin, and Puracol® feverfew. For fast-acting neurological comfort for both migraine or headache sufferers, MigreLief-NOW (rescue formula) can  make a big difference.  MigreLief has been recommended by neurologists and headache specialists for over 25 years.

Akeso Health Sciences offers a 20% discount to all military personnel year-round. Click here to claim your discount code.

Takeaways

The link between PTSD and migraine is clear. Migraine is much more common in people with PTSD – and vice versa. Both disorders involve an overactive stress response. But the mechanisms behind the connection are unknown for now.

While both conditions are complex, coping strategies may help manage symptoms. Relaxation techniques, therapy, and nutritional support can help ease stress and anxiety, which may offer symptom relief.

10 Migraine Facts & Statistics that Everyone Needs to Know

Migraine is the second leading cause of disability in the United States and the third most prevalent illness in the world. For those of us who experience these debilitating symptoms, we are well aware of the toll they can take on our social life, productivity, and overall well-being. But despite being so common, migraines are also incredibly misunderstood.

Whether you are a recurrent migraine sufferer, or know someone who is, we’ve put together a list of some of the most eye-opening facts and statistics to help you get a clearer picture of this condition and put to rest some of the most common misconceptions surrounding this disabling disorder.

Migraine Facts & Stats

A Debilitating Disease

For folks who’ve never suffered through a blinding migraine, it’s easy to think that it’s “just a bad headache.” But severe head pain is just a symptom of migraine, which is, in fact, a neurological disease with a wide range of symptoms and severity.

As far as health conditions go, migraine is more prevalent than asthma and diabetes combined, affecting over one billion women, men, and children worldwide. Although symptoms vary from person to person, some of the most common ones include:

  • A throbbing or pounding headache, usually one-sided, of varying intensity. Sometimes the pain may be hard to endure or even unbearable. Children often have pain on both sides of head.
  • Temporary perceptual disturbances, known as auras, such as flashing lights, trouble speaking, vertigo, brain fog, and more, that precede the actual migraine attack
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Mood swings
  • Frequent yawning
  • Depression
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Food cravings

migraine facts

Migraine and Women

Three in every four migraine sufferers are women, and more than 25% of women have had at least one migraine. But why? Most factors that trigger these disabling headaches are still unknown, but scientists have found clear links between hormonal fluctuations and the likelihood of developing a migraine.

The main culprit, or so it seems, is estrogen: women’s primary sex hormone. A woman’s menstrual cycle can be divided into two phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Right after ovulation, at the beginning of the luteal phase, estrogen levels drop precipitously, slowly rising up again at the beginning of the following cycle in preparation for ovulation.

This quick drop of estrogen, researchers believe, may be responsible for migraines and so-called menstrual headaches in women of reproductive age. In fact, research suggests that migraines tend to improve, and often even disappear entirely, after menopause when estrogen and other hormone levels stop fluctuating.

The Economic Burden of Migraines

Like all disabling health conditions, migraines pose a significant economic burden for both the sufferer and society at large. The Migraine Research Foundation estimates that more than 90% of people who suffer from migraines are unable to function normally during an attack. That means that every day, tens of thousands of individuals have to miss work or school as a direct consequence of migraines. In addition, in households with at least one migraine sufferer, healthcare costs are estimated to be up to 70 percent higher.

According to the Journal of Managed Care, the economic impact of migraines in the United States is estimated to be around $11 billion in direct costs (healthcare services) and $11 billion in indirect costs (short and long-term disability, time off work, loss of productivity).

A Family Affair

Genetics play a huge role in migraines. Research shows that although environmental factors can cause migraine, there are certain genetic variations that can significantly increase a person’s risk of developing this neurological condition. In fact, according to the American Migraine Foundation, having one parent with migraine increases the risk of developing migraine by 50%, and if both parents have migraine the risk increases to 75%.

Babies and Migraine

Many people are surprised to learn that babies and toddlers can get migraines too, although there are some key differences in symptoms, especially in children younger than six years old. Some of the most notable differences include:

  • Abdominal symptoms – when young children experience migraine, they often do so in the form of abdominal migraine, which is a type of headache-less migraine marked by abdominal pain. The pain associated with abdominal migraine is usually located in the middle of the belly, around the navel. It may feel like soreness or a dull ache of moderate to severe intensity. Some children also experience nausea, vomiting, a pale appearance, and/or sensitivity to light and sound.
  • Attacks are often less frequent than in adults
  • Migraine headache episodes tend to be shorter (30 minutes to 48 hours)
  • Common precursors and symptoms of child migraine; cyclical vomiting, abdominal pain, vertigo, and sensitivity to light
  • Child migraine is often under-diagnosed by doctors, possibly due to the prominence of non-headache symptoms
children's migraine

Do your kids suffer from migraine?

Overlapping Conditions

For a lot of people, migraine is also associated with other illnesses, especially mental health conditions. Depression is a particularly common overlapping condition; according to the American Migraine Foundation, a person suffering from episodic migraine (headache 14 days or fewer each month), has a 20% chance of developing depression. Someone with chronic migraine (more than 15 headaches per month) has a 30 to 50% chance of depression and an even greater likelihood of having generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or PTSD.

Migraine is also comorbid with a number of pain disorders, including fibromyalgia and arthritis. In addition, severe head pain, which is one of the hallmarks of migraine, is associated with a higher risk of hypertension, high cholesterol, and coronary heart disease. Nearly 35% of chronic migraine sufferers are also diagnosed with hypertension.

