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

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

To prepare berries, combine first 5 ingredients; toss to combine. Cover and chill 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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

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

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)

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

Mix up and bake your cake according to the box’s directions.
Slice 1 cup of strawberries, set aside. Halve remaining strawberries, set aside.
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.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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

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…

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 Migraine – Akeso Health Sciences

Migraine – Prominent neurologists weighs in – Newsmax

Psychiatric Comorbidities Associated with Migraine – The Clinical Advisor

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

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

What are MigreLief Side Effects?

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.

A 2025 study reported migraine increases depression risk sixfold, anxiety eightfold, and stress fivefold on average. Genetic analyses highlight overlapping neuroinflammatory pathways contributing to both migraine and psychiatric comorbidities. (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)

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 at the 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 trigger 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 migraines.

Taking a Proactive Role in Your Health

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. Being proactive is key. So here are some healthy lifestyle habits that can help.

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.

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 time 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 below that can help guide the way:

Natural Options for Overall 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 neurological comfort.

Migrelief contains a potent combo of riboflavin, magnesium, and Puracol feverfew. It’s been offering targeted nutritional support for migraine sufferers for almost 30 years.
Calm and Clever supports a calm, centered feeling, a positive mood, and sharp memory and recall by helping reduce levels of the 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.

The good news is, you’re not powerless. Being proactive and practicing healthy lifestyle habits can make a positive difference.

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%)

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

Acupressure
Yoga for migraines
Neck massage with lavender and other essential oils
Essential oil roller-stick on neck muscles and upper shoulders
Stretching
Alternate heat and cold
Nutritional supplements (fast-acting)
Switch to a supportive pillow that alleviates pressure in the neck area

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.

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

The Science of MigreLief Supplements for Migraine Sufferers

Magnesium, Riboflavin and Puracol® Feverfew – Triple Therapy for Migraine Sufferers

Migraine is a neurological disease with symptoms ranging from severe head pain, visual disturbances, vertigo, nausea, and sensitivity to light, sound or smell. Approximately 40 million Americans suffer migraines which can last from hours to days. For many men, women and children, migraine attacks not only disrupt quality of life, they are also debilitating. Nutritional deficiencies, inflammation and vasospasm can independently and together contribute to migraine occurrence, frequency and intensity.

The dysfunctional brain processes that have been shown to be present in migraine sufferers during migraine attacks include:

• Excessive platelet aggregation resulting in vasospasms due to serotonin release.
• Decrease in the brain cell’s mitochondrial energy reserves.

The ‘Triple Therapy’ combination of Magnesium, Riboflavin and Feverfew have been proven in double blind placebo-controlled studies to be beneficial to migraine sufferers. This combination helps maintain healthy cerebrovascular tone and function while promoting healthy mitochondrial energy reserves.

Magnesium

Studies have shown migraine sufferers with poor cerebrovascular tone have low levels of magnesium. Magnesium is a natural mineral that is necessary for healthy bodily function as it promotes heart health, stabilizes blood pressure, regulates nerve and muscle function and builds bone, DNA and protein. Magnesium is intimately involved in the control of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors which play an important role in pain transmission in the nervous system and in the regulation of cerebral blood flow. Magnesium ions plug the NMDA receptors which renders calcium unable to exert its vasodilatory effects.

Magnesium has numerous effects that support cerebrovascular tone and function including the following mechanisms of action:

• Inhibition of platelet aggregation
• Interference with synthesis, release and action of inflammatory mediators
• Direct alterations of cerebrovascular tone
• Inhibition of vasospasm
• Stabilization of cell membranes.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2)

Research has shown that a mitochondrial defect may reduce an individual’s threshold to migraine triggers and lead to migraines. A deficiency of mitochondrial energy reserves has been observed in many people exhibiting poor cerebrovascular tone. Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the body convert food to energy. It is a precursor of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN ) which unlike CoQ10 are involved in all three cellular energy production processes; glycolysis, krebs cycle and electron transport. At the proper dose, riboflavin helps maintain healthy mitochondrial energy reserves which is very beneficial to migraine sufferers.

Feverfew

The herb feverfew (Tanacetum Parthenium) has been recorded as a medicinal remedy for millennia. Commonly recommended for its ability to support cerebrovascular tone, feverfew is rich in compounds known as sesquiterpene lactones and glycosides. While much of the feverfew research focuses on parthenolide, a type of sesquiterpene lactone, Akeso feels this is myopic and ignores studies that show feverfew benefits when the parthenolides are removed. While parthenolide may help, the presence of a full spectrum of other feverfew phytochemicals that Akeso has identified is what really makes the difference.

