There are many factors that can trigger a migraine, but research has shown that they may act through a common pathway. Common migraine triggers include stress, disrupted sleep, noise, odors and even diet. The pathway used by migraines has been found to involve oxidative stress.
Researcher Dr. Jonathan Borkum studied migraine triggers from information published between 1990 and 2014. What he uncovered was nearly all common migraine triggers had the ability to generate oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals, which cause an inability for the body to counteract their effects. The research suggests that antioxidants may be beneficial in preventing or lessening migraines.
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Dr. Borkum said, “These data hint that an acute migraine attack may be an attempt by the brain to protect itself, and possibly – when you look at certain chemicals released during an attack – to heal itself. Understanding migraines may ultimately teach us how we, too, can protect the brain.”
Antioxidants can be found in many foods, in particular berries and fruits like pomegranates.
Also read: Tyramine rich foods can trigger migraines
Natural ways to treat chronic migraine headaches
Source:
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-12/w-mtm120715.php