ER Visits

Every 10 seconds, someone in the United States goes to the emergency room (ER) with excruciating head pain. Yearly, 1.2 million hospital visits are for migraine attacks. Some people experience an attack once or twice a month, but more than 4 million people experience chronic daily migraines and at least 15 migraines per month.  Given the pain and symptoms (such as uncontrolled vomiting) associated with severe migraine headaches, ER doctors often administer medications intravenously and focus on rehydrating the person to avoid more serious issues. Many people who go to the ER with a migraine experience such disabling and painful symptoms that they believe they’re having a stroke.

 

emergency room

Endless Triggers

A trigger is something that a person does, or that happens to them, that can result in developing a migraine attack. Experts have identified hundreds of potential migraine triggers, including foods, activities, weather changes, lifestyle habits, and more. These are a few of the most common triggers:

  • Stress
  • Too little or too much sleep
  • Hormonal changes
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Dehydration
  • Foods containing additives, MSG, and/or histamines
  • Medication overuse
  • Physical activity
  • Certain smells
  • Intense light or sounds
  • Migraine without headache?

Similar to abdominal migraines, silent migraines, also known as acephalgic migraines, are a type of migraine that doesn’t cause headache pain. Instead, a person experiencing a silent migraine may experience a range of symptoms, including visual disturbances, nausea, vomiting, light and sound sensitivity, and dizziness. These symptoms can be just as debilitating as traditional migraine headaches and can last for hours or even days. Silent migraines are thought to be caused by changes in brain activity and blood flow, and can be triggered by many of the same factors as regular migraines. Ocular and Visual migraines are a type of silent migraine.

Different Types of Migraine

There are many different types of migraines, each with its own unique symptoms and management strategies. The most common type is migraine with aura, which is characterized by sensory disturbances and other symptoms, such as trouble speaking. Migraines without aura, on the other hand, don’t have visual disturbances but do still cause intense head pain along with other symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, and light and sound sensitivity.

Other types include chronic migraine; vestibular migraines, which feature vertigo or balance problems); hemiplegic migraines, which can cause temporary paralysis on one side of the body; menstrual migraines; retinal migraines; and more.

To Wrap Things Up

Migraine is a complex and debilitating neurological condition that affects more than a billion people worldwide. A migraine is not just a bad headache, but a serious health issue that can have significant impacts on a person’s quality of life and economic status. Its overlapping conditions, particularly those related to mental health, further compound the burden of living with this disabling condition.  There are many effective options for migraine sufferers but not everything works for everyone.

Migraine and Mental Health: What’s the Link? Plus 5 Tips for Both

If you suffer from migraine, you know firsthand that it can do a number on your mental health. Migraine attacks can reduce your quality of life and even cause you to put your life on hold. It’s hard to get a handle on your mental health when you’re fearing your next migraine attack nonstop.

Over time this can wear you down physically, mentally, and emotionally. No wonder migraine and mental health issues often go hand in hand! This article breaks down the data linking migraine and mental health issues and offers six helpful tips for managing them both.

What’s the Relationship Between Migraine and Mental Health?

There is a bidirectional relationship between migraine and mental health – meaning one affects the other. A survey of 6,000 adults found that people with migraine are twice as likely to struggle with mental health problems. (1)

So, let’s delve a little deeper into what the data has to say:

Depression and Migraine

People with migraine are five times more likely to experience depression. (2) And the risk of depression rises with more frequent attacks. One study found that chronic migraine sufferers were twice as likely to deal with depression as those with episodic migraine. (3)

depression

Which isn’t all that surprising. Migraine attacks can be lonely. You’re often hunkered down in a dark, quiet room, waiting for the pain to pass. Plus, migraine attacks may leave you missing out on fun social gatherings or quality time with family.

You might feel racked with guilt every time you have to cancel plans last minute. Or you might feel like no one understands your migraine struggles. This only intensifies feelings of depression and sadness.

Anxiety and Migraine

Depression is common for people with migraine, but anxiety is even more pronounced. One study found that people with migraine were 25 times more likely to feel anxiety than those who live migraine-free. What’s more, migraine patients were also 49 times more likely to deal with chronic worrying. (4)

Which makes total sense – migraine sufferers often live in constant anxiety about when the next attack might strike. Knowing that you may have to hit the pause button on your life at any time can fuel a steady stream of anxiety.

Bipolar Disorder and Migraine

Comorbid bipolar disorder and migraine have a profound connection. Only about 12% of the population suffers from migraine. Yet, one meta-analysis found that 32% of people with Bipolar I and 54% with Bipolar II disorder experience migraine. (5)

Clearly, migraine and mental health are inextricably linked. But the question is – why? Does migraine cause mental illness? Or is it the other way around?

While there’s no clear answer, scientists do have some theories.

What Causes Migraine?

Scientists haven’t nailed down the exact cause of migraine. But it’s thought to be a combo of genetics and abnormal brain activity.

In the past, migraine was thought to be caused by problems with blood flow to the brain. But today, many scientists think it’s due to overactive nerve cells triggering your trigeminal nerve.

Your trigeminal nerve contains receptors for serotonin. You might know serotonin as the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter often low in people with depression and anxiety. But it’s also needed for communication between nerve cells.

When serotonin runs high, your blood vessels shrink. But when it runs low, your blood vessels swell, which can lead to pain. That’s why when serotonin gets out of whack, it can disrupt your migraine and mental health.

Hormones are also likely part of the migraine puzzle. Changes in estrogen impact serotonin levels and can trigger migraine attacks. This is why women are three times more likely to suffer from migraine than men.

And then, of course, there are triggers that can spur on a migraine attack. Some triggers are environmental, such as strong scents, bright lights, or weather changes. Migraines can also be set off by lifestyle factors such as stress, poor sleep, and an unhealthy diet.

This is why practicing self-care is critical for anyone dealing with migraine.