Scientific studies show feverfew inhibits platelet aggregation and the release of serotonin from platelets and polymorphonuclear leukocyte granules. Feverfew also inhibits pro-inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis and the release of arachidonic acid, making it beneficial to migraine sufferers.

MigreLief Triple Therapy with Puracol®

The world-class efficacy of MigreLief’s original patented formula is, for the most part, a result of the research and investment in feverfew chemistry that Akeso Health Sciences pioneered leading to the development of Puracol® feverfew. The unique profile of the phytochemicals present in Puracol® feverfew go beyond industry standards and give MigreLief users a significant advantage in achieving the results they seek.

4 Nutritional Options for Migraine Sufferers

Recommended by neurologists and headache specialists for twenty-five years, Akeso’s line of MigreLief supplements include four nutritional options: Three daily maintenance formulas for chronic migraine sufferers; MigreLief Original (teens & adults), Children’s MigreLief (age 2-12) and MigreLief+M (for women with menstrual / hormonal migraine) PLUS a fast-acting “as needed” formula, MigreLief-NOW.

THE MIGRELIEF NUTRITIONAL REGIMEN FOR MIGRAINE SUFFERERS: HOW IT WORKS:

Action Step 1
Choose one of MigreLief’s 3 daily formulas: (Original MigreLief (teens and adults), Children’s MigreLief (age 2-12 or under 100 lbs), or Menstrual MigreLief+M) and take twice a day, every day (1 caplet in the a.m. and one caplet in the p.m.). Stick with it for 3 months for maximum benefits and optimum results. It will grow in effectiveness over this time period. 1 bottle is a 30-day supply. MigreLief comes with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee when purchased at MigreLief.com – So don’t give up too early and miss the opportunity to feel the difference MigreLief can make.

Action Step 2
Take fast-acting MigreLief-NOW “as-needed” for on-the-spot nutritional support and neurological comfort. MigreLief -NOW is a great back-up supplement to take at first warning signs during difficult times. We recommend keeping MigreLief-NOW on hand during the build-up period when taking a MigreLief daily formula.

Note: Take MigreLief with food, and it is very beneficial for migraine sufferers to stay well hydrated and get plenty of sleep.

All of Akeso Health Sciences’ condition-specific dietary supplements are formulated by Chief Scientific Officer, Curt Hendrix, M.S., C.C.N., C.N.S. Curt has dedicated his life to researching and developing natural medicines for improving health and longevity and has been a principal scientific investigator for multiple NIH (National Institutes of Health) studies researching the effects of nutritional supplements on Alzheimer’s disease.

For more information visit MigreLief.com or email HealthAdvisor@MigreLief.com

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Holiday Stress – Tis the Season for Migraines

Winter holidays are the most festive occasions of the year, providing an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. They can also lead to an onslaught of responsibilities and chores; shopping, gift wrapping, baking, cooking and cleaning are just a few things that might overwhelm us this time of year. With holiday joy comes holiday stress and for migraine sufferers, stress can easily trigger bad headaches or migraines that can interfere with finishing holiday errands, let alone enjoying the season.

So, let’s look at what makes the holidays so stressful and how you can combat it.

Why Are Holidays So Stressful?

Winter Blues: The cold weather does not make it any easier. Sometimes, the dull and gloomy weather outside starts to project on your mood as well. The lack of sunshine can get you a little depressed and the festive season doesn’t seem so jolly anymore. Feelings of sadness that last throughout the holiday season—especially during the months of November and December. For some people, holidays can be a period of painful reflection, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression.
Financial Strains: Holidays can also get expensive. If you have a big family, you’re probably buying a lot of gifts and your savings are taking a huge hit, which can lead to stress.
Unhappy Memories: Most of the time, reminiscing with your family is great. It feels good to relive childhood memories. However, not all memories are happy. You might be missing the presence of a loved one who has passed away or maybe your children were not able to join you for Christmas this year.
Nosy Relatives: You have to spend your holidays socializing with people that you were dodging all year. Questions regarding your career and love life may come up and if you’re not in a good place, it will most likely stress you out.
Workplace: So, your boss has decided to make you work right up until Christmas Eve. This means you have not had much time to finish all your errands and you’re probably loaded on caffeine to keep yourself going.
Cold & Flu Season: The warm holiday traditions you cherish may still be upended by illnesses due to viruses lingering about but your family’s safety comes first. Take extra precautions when appropriate and practice basic safety hygiene.

