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

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Synopsis

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

Unsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids (such as EPA and DHA found in fish oil), have been investigated for their potential role in migraine management. Scientific interest stems from their anti-inflammatory properties and modulation of neuronal function. Several clinical studies and meta-analyses have explored the relationship between dietary intake or supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids and migraine frequency, duration, and severity. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in 2021 in the journal BMJ found that a diet higher in omega-3 and lower in omega-6 fatty acids led to a reduction in headache frequency and intensity among chronic migraine sufferers. Another meta-analysis in Headache (2020) suggested modest benefit from omega-3 supplementation in reducing migraine days, though results across studies are variable and sometimes inconclusive.

The biological rationale centers on the ability of unsaturated fatty acids to alter the production of inflammatory mediators (such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes) implicated in migraine pathophysiology. While the evidence is not uniformly strong and more high-quality, large-scale trials are needed, current data provide moderate scientific support for the use of unsaturated fatty acids—especially omega-3s—as adjunctive therapy in migraine prevention. They are not a first-line therapy but may be recommended as part of a holistic approach for some patients.

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