How to Manage Your Migraine and Mental Health Naturally

Migraine attacks are unpredictable and can make you feel like your body is out of your control.

Yet, you have more power than you think. When it comes to migraine, prevention is where the power lies.

So here are some healthy lifestyle habits that can help tame migraine and benefit your mental health:

Exercise

Regular exercise relieves stress, improves sleep, and releases endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers. Studies show people who exercise regularly are less likely to experience depression and anxiety. (6)

Being sedentary is also linked with increased migraine frequency. (7) So get your body moving! Just be sure not to overdo it. Intense exercise can trigger migraine attacks in some people.

Not sure where to start? Check out this article for helpful tips on the best exercises for migraine.

Stress Relief

Stress is the most common migraine trigger. So getting your stress in check is key to managing your migraine and mental health.

There are tons of stress-busting techniques you can try. Here are a few:

  • Meditation trains you to be mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without identifying with them. Over time this can help you bust out of negative thought loops before they take hold. Research shows meditation increases gray matter in the brain, which is reduced in people with migraine. (8, 9) Nowadays, there are several handy apps like Calm and Headspace that can teach you how to meditate.

meditate

  • Yoga is proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. (10) Its powerful combo of deep breathing and muscle relaxation relieves stress, making it the perfect migraine prevention tool. These five yoga poses work particularly well for migraine relief.
  • Stretching can relieve tension in your neck and muscles if yoga isn’t your thing. Done regularly, they can prevent muscle tension from building up. The next time you need to relax and unwind, try out these stretches.
  • Deep breathing calms your nervous system to keep stress at bay. And best of all, you can practice it anywhere! So the next you feel stress creeping up, whether you’re sitting in traffic or lying in bed amid an attack, take some slow deep belly breaths. Here’s a video that can help guide the way:

Natural Treatment Options

There are many pharmaceutical options available to treat migraine. Unfortunately, they often come with a long list of side effects. Luckily, there are several natural treatment options that can help you manage your migraine and mental well-being.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy trains you to reframe unhelpful thought patterns that may be amplifying feelings of depression or anxiety. Research shows CBT effectively treats a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, generalized anxiety, agoraphobia, social phobia, PTSD, and panic disorder. (11)

Yet cognitive behavioral therapy benefits migraine as well. Research shows it can reduce migraine frequency and intensity. (12) To find a therapist who practices CBT, click here.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback involves attaching electrodes to your body to track how you respond to stress. This technique is typically done via an electromyogram (EMG) feedback device. Over time, biofeedback trains your body to relax when under stress. Studies show biofeedback can reduce the duration and intensity of migraine pain. (13)

Nutritional Support

Several nutrients and herbs can offer powerful support for your mental health and migraine management. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you with these condition-specific formulas:

  • Migrelief contains a potent combo of riboflavin, magnesium, and Puracol feverfew. It’s been offering targeted nutritional support for migraine sufferers for over 25 years.

  • Resilient Mood promotes a positive mental outlook with its medley of Rhodiola, 5-HTP, saffron, and methylfolate. It helps balance your feel-good hormones and provides adaptogenic support to relieve stress.

  • Calm and Clever helps calm anxiety and promotes positive mood and sleep by reducing your stress hormone cortisol.
Takeaways

Migraine and mental health impact one another – that much is clear. Migraine sufferers are more likely to deal with depression, anxiety, and even bipolar disorder. But feelings of stress and anxiety can trigger migraine attacks too.

However, you’re not powerless. Prevention is powerful stuff. Practicing healthy lifestyle habits can lessen migraine intensity and even prevent future attacks. And natural treatment options can offer extra support to manage both your migraine and mental health.

The Link Between Migraine and ADHD: Breaking it Down

Living with migraine is tough. But stack ADHD on top it, and it takes those challenges to a whole new level.

And believe it or not, this combo is more common than you’d think. Research shows there’s a connection between migraine and ADHD. People with migraine are more likely to have ADHD – and vice versa.

This article breaks down what the science has to say about this link and offer tips and tools for treating ADHD and migraine.

ADHD and Migraine: What’s the Relationship?

On the surface, migraine and ADHD may seem to have little in common. Besides both being health conditions that severely disrupt your life.

But studies have found the two are comorbid disorders – in adults and children.

One 2011 study found that migraine is far more common among adults with ADHD. In the study:

  • Men with ADHD were over twice as likely to have migraine (22.5% vs. 10.7%)
  • The difference was significant for women as well (34.4% vs. 24.9%)

link between migraine and adhd

 

Another 2018 study analyzed data from 26,456 participants from the Danish Blood Donor study. They too found a strong association between migraine and ADHD.

Unlike the previous study, the risk of ADHD and migraine was more pronounced in females. They also found that the risk increased with age, peaking in the early 50s.

The migraine-ADHD comorbidity was even more profound for adults with migraine with aura.

But link rings true for children as well.  One study of 5,671 children found that ADHD is far more prevalent in children with migraine. What’s more, as migraine frequency increased, so did ADHD risk.

So clearly, the two conditions are connected. Yet, the whys aren’t fully understood.

 

Can ADHD Cause Migraines?

Researchers aren’t sure. Some believe the comorbidity is related to genetic and environmental factors. This suggests that certain people may simply be susceptible to both conditions.

But many other theories try to explain their connection as well. Here are a few:

Dopamine dysfunction

Some research suggests that ADHD may be due to dopamine dysfunction. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in memory, mood, attention, and much more.

Known as a ‘feel good hormone’ it plays a part in the reward centers of your brain. In short, it helps you feel happy and keeps your motivation up. So when dopamine goes awry, it can present challenges.