You may be experiencing some of the above stresses, maybe all or maybe more, but despair not!
You can effectively cope with the holiday madness with the tips below.

Tips for Combating Holiday Stress & Migraines

While it can be frustrating, recognize that some unforeseen circumstances are out of your control. Instead of focusing on what you can’t control, focus on what you can.

Embrace Winter: Don’t let winter ruin your holiday celebration. Instead, enjoy what winter has to offer. Take your kids out to the front yard and build a snowman. Go ice skating, enjoy the festive music in the mall while you shop, and grab a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Plan Ahead and Ask for Help: Make a to-do list and keep things simple. Don’t take everything on yourself – don’t be afraid to ask for help and delegate when you can. Plan out all you need to do so you don’t fall behind on your errands and then get stressed about it. Avoid putting off your shopping until the last minute. Noisy, bright-lighted shopping malls filled with strong scents and long lines are the last place you want to be if you are prone to migraines.
Take Time Out to Relax and Remember to Breathe: When we are stressed our breathing pattern changes. The primary role of breathing is to absorb oxygen and to expel carbon dioxide through the movement of the lungs. Typically, an anxious person takes small, shallow breaths, using their shoulders rather than their diaphragm to move air in and out of their lungs. This style of breathing disrupts the balance of gases in the body and can prolong feelings of stress and anxiety by worsening the physical symptoms of stress. So, remember to control your breathing and take a few deep breaths to stay relaxed.
Exercise: Even if it’s only taking a short walk get a little exercise daily.
Avoid Migraine Triggers: Some triggers can’t be avoided, changes in barometric pressure, holiday noise, bright lights, and scents. However, some triggers you can avoid…
- Nitrate-rich foods (cheese, processed meats, ham, etc.)
- Chocolate
- Caffeinated beverages
- Alcohol (red wine & beer)
- Lack of Sleep
If you drink, do so in moderation: “Does alcohol trigger migraines?” is a question as old as time itself. The truth is that the relationship between alcohol and migraines is not fully understood, and while some migraineurs seem to tolerate most kinds of alcohol just fine, others can get a raging migraine after a couple of sips. These holidays, avoid migraines by erring on the side of caution and drinking in moderation if you are going to drink at all. Avoid red wine, which has substances known to trigger migraines, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

As you run around shopping, attending to last-minute details, and staying out a little too late at that office party, you may find yourself getting less sleep than usual. This can be a huge trigger for migraines. Though sometimes it is unavoidable, do your best to get 6-8 hours of sleep nightly. If you have an occasion where that isn’t possible, at least try to squeeze in an afternoon nap the next day. If your occasional sleeplessness is ongoing, consider taking an effective natural sleep supplement.

Seasonal parties and alcohol seem to go hand in hand. Unfortunately, alcohol and migraines also go hand in hand. Hydration is your best line of defense. Make sure, before, during, and after consuming alcohol, you make sure to consume water. Healthy snacks every hour or so can prevent drops in blood sugar which can also trigger migraines and headaches.

Despite all the stress, many consider the holidays their favorite time of year, and you can too! Don’t let the fear of stress or migraines ruin your seasonal festivities. As long as you are aware and prepared, you will decrease your risk of holiday migraines.

If do you feel a migraine coming on take fast-acting MigreLief-NOW as early as possible to provide nutritional support that can be very helpful.

If stress is something that’s part of your daily life consider using AKESO’s Calm and Clever unique formulation for reducing stress and anxiety while enhancing focus, memory, and recall. If you are prone to mood issues, consider Akeso’s new Resilient Mood nutritional supplement that supports feel-good neurotransmitters and helps balance mood and positive outlook.

Have the happiest and safest of holidays.

Best wishes from all of us at Akeso Health Sciences.

MS and Migraine: Is There Really a Connection?

When most people think of MS, migraine usually doesn’t come to mind. Yet, research shows that patients with MS are far more likely to experience migraine than the average person. (1.)

Some people never have a migraine attack in their life – until their multiple sclerosis (MS) shows up. Others seek medical attention for headaches, only to discover they have MS.

So, does MS cause migraine? Or do the two conditions just tend to happen in the same people?

In this article, we’ll break down what the research says and whether the link between migraine and MS is legit.

Migraine is a common condition, affecting around 12% of Americans.(2.) MS on the other hand, is rare. Less than 1% of people in the US have multiple sclerosis. (3.)

