Evidence supporting the use of: Polyunsaturated fatty acid
For the health condition: Migraine

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been investigated for their potential role in migraine prevention and treatment. The rationale is grounded in the anti-inflammatory properties of these fatty acids, as inflammation is implicated in migraine pathophysiology. Several clinical trials and systematic reviews have assessed the efficacy of omega-3 supplementation in reducing migraine frequency, duration, and intensity. Results are mixed: Some studies report modest benefits, such as reduced migraine days or headache severity, while others find no significant difference compared to placebo. For example, a 2021 randomized controlled trial published in BMJ found that a diet high in omega-3s and low in omega-6s reduced headache frequency and severity in chronic headache sufferers, including those with migraine. However, meta-analyses note that the overall quality of evidence is moderate, and heterogeneity among studies limits definitive conclusions. Guidelines from major headache societies do not universally recommend PUFAs as first-line therapy, but acknowledge their potential as adjunctive treatment. In summary, there is scientific investigation and some supportive evidence for PUFAs in migraine, but the strength of evidence is moderate and further high-quality research is needed to clarify their role.

More about Polyunsaturated fatty acid
More about Migraine

Products containing Polyunsaturated fatty acid

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.