And it turns out, dopamine may play a role in migraine as well. There is evidence that migraine symptoms may be triggered by changes in dopamine.

One study found that migraineurs tend to have normal dopamine levels between migraine attacks. Yet, they often fall right before an attack.

While dopamine may explain part of the migraine-ADHD connection, it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

Mood disorder comorbidity

People with migraine and ADHD are both at increased risk of having anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. This suggests that people with both disorders may share some genetic predispositions.

The stress connection

Living with ADHD or migraine is stressful. Time management and attention issues may cause people with ADHD to fall behind at school or work. Impulsivity may also lead those with ADHD to behaviors they regret later.

Headaches only exacerbate attention and impulsivity issues. All this adds an extra layer of stress – which is the most common migraine trigger.

 

Can ADHD Meds Make Migraines Worse?

Some wonder whether ADHD meds may set migraine off or aggravate existing symptoms.

Stimulants, such as Adderall or Ritalin, are the most common type of ADHD medication. These meds work by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.

Headaches are a common side effect of starting treatment. Usually, these headaches wane as your body adjusts. That said, ADHD meds may cause other symptoms that trigger migraine.

For example, loss of appetite is one of the most common side effects of stimulants. In fact, it happens for 80% of people. And for many, skipping meals can trigger migraine attacks.

Stimulants can also rev you up and make it more difficult to sleep. And since lack of sleep is a common migraine trigger, this can present problems.

 

How Do You Treat Migraine with ADHD?

Many medications are available for treating both migraine and ADHD. But as mentioned, these meds often come with a long list of side effects, which may compound problems.

These drugs serve a purpose. But often the path of least resistance is to start with a more natural approach.

So here are a few tips and tools that can help manage symptoms of migraine, whether you have ADHD or not.

Know your triggers

Migraine can be triggered by many environmental and lifestyle factors, including:

  • Stress
  • Dehydration
  • Skipping meals
  • Hormonal changes
  • Lack of sleep
  • Alcohol or caffeine
  • Bright lights
  • Intense exercise
  • Loud noises
  • Weather changes
  • Certain foods such as chocolate, aged cheeses, deli meats, or foods with MSG or aspartame

Everyone’s migraine triggers are unique. So to keep migraine at bay, knowing your own triggers is key.

One simple way to pinpoint your triggers is to keep a migraine journal. (Download our FREE migraine diary here.) Or if you find applications easier to use, Migraine Buddy is a good one.

This can help you track your symptoms and connect the dots to any troublesome triggers. That way you can avoid these things to reduce future attacks.

 

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Many simple lifestyle habits benefit both ADHD and migraine. Adding these habits to your daily routine may ease symptoms and even prevent future migraine attacks from occurring.

Here are some healthy lifestyle habits that can help:

  • Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Poor sleep can trigger migraine attacks and aggravate ADHD symptoms. So practice good sleep hygiene. Limit screen time before bed, give yourself time to wind down, and sleep in a dark, quiet room. And don’t be afraid to get nutritional support if needed.

adhd and migraine

  • Eat a healthy diet. Food additives and artificial colors in processed foods can worsen ADHD symptoms. So stick to a wholesome diet filled with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean protein. And if you have migraine, keep your trigger foods off the menu.
  • Manage stress. As mentioned, stress is the #1 migraine trigger. And living with ADHD or migraine presents mountains of stress. So keep a lid on stress by setting aside time for daily relaxation – whether that’s yoga, meditation, or playing with a pet.
  • Exercise regularly. Physical movement is a great way to boost your mood and burn off stress. But it also helps your brain! Research shows exercise improves memory and executive functioning and even promotes dopamine release. Just don’t overdo it, as intense exercise can trigger migraine for some.

Get nutritional support

Migraine and ADHD are both linked with certain nutritional deficiencies. Children with ADHD often have lower levels of vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and iron. Luckily, research shows supplementing with these nutrients can improve emotional and behavioral problems that come with ADHD.

Migraineurs are often low in vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and magnesium. Evidence reveals supplementing with these nutrients may serve as a preventative treatment for migraine.

Fortunately, we offer nutritional formulas tailor-made for migraine and ADHD sufferers:

  • Migrelief includes magnesium, riboflavin, and Puracol feverfew, for a triple shot of targeted nutritional migraine support.
  • Attentivite comes in customized AM/PM formulas to improve focus, and support deep, restorative sleep.

 

Visit our shop here to check out all our migraine nutritional formulas and other condition-specific supplements.

 

Sources

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225610/pdf/406_2011_Article_203.pdf
  2. https://bmcneurol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12883-018-1149-6
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28587507/
  4. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/184547
  5. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0333102420929023
  6. https://news.umich.edu/brain-scans-show-dopamine-levels-fall-during-migraine-attacks/
  7. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/15622970109026801
  8. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11766-adhd-medication
  9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040528/
  10. https://migrainetrust.org/live-with-migraine/healthcare/treatments/supplements/

 

 

Interictal Migraine Phase: The ‘In Between State’

There’s a misconception that symptoms disappear between migraine attacks. But that’s not always the case. Migraine is not just a headache disorder. It’s a complex neurological disease where symptoms occur in phases.

While headaches are the hallmark symptom of migraine, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Many people with migraine experience symptoms between attacks. This is known as the interictal migraine phase.

In this article, we’ll cover the symptoms of interictal migraine and how they can help you manage future migraine attacks.

What is Interictal Migraine?

Interictal migraine is commonly called the ‘between headache state.’ It’s the phase of a migraine cycle where no headaches occur.

But being headache-free doesn’t always mean being symptom-free. Many experience symptoms before and after a migraine attack.