Now here’s where things get interesting. Research shows that migraine affects between 31% to 43% of people with MS. (1. & 4.) That’s roughly three to four times the prevalence of people without multiple sclerosis!

Given those stats, many assume there must be a link between MS and migraine.

What’s the Link Between MS and Migraine?

Migraine and MS are both due to issues with the central nervous system. But they play out in very different ways.

MS is an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks myelin, the protective coating around your nerves. This can result in a host of symptoms including pain, tingling, weakness, and vision problems.

No one’s exactly sure what causes migraine. But it’s thought to be due to abnormal brain activity affecting the blood vessels and chemicals of the brain. (5.) The hallmark symptom of migraine is throbbing one-sided head pain. Yet, it can cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and sensitivity to light too.

While research shows that MS and migraine often go hand in hand, the whys remain unclear. Scientists aren’t sure whether MS triggers migraine or if certain people are just susceptible to both conditions.

Most people with migraine and MS had migraine attacks before their MS diagnosis

Yet some people’s migraine symptoms worsen after the onset of their MS. (6.) For others, migraine doesn’t emerge until after MS symptoms appear. Some suspect certain medications may be to blame.

Case in point: interferon, a medication that’s often prescribed to treat MS symptoms. (7.) For some people, interferon can trigger headaches. So, if someone receives a MS diagnosis and begins taking interferon, headaches may pop up.

But it goes both ways. Some medications prescribed for migraine can cause symptoms that mimic MS.

One study showed that topiramate, a medication used for migraine, can cause cognitive problems. (8.) This includes memory issues and trouble concentrating, both symptoms that can affect people with MS. (9.)

But medications aren’t the only link between migraine and MS. Both conditions share similar symptoms and comorbidities.

What are the Similarities Between MS and Migraine?

As mentioned, multiple sclerosis and migraine both affect the central nervous system. But that isn’t where their similarities end. Here are a few more ways migraine and MS are alike:

Attacks

If you’re reading this, you likely know that migraine symptoms come on as attacks. The same is true for most cases of multiple sclerosis.

Around 85% of people with MS have relapsing-remitting MS. (10.) For people with this form of MS, symptoms come on as flares or relapses, followed by periods of remission.

Triggers

MS flares and migraine attacks can both be set off by triggers. Apart from stress (which seems to be a trigger for almost everything), most MS and migraine triggers are unique.

MS triggers include:

Childbirth
Infections
Low vitamin D
Heat (whether due to warm temperatures or fever)
Smoking

Migraine triggers include:

Lack of sleep
Hormones
Weather changes
Strong scents
Bright lights
Certain foods, including alcohol, aspartame, caffeine, aged cheeses, and chocolate

Visual symptoms

Visual problems can also occur with both conditions. Some people with MS experience optic neuritis, a visual symptom due to lesions on the optic nerve. Optic neuritis can cause blurry vision, double vision, and even the loss of vision in one eye.

People who have migraine with aura may also experience visual disturbances. This might manifest as bright spots, flashes, or zig zags. Some even lose vision altogether for brief periods! (11.)

The main difference is how long these visual symptoms last. Visual disturbances from migraine with aura tend to last between 20-60 minutes. Yet, visual symptoms from MS flares can persist for days or even weeks.

Depression is a comorbidity

Living with a chronic condition like MS or migraine can be frustrating – even debilitating. That may explain why depression is more common in people with either condition.

People with migraine are 2-4 times more likely to deal with depression than someone without migraine. (12.) And half of all people with MS suffer from depression at some point in their lives. (13.)

Why Misdiagnosis Happens

Since MS and migraine symptoms are similar, misdiagnosis is common. In fact, one study found that out of 241 new patients with multiple sclerosis, 18% were wrongly diagnosed. (14.) Of those misdiagnosed patients, 16% had migraine.

Another study from Neurology found that out of 110 patients diagnosed with MS, 33% had been misdiagnosed for ten or more years! (15.)

So symptoms aside, why does misdiagnosis happen so often?

Well, for many, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results are to blame. Both migraine and MS can cause brain lesions, which can show up on MRIs. This can make diagnosis tricky.

Treatment for MS and Migraine

Doctors often prescribe medications to manage symptoms of multiple sclerosis and migraine. But prevention is the simplest treatment option for both.

Making healthy lifestyle shifts may ease symptoms and even prevent relapses and attacks from occurring. Here are a few prevention tips to add to your toolbox:

Avoid triggers

As mentioned, both migraine and MS can be triggered by environmental factors such as weather, heat, and certain foods. But not everyone’s triggers are the same.

