The role of diet in the prevention of migraine attacks

Abstract

The review provides information concerning the influence of dietary factors and different types of diet on the origin and frequency of migraine headaches according to the up-to-date scientific data. The relevance of the problem is associated with high prevalence of migraine, which is a common cause of disability amongst young people. Gut – brain axis takes a significant place in the pathophysiology of migraine. The concept of a gut-brain axis explains a bidirectional relationship between the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system. It has been suggested that changes in the gut-brain axis functioning may play a role in the pathogenesis of migraine. The review describes possible mechanisms of gut microbiota involvement in the pathogenesis of migraine. Knowledge of the important role of food triggers in migraine has contributed to the development of a dietary therapeutic strategy for the prevention of migraine headache. The paper contains data concerning possible pathogenetically substantiated effects of various types of diet (elimination, epigenetic, ketogenic) in migraine prevention, given the lack of efficacy and side effects of current migraine drug therapy. The review discusses the possible positive effects of dietary approaches on migraine through their beneficial influence on the intestinal microbiota and functioning of the gut-brain axis. Conclusions. An update on the role of diet in the pathogenesis and prevention of migraine attacks is an extremely important and promising scientific field, which requires further research with the development of personalized approaches taking into account the individual characteristics of each patient.

Keywords

• migraine
• diet
• gut microbiota
• prevention