To quickly recap, here are the four phases of a migraine:

  • Prodrome (or premonitory) phase: Roughly 60% of people with migraine have symptoms before the headache sets in. This usually happens between two to 48 hours before the pain begins.
  • Aura: Around 25% of migraineurs experience the aura phase. This causes sensory disturbances such as flickering lights, blind spots, numbness, or tingling. Aura can last anywhere between a few minutes to a couple of hours.
  • Attack (or headache): This phase is marked by throbbing pain that usually occurs on one side of the head. Migraine attacks can last up to 72 hours and vary from mild to debilitating.
  • Postdrome phase: Also known as a ‘migraine hangover,’ this is the period after a migraine attack ends.

So in a sense, interictal migraine refers to any non-headache symptoms that pop up outside of a migraine attack. This may occur in the prodrome, aura, or postdrome phases.

migraine phases

Why Do Symptoms Occur Between Migraine Attacks?

It’s tough to say. Some believe it’s because people with migraine have brains that are inherently different.

For example, migraine sufferers tend to be hypersensitive to pain during and between migraine attacks. In fact, 42% of people with migraine experience hypersensitivity between headaches.

Other research shows that people with migraine tend to have elevated levels of calcium gene-related peptide (CGRP) outside of migraine attacks. CGRP is a protein that causes inflammation and is involved in pain transmission.

So if you have chronic migraine, there’s a lot going on under the surface even when you’re headache-free.

Interictal Migraine Symptoms

Many physical and psychological symptoms may occur in the interictal phase between headaches. These include:

  • Mood changes such as anxiety, depression, and worry
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Food cravings
  • Neck pain
  • Yawning
  • Sensitivity to lights, sounds, and smells
  • Visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzags, or blind spots

Some may not even realize their symptoms are related to migraine and brush them off. But often these symptoms are a red flag a migraine is on its way.

This can cause many chronic migraine sufferers to feel constantly ‘on edge,’ wondering when the next attack will strike. This anxiety can greatly interfere with well-being between migraine attacks. This is known as interictal burden.

Interictal burden can disrupt work, school, family, and social life. And for some, it leads to avoidance behaviors. Social plans may be canceled or not made at all in anticipation of the next attack. Others may feel like they’re constantly playing catch-up with work and school due to previous attacks.

migraines disrupting social life

So, while the interictal phase may be free of headaches – it’s not free of stress. Luckily, interictal symptoms can offer clues to help you prevent and manage future migraine attacks.

Using Interictal Symptoms to Help Manage Migraines

Many migraine experts recommend tracking symptoms to ease interictal anxiety. Keeping track of symptoms such as neck pain, nausea, and fatigue can help you understand your migraine cycle better. But it can also help you pinpoint the triggers that brought on symptoms.

The easiest way to do this is to use a migraine diary (download one for free here). Note any symptoms that occur, as they may be warning signs a migraine is coming. This can help you plan ahead and know when to try preventative treatments.

Prevention could be as simple as resting, avoiding screens, drinking more water, or practicing deep breathing to ease stress.

Nutritional support may also help. In particular, magnesium, riboflavin, and feverfew are all proven to benefit those with migraine.

Living with migraine isn’t easy. But knowledge is power. Understanding your interictal symptoms can help you manage your migraine better, which may ease future attacks.

 

References:

  1. https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10194-015-0566-9
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554611/
  3. https://thejournalofheadacheandpain.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10194-017-0824-0
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23975872/
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4187032/
  6. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2022.1032103/full

 

 

9 Health Conditions Associated with Migraines

There’s no question about it: migraines can be extremely painful and debilitating. Unfortunately, they can be even more challenging when a migraine sufferer has other health conditions which can also exacerbate their tendency to migraine and headaches. Migraines are associated with many other disorders including neurological and psychiatric disorders. When migraine occurs together with other illnesses at a greater coincidental rate than is seen in the general population, the occurrences are called “comorbidities”.  A comorbid illness can create challenges when developing treatment strategies, especially for chronic migraine sufferers. Some treatments may be relatively contraindicated (not advised as a course of treatment due to potential harm) in individuals who have more than one disease.

Coexisting Conditions vs. Comorbidity

When two conditions are found in the same person but the incidence is not greater than what is seen in the general population, these are referred to as coexisting conditions. For example, a patient may have migraine and asthma. There is no evidence suggesting that these two conditions exist in a single patient more frequently than these conditions exist in individual patients in the general population. In contrast, migraine and depression appear to be comorbid because they occur together more often than they occur in individual patients in the general population.

  • Insomnia
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stroke
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypertension
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

These illnesses are now recognized as being common migraine comorbidities.

Insomnia

Migraines and insomnia have a two-way relationship; poor sleep can trigger migraines, and migraines definitely can keep you from getting a good night’s sleep. It is estimated that one in four people have insomnia. Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, waking out repeatedly throughout the night, and not having a restful sleep. People with insomnia tend to get less than six hours of sleep.

Scientists believe that one of the reasons why sleep deprivation is so closely related to migraines has to do with pain processing. A research study published recently in the Journal of Neuroscience looked at the relationship between sleep and pain.

Researchers measured the brain activity and pain thresholds of 25 participants during one night of sound sleep and one sleep-deprived night. Their results showed that participants’ pain threshold was significantly lower when they were sleep-deprived than when they had restful sleep.  Migraine sufferers should pay close attention to their sleep habits and if that isn’t enough, consider nutritional supplements for extra support.  Melatonin, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Glycine, Valerian Root, Zizyphus Jujube, and Hops are all well-known supplements for establishing healthy sleep patterns.

insomnia

Stroke

A stroke happens when there is a sudden interruption in the blood flow to the brain, depriving it of the oxygen and nutrients that it needs to survive. When strokes are not caught in time, it can cause severe tissue damage and disability. Strokes are the fifth cause of death and the leading cause of disability in the United States.