For some migraineurs, bright lights and hormones may set them off. For others, caffeine and poor sleep are the culprits. That’s why knowing your own triggers is key.

So get clear on your triggers (this free migraine diary can help). That way, you can shift your lifestyle to stave off future relapses and attacks. (16.)

Manage stress

However, you don’t want to overdo it. Intense exercise can set off migraine attacks for some. So, pass on spin class and stick to moderate activities such as walking, swimming, and leisurely bike rides. (17.)

Get nutritional support

Eating a wholesome diet filled with fruits, veggies, and healthy fats provides the nutrients needed to support brain health.

However, certain nutrients and herbs can provide extra support. Lack of vitamin D is one trigger for multiple sclerosis flares. One simple way to remedy this is to get regular sun exposure. But if you live somewhere where sunlight is sparse, consider taking a vitamin D supplement.

For migraine, magnesium deficiency is often an issue. One study showed that taking a daily magnesium supplement reduced migraine frequency by 42%. (18.) Research also shows riboflavin (vitamin B2) can help stave off migraine attacks and reduce symptoms.

If you’re looking for a migraine support supplement that contains both, consider MigreLief. This safe and effective formula features magnesium, riboflavin, and Puracol Feverfew for a triple shot of migraine support.

Takeaways

Migraine is far more common in people with MS. This makes many wonder if MS causes migraine or if it’s simply a coincidence. For now, scientists aren’t sure. Some aspects of migraine attacks and MS relapses are similar, such as visual symptoms, which also blurs the lines.

Some people are even misdiagnosed with MS, when in fact they have migraine. That’s why it’s important to share a detailed account of symptoms with your doctor. Often doctors prescribe medications to manage symptoms of MS and migraine.

Yet, the best treatment is prevention. Avoiding triggers, getting regular exercise, managing stress, and nutritional support can all help ease the severity of future attacks.

Angel Food Cake Stuffed with Whipped Cream and Berries

Sugar-Free Angel Food Cake Version:

Angel Food Cake – Whip Cream & Berries

Angel Food -Berry Skewers

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

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

Ingredients

4th of July tip for migraineurs…

What’s the Relationship Between Migraine and Mental Health?

Depression and Migraine

Anxiety and Migraine

Bipolar Disorder and Migraine

What Causes Migraine?

Taking a Proactive Role in Your Health

Exercise

Stress Relief

Natural Options for Overall Well-Being

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Biofeedback

Nutritional Support

Takeaways

ADHD and Migraine: What’s the Relationship?

Can ADHD Cause Migraines?

Dopamine dysfunction

Mood disorder comorbidity

The stress connection

Can ADHD Meds Make Migraines Worse?

How Do You Treat Migraine with ADHD?

Know your triggers

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Get nutritional support

Sources

Coexisting Conditions vs. Comorbidity

Insomnia

Stroke

Epilepsy

Heart Disease

Anxiety & Depression

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Fibromyalgia

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

The Comorbidity and Coexisting Condition Challenge

Need extra help falling asleep?

Is a Stiff Neck a Symptom of Migraine?

Can Neck Problems Cause Migraines?

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

When Should I Worry About Headaches and Neck Pain?

Relieving a Migraine With Neck Pain

WHAT IS RIBOFLAVIN?

RIBOFLAVIN BENEFITS

RIBOFLAVIN & MIGRAINES

Magnesium, Riboflavin and Puracol® Feverfew – Triple Therapy for Migraine Sufferers

Magnesium

Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2)

Feverfew

MigreLief Triple Therapy with Puracol®

4 Nutritional Options for Migraine Sufferers

THE MIGRELIEF NUTRITIONAL REGIMEN FOR MIGRAINE SUFFERERS: HOW IT WORKS:

Why Are Holidays So Stressful?

You may be experiencing some of the above stresses, maybe all or maybe more, but despair not! You can effectively cope with the holiday madness with the tips below.

What’s the Link Between MS and Migraine?

Most people with migraine and MS had migraine attacks before their MS diagnosis

What are the Similarities Between MS and Migraine?

Attacks

Triggers

MS triggers include:

Migraine triggers include:

Visual symptoms

Depression is a comorbidity

Why Misdiagnosis Happens

Treatment for MS and Migraine

Avoid triggers

Manage stress

Get nutritional support

Takeaways

Sources

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

You may be experiencing some of the above stresses, maybe all or maybe more, but despair not!
You can effectively cope with the holiday madness with the tips below.