Back-to-School Headache Prevention

With “Back to School” season on the horizon, stress levels are certainly on the rise for many of us. This can lead to stress-related headaches, which can be prevented with the right habits and supplements! Here are my suggestions to decrease the intensity and frequency of headaches:

1. B2 - Also known as Riboflavin, this vitamin can help relieve the severity of headaches and migraines by reducing oxidative stress in the body. It can be supplemented in capsule form, or found in foods like eggs, organ meats (kidneys and liver), lean meats, and milk. 
2. Magnesium - This acts as a muscle relaxant and greatly reduces the frequency of headaches – studies have even shown it to be more effective than over-the-counter migraine prevention medications. There are many different types of magnesium but Magnesium Bisglycinate is the most easily absorbed in the body.
3. Vitex - AKA “Chaste Tree”, is very effective in the treatment of headaches as they relate to hormones and the menstrual cycle. It helps regulate your cycle and decrease PMS symptoms associated with menstruation, including headaches. Be sure to choose a high quality brand to get a therapeutic dose.
4. Ginger - This common and easy to use herb can help relieve frequency of headaches, and the nausea often associated with them. Simply put a chunk of fresh ginger in hot water and sip it as a tea! It can also be found in supplement form.
5. CoQ10 - This powerful coenzyme really helps decrease the frequency of headaches and migraines and can be taken daily as a prophylactic. It is also really helpful for exercise induced headaches.

Talk to your practitioner or our front desk staff about what might be best for you specifically. All of the above suggested supplements are good to have on hand in your home pharmacy, in lieu of taking harsh, over-the-counter pain relievers.

Wishing you all a smooth ease back into September!

Be well,

Dr. Kate