There is not enough evidence to suggest that migraines cause strokes. However, several research studies have found connections between strokes and aura – the sensory symptoms that sometimes precede migraines. According to an investigation conducted by the American Stroke Association, individuals who have migraines with aura are 2.4 more likely to have a stroke than those without aura.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy, also called seizure disorder, is a neurological condition that causes seizures that originate in the brain. A person is typically diagnosed with epilepsy after they’ve had more than two unprovoked seizures.

Just like migraines, abnormal activities in the brain cause seizures. However, not everybody who suffers from migraines will necessarily develop seizures and vice versa. EEG scans have shown that the brain activity that during a migraine is similar to the activity that occurs during a seizure, but researchers are still trying to make sense of out that connection.

Heart Disease

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is an umbrella term for a cluster of conditions that affect the health of the heart. Some of the conditions that fall under the heart disease group include:

  • Atherosclerosis
  • Arrhythmia
  • Myocardial infarction
  • Angina
  • Congenital heart defects
  • Heart infections

Heart disease and migraines do not have a comorbid relationship however, research suggests that migraines with aura increase the risk of developing heart disease, particularly within the first year of diagnosis. People with migraines also tend to have heart disease-related risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and an irregular heartbeat.

Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and depression are the two most common mental health issues and are comorbid with migraine. In the United States, it is estimated that more than 18% of the population suffers from at least one type of anxiety, 6% from depression, and even more in the case of migraine sufferers.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, as many as 40% of people with migraines suffer from depression. Other mental health problems that are more prevalent among migraine sufferers are generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, agoraphobia, and substance abuse.

 

anxiety and migraine

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine (aka the colon). IBS causes abdominal cramping, constipation and/or diarrhea, gas, and bloating. Though the cause of IBS is not known, doctors believe that faulty communications between the gastrointestinal tract (GI) and the brain may play an important role.

It is a well-known fact that nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues are common symptoms of migraine attacks. In fact, there is a type of migraine without headaches, called abdominal migraine, which occurs mostly in children but is now being diagnosed more frequently in adults. Now, recent studies have also discovered that people (especially women) who have IBS are more likely to suffer from migraines.

Fibromyalgia

Research studies show that there is a bidirectional relationship between migraines and fibromyalgia (FM). That means that in some cases, FM has been observed to trigger migraines and in others, migraines seem to provoke FM. It is estimated that between 45 and 80 percent of patients with FM suffer from chronic migraines and 18 to 35% of chronic migraine sufferers also suffer with fibromyalgia. According to a recent study in published in the British Medical Journal, fibromyalgia had stronger predictive power for the onset of migraine than did migraine for the onset of fibromyalgia.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Restless legs syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease), causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms commonly occur in the late afternoon and are often most severe at night when a person is resting. Symptoms are often worse at night making it difficult to fall asleep or return to sleep after waking up. Moving the legs or walking typically relieves the discomfort but the sensations often recur once the movement stops. Many clinical studies and recent meta-analyses of these studies have revealed a higher prevalence of RLS in patients with migraine compared to individuals without migraine.  Several studies reported that RLS  is 17.3–34 % higher in patients with migraine. Migraine patients who also had RLS were more likely to have photophobia, phonophobia, exacerbation due to physical activities, vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus, and neck pain.

The Comorbidity and Coexisting Condition Challenge

If you’ve been diagnosed with a physical and/or mental health condition, keep good records of the care that you receive from various professionals, so that each can be aware of the various treatments you are receiving and various therapies you are using. It is important to avoid negative drug interactions. Also, the treatments that benefit one condition may be detrimental for another.

If possible, prevent comorbid conditions from taking hold by addressing early symptoms as soon as possible. For example, if social anxiety disorder is left untreated for a long time, it may lead to depression and substance abuse. Don’t forget that good nutrition, filling nutritional gaps with dietary supplements and proper sleep goes a long way toward maintaining good health and longevity.

 

Better Sleep Patterns Can Decrease Migraines

For too many migraine sufferers, a good night’s sleep every night is an impossible dream.

A study done at the University of North Carolina by sleep specialist, Dr. Anne Calhoun found that by improving sleeping habits, women decreased their headache frequency by 29% and the intensity of the migraines they did get, by 40%.

When the number of migraine days per month is under 15, the patient is diagnosed with episodic migraine. If 15 or more per month, the patient is considered to have chronic migraines.

The women in this study originally had episodic migraines that over a course of years converted to chronic migraines.  (This is called transformed migraine- i.e., transformed from episodic to chronic).

It is believed that transformed migraines can come about due to multiple factors like poor sleep habits and/or pain killing medication over-use.

 

sleeping issues in women

 

86% of the women in the study reported non-restorative sleep. In simple terms this means they still felt tired when they awoke in the morning. 80% of them watched TV or read in bed.  70% awakened between 1-6 times a night to urinate.

The women were instructed to:

  • Move dinnertime to 4 hours before bedtime.
  • Limit fluids taken 2 hours before bedtime.
  • Allow for 8 hours of sleep and not to vary their bedtimes more than 30 minutes.
  • Not to listen to music, read, or watch TV in bed.
  • Not to over-use migraine medications.
  • Stop taking naps (even though they were tired from poor sleep)

Improvements in migraine frequency happened rather quickly after implementing the “better” sleeping habits. Within a month and a half, 35% of the group reported fewer migraines.

By the end of 3 months 58% of the women who implemented the recommended sleep changes went back to being only episodic sufferers.

The good news is that these recommendations work and that all except one of the women who implemented ALL of the recommendations reverted to being episodic from chronic.

