Do Migraines Change The Brain?

For the millions of people who experience migraines, this debilitating experience is more than just pain. They are a window into how uniquely sensitive and reactive a migraineur’s brain is. Understanding the neurological and physiological differences in the brain can shed light on why some individuals are more susceptible and what lifestyle changes can make a difference.

How the Migraine Brain is Different

If you are familiar with Healthy By Principle, we consistently mention how migraines are not just  bad headaches but are full body experiences that are caused mainly by hydration, nutrition, and environmental factors. Migraineurs, people who endure migraines, have a unique brain that is structurally and functionally different from those who do not have migraines. The differences are highlighted by the unique triggers and symptoms associated with migraines.

1. Sensory Hypersensitivity

Migraine brains are more responsive to senses like light, sound smell, and touch. Any stimulation that might seem insignificant to the average person may be enough to trigger a migraine or start a prodrome.

2. Altered Brain Structure

Imaging studies are showing that migraineurs may have differences in brain structure. More research and better technology may help us further understand migraines. 

3. Disrupted Electrolyte Flow

Electrolytes play a major role in daily life for everyone. For migraineurs, they are even more important. Maintaining electrolyte homeostasis is the #1 defense against migraine.  Sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are some electrolytes that help your brain send electrical signals and keep everything running smoothly in your body. Without proper hydration and function you may experience an aura.

Supporting Your Migraine with Nutrition

Hydration and diet are a daily step you can take to improve your health as a whole. Studies, testimonials, and possibly your own personal experiences support the fact that having a good diet and staying hydrated makes your life better.  

1. Stay Hydrated

Aim for steady hydration throughout the day. There is a small chance you can save yourself from a migraine with last minute salt and potassium ingestion with water but it is always safer to consistently stay hydrated.

2. Stabilize with Balanced Meals

Skipping meals, eating high sugar foods, or not eating enough food are all causes than can trigger a migraine. Eating consistently balanced meals will help your body and your brain.

3. Supplement if You Need

Supplements are a great resource for when getting everything from your diet may be too hard. There are various reasons you might miss out on certain nutrients like running out of calories or not having access to certain foods. Whichever reason you might have, supplements are a great way to fill in the gaps. We offer many supplements that migraineurs might need a little extra of compared to the average person.

Living with a migraine brain means living with a system that is more responsive and less forgiving. Don’t worry, it can be managed. Medication is always an option but daily choices around hydration and nutrition may be your best and easiest option. Keeping your body and brain as stable and nourished as possible can reduce your chances of a migraine and can make you feel more in control of your health and your life. So, drink that gallon of water, eat that full meal, and live your life outside moving freely and happily.