Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
For the health condition: Migraine

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid commonly found in fish oil and certain algae. Its use in migraine support is primarily based on emerging scientific evidence rather than tradition. Several small-scale randomized controlled trials and observational studies have explored the potential role of omega-3 fatty acids (including DHA and EPA) in reducing migraine frequency and severity. The proposed mechanisms include anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of neuronal excitability, and changes in vascular function—all of which may be relevant to migraine pathophysiology.

A handful of clinical trials have evaluated omega-3 supplementation in migraine sufferers, with mixed results. Some studies report modest reductions in migraine frequency and intensity, while others find no significant benefit compared to placebo. Notably, these studies often use combined EPA/DHA supplements, making it difficult to isolate DHA’s specific contribution. While a 2021 randomized trial (BMJ, 2021) demonstrated some benefit of a high omega-3 (EPA/DHA) diet in reducing headache frequency, the clinical effect was moderate and not consistently replicated across studies.

In summary, while there is a plausible biological basis and some preliminary evidence supporting the adjunctive use of DHA (usually with EPA) for migraine, the overall body of evidence is limited and inconsistent. DHA supplementation for migraine cannot yet be considered standard or strongly evidence-based, but ongoing research may clarify its role in the future.

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