The bad news is that women who kept three or more of the bad sleep habits did not improve.

Discipline is important. Implement all of the recommended sleep changes, they are really not that hard.

What may also prove to be very exciting is to implement these sleep habit changes and combine them with doing 3-4 days a week of moderate exercise (i.e. brisk walking, moderate weight-resistance with dumb bells). Recent studies have shown that moderate exercise 3-4 days a week can prevent migraines as well as a prescription medication.

Need extra help falling asleep?

For those of you who need more intensive support with sleep challenges, I formulated a comprehensive sleep supplement called Sleep All Night for falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer and reaching the deep sleep stage where much of the body and mind healing and reset occurs.

Establishing healthy sleep patterns is the most powerful tool you have to maintain good health and extend your life. Learn more. And if you are a migraine sufferer, don’t forget to take your MigreLief!

 

I hope you find these suggestions useful and life changing.

To the best of health,

Curt Hendrix, MS, CCN, CNS

 

 

The Link Between Migraine and Neck Pain

For many chronic headache sufferers, migraines and neck pain are like birds of a feather, with some people experiencing neck stiffness and soreness before a migraine, and others struggling with neck pain and tension during or after an attack.

But is neck pain a result of migraines, or could neck problems actually be causing your headaches? In this article, we’ll explore the connection between neck pain and migraine headaches, the potential causes for each of these issues, when to seek advice from a medical professional, and ways to get relief.

Is a Stiff Neck a Symptom of Migraine?

Yes, a stiff neck is a very frequent symptom of migraines and other types of headaches. In fact, many people with chronic migraines experience persistent neck and shoulder pain before, during, and after migraine attacks. Moreover, 82% of female migraineurs report migraine and neck pain before their period.

Although the exact cause of migraines is unknown, they are thought to be the result of abnormal waves of activity within brain and nervous system cells, particularly the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve is the largest and most complex of the twelve cranial nerves, and its main function involves transmitting sensory (pain, touch, and temperature) information to the face and jaw area.

Evidence shows that the trigeminal nerve plays a major role in attacks for almost all migraine sufferers. When stimulated by abnormal brain activity, the trigeminal nerve releases pro-inflammatory substances that cause blood vessels to swell around the face and neck area, contributing to the classic symptoms of a migraine: throbbing headache; sensitivity to light, sound, and smells; and of course, neck pain.

Can Neck Problems Cause Migraines?

In the context of migraines, neck pain is more often a symptom rather than a trigger. However, certain types of headaches can be caused by neck problems like injury, chronic neck tension, and inflammation.

migraines

 

Cervicogenic headache is a pain that originates in the neck or cervical area but is perceived in the head. The cervical spine is the uppermost portion of the spine in the neck. It is comprised of seven bones (vertebrae), C1 through C7, all padded with intervertebral discs. Unlike migraine, which is classified as a primary headache, cervicogenic headache is a secondary headache, meaning that it is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as:

  • Degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease
  • Whiplash, falls, or other neck injuries
  • Tumors
  • Fractured vertebrae
  • Pinched nerve
  • Muscle strain
  • Infections
  • Cervical protraction from postural problems

Cervicogenic headaches are not migraines, but they can be just as recurrent and debilitating. Treatments include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications to fix postural issues, and, in some cases, surgery or injections to relieve nerve compression or correct structural problems.

Use good posture!

  • Avoid holding your neck still or keeping it in one position. Even a “good position” will cause muscle fatigue if maintained for too long. Set a timer to remind you to take a break.
  • Use good posture during all activities. Be ‘tall’ as you sit, stand or walk.
  •  Have a good set-up for your desk or computer at work and at home. The top of your head should be level with the top of your screen.
  • Be aware of your neck position when using a laptop or texting on a cell phone.
  • Avoid stress on your neck when reaching or lifting by keeping objects close to your body. If sitting, place objects you need within easy reach.
  • Avoid cradling the phone between your ear and shoulder.
  • Sleep on your side or back with your neck and head supported by pillows.

How to Tell If It’s a Migraine or Cervicogenic Headache

If you have recurrent neck pain and headaches, you may be wondering whether your symptoms are caused by migraines or neck issues. Cervicogenic headaches can mimic migraines, so it’s not always easy to tell them apart. However, there are some telltale signs that can indicate that your neck pain is caused by a migraine rather than a cervicogenic headache:

  • Your headache and neck pain always start and end at the same time
  • Your neck only hurts when a headache is about to start or after a headache
  • The pain seems to originate from the head and radiate downwards, not the other way around
  • You experience nausea and vomiting, light and sound sensitivity, and blurred vision
  • The pain does not worsen when you turn your head a certain way or when you press on your neck

When Should I Worry About Headaches and Neck Pain?

Neck pain from headaches is common and rarely a cause of concern. However, severe headaches with or without neck pain can be a sign of a serious condition, such as a stroke, a brain aneurysm, meningitis, or encephalitis (life threatening inflammatory diseases of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).

Seek immediate medical help if you are experiencing the worst headache you’ve ever had, a severe or violent headache or neck pain that comes suddenly, or a headache accompanied by:

  • Fainting
  • Confusion or memory loss
  • Trouble speaking
  • Trouble walking
  • Severe vomiting
  • Sudden and severe neck pain or stiffness
  • Trouble moving your arms or legs

Relieving a Migraine With Neck Pain

Once you’ve determined that your neck pain is caused by migraines and not by structural issues or cervical injuries, there are a few things you can do to relieve migraine-related neck pain. In most cases, since neck pain is a migraine symptom, treating the headache itself will greatly improve neck stiffness and soreness. However, if the pain becomes so severe during the attack that your neck continues aching for several hours or days after the migraines, the following natural options may help you find comfort:

Takeaway

Migraines can cause a variety of symptoms, including neck pain. Sometimes, though, neck pain from an injury or a cervical issue can radiate upward and become a headache. This is called a cervicogenic headache. In both cases, it is possible to find comfort and resume your daily activities with lifestyle modifications, home remedies, nutritional support, to maintain a healthy inflammatory response, and medication. Be sure to reach out to a specialist if you are worried about your migraine symptoms, neck pain, or have other headache-related concerns.

