mineral · for headaches/migraines
Magnesium Oxide
Up to half of migraine sufferers run low on magnesium, and it calms the nerve signalling behind an attack.
Say that in clinical terms
Magnesium deficiency is found in up to 50% of migraine sufferers. Magnesium blocks cortical spreading depression, regulates NMDA glutamate receptors, inhibits excessive platelet aggregation, and stabilizes serotonin receptor signaling.
How strong is the research?
Solid evidence
Only one study
1 paper read, 1 supporting.
How much to take
daily (split AM/PM)
400–600 mg
For migraine prevention, 400-600mg elemental magnesium daily is recommended. Allow 3 months for full preventive effect.
Before you take it
- The cited RCT used a pediatric weight-based dose (9 mg/kg/day); this dosing scheme does not translate directly to adult flat-dose recommendations and should not be extrapolated for adults