8 Ways Alpha Lipoic Acid Can Ease Migraine Pain
Migraines are a debilitating condition that affect millions of people worldwide. While there are many treatments available, some individuals may not find relief from traditional medications. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have potential in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Reduces Inflammation: Migraines are often linked to inflammation in the brain and surrounding blood vessels. ALA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of migraines
- Improves Blood Flow: Migraines are often caused by constricted blood vessels in the brain. ALA has been shown to improve blood flow, which can help alleviate migraine symptoms.
- Helps with Oxidative Stress: Migraines are also linked to oxidative stress in the brain. ALA is a powerful antioxidant that can help combat this type of stress, which can lead to fewer migraines.
- Increases Energy Production: Migraine sufferers often experience fatigue, which can exacerbate symptoms. ALA has been shown to increase energy production in cells, which can help reduce fatigue and improve overall well-being
- Decrease Migraine-associated Symptoms: ALA has been found to have beneficial effects on migraine-associated symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, as well as photophobia and phonophobia.
- Safe and Well-Tolerated: ALA has been found to be safe and well-tolerated in studies, with few side effects reported. This makes it a good option for those who have had negative reactions to other medications or are looking for a natural alternative.
- Can be used as Adjuvant Therapy: ALA can be used in conjunction with other medications and therapies, making it a versatile option for migraine sufferers. It can be used as an adjuvant therapy, which means that it can be added to a treatment plan to enhance its effectiveness.
- Improves Quality of Life: Migraines can significantly impact a person's quality of life. ALA has been found to improve overall well-being and reduce the frequency
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential of ALA for migraines, these findings suggest that it may be a promising option for those who have not found relief with traditional treatments. If you are considering taking ALA for migraines, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is safe for you and to establish a proper dose.
About ALA
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally-occurring compound that was first discovered in the 1950s. It is found in small amounts in certain foods such as spinach, broccoli, and yeast, and is also produced by the human body.
In the early 1980s, scientists discovered that ALA had antioxidant properties, which led to its investigation as a potential therapy for a variety of health conditions. In the following decades, research on ALA expanded to include its potential benefits for diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and neurological disorders.
ALA use as a therapy began to gain popularity in the 1990s, particularly in Europe. It was first approved as a prescription drug in Germany for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the nerves. Since then, ALA has been investigated for its potential benefits in a wide range of health conditions, including migraines, as mentioned in the previous answer.
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References for further reading
The beneficial effect of Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation as a potential adjunct treatment in episodic migraines https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34997178/