 

 

Riboflavin for Migraine Sufferers

Multiple studies have demonstrated that high dose riboflavin is extremely beneficial for migraine sufferers, both adults, and children.

WHAT IS RIBOFLAVIN?

Riboflavin is also known as Vitamin B-2, is an essential nutrient required for life. One of the most important uses of riboflavin is that it helps in the production of energy in the body.  The vitamin is water-soluble, which means the body cannot store it, but it is vital for red blood cell production and growth.

Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins all interact with riboflavin when releasing energy for our bodies to use. Riboflavin also acts as an antioxidant that can prevent premature aging and chronic illness.

NATURAL FOOD SOURCES OF RIBOFLAVIN

It’s naturally found in organ meats such as liver and kidney and in many vegetables, legumes, nuts, and leafy greens like spinach. Some of the richest sources include calf liver, torula yeast, and brewer’s yeast, whole almonds, wheat germ and mushrooms, milk, cheddar cheese, and eggs are also good sources.

 

vitamins

 RIBOFLAVIN BENEFITS

– Riboflavin is involved in energy production in every cell.

– Riboflavin helps convert carbohydrates to sugar which acts as fuel to carry out bodily functions.  It is also critical to the breakdown of fats and proteins into energy your body can use. The enzymes involved in energy production do not function optimally without adequate riboflavin in the diet, which may lead to fatigue.

– Riboflavin is an excellent antioxidant that protects your body from free radical damage and aids in slowing the process of aging and many chronic diseases.

– Riboflavin is essential for the formation and proper functioning of fresh red blood cells. It interacts with iron which is used to synthesize hemoglobin (a major component of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.) Keeping hemoglobin levels high, helps your body to get the oxygen-rich blood necessary to perform the daily functions of life.

– Riboflavin is essential for the growth of healthy body tissue, including skin, hair, nails, and connective tissue. (One of the most common signs of riboflavin or vitamin B-2 deficiency is scaly, dry skin, cracked lips, and lesions around the mouth.)

– Riboflavin ensures proper growth and healthy reproductive organs

– Riboflavin helps to maintain a healthy immune system by enhancing natural immunity by strengthening the antibody reserves and by reinforcing the defense system against infections.

– Riboflavin protects the nervous system: Vitamin B2 can help in treating various nervous system conditions such as multiple sclerosis, anxiety, and epilepsy.

– Riboflavin helps to prevent acne. It helps improve the mucus secretion of skin and might clean up the skin pustules.

– Riboflavin (B-2) also plays a major role in the functioning of the other B complex vitamins like vitamin B3 (niacin) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). Therefore, a lack of riboflavin in the body can hinder the activity of other vitamins.

– Riboflavin is used in iron therapy for the treatment of sickle cell and iron deficiency anemia.

– Riboflavin may lower the risk of cataracts in people.

– Riboflavin helps in the repair of tissue, healing and infection

– Riboflavin assists in regulating thyroid activity.

– Riboflavin is known to be beneficial for people suffering from the following conditions; rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, acne, and migraines.

RIBOFLAVIN & MIGRAINES

Riboflavin/B-2 metabolites such as Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide or “FAD” are co-factors in the Krebs Cycle that produces energy. This coenzyme is an important component of the electron-transport chain.   This is crucial because a deficiency of mitochondrial energy reserves has been observed in migraine sufferers and many people exhibiting poor cerebrovascular tone.  Furthermore, migraineurs experience significant mitochondrial energy deficiencies prior to a migraine.  Replenishing them with high dose riboflavin has positive consequences for migraine sufferers.

Note: “Flavin” refers to any of a group of yellow nitrogen-containing pigments, as riboflavin, that function as coenzymes. Because the vitamin riboflavin is water-soluble and not stored in the body, excess riboflavin not utilized by cells in the body is safely eliminated through the urine causing it to turn yellow.

Original MigreLief provides 400 mg of riboflavin, which is significantly higher than most multi-vitamins or B-complex products. Children’s MigreLief contains 200 mg of riboflavin.

Multiple studies have demonstrated that high dose riboflavin can help maintain healthy mitochondrial energy reserves, which are the powerhouses of cells, including brain cells. While women suffer migraine attacks three times more than men, both men and women equally benefit from riboflavin  It is low cost and well-tolerated option.

COMBINATION OF  NUTRITIONAL THERAPIES

Riboflavin – Magnesium – Feverfew

Nutritional deficiencies, inflammation, and vasospasms can independently and together contribute to migraines occurring. While riboflavin can be effective for maintaining healthy levels of mitochondrial energy reserves, combining riboflavin with magnesium and feverfew provides three mechanisms of action, each working independently and together to provide ongoing nutritional benefits for migraine sufferers.

In fact, a 2003 study in the Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association noted that using riboflavin in combination with feverfew and magnesium helps to maintain normal cerebrovascular function aiding the blood to flow more properly in the brain. When the blood is flowing the way it should, it helps to maintain a healthy inflammatory response and to maintain healthy cerebrovascular tone and function.

 

Learn more:

Superior Efficacy of Puracol Feverfew™
Magnesium Helps with Much More than Migraines
NIH Studies – Riboflavin for Migraines