Understanding Which Magnesium is Best for Migraines

Magnesium is one of the most powerful minerals that boost our immunity and help our bodies to function the proper way. For several ages, magnesium has been a popular mineral that has helped several migraine patients across the globe. Several debates and studies have taken place to discover which magnesium is best for migraines and why they are better than other minerals.

Although several controversies regarding the usefulness of this mineral keep emerging, it is worth a try, considering how numerous people have benefitted from it since the past ages. Read to know the different kinds of magnesium, how they can affect your migraine pain, their side effects, and what food you should include to increase the intake of this mineral.

Choosing the Right Magnesium for Migraine

Studies have shown how migraines are related to this powerful mineral in several ways. People who suffer from migraines have a low level of magnesium in their system. On the other hand, those who have enough magnesium are less likely to suffer from migraines or any other headache on average. 

Magnesium blocks certain pain receptors and eventually aids in preventing pain. Some scientists have also shown how a sudden lack of magnesium in our system can cause blood vessels in our brains to be narrowed, stiff, and constricted. This situation can eventually lead to migraine and other painful headaches. 

A balanced quantity of this mineral, therefore, can control and prevent migraines and other headaches if consumed regularly for a long time. Most frequently, doctors rely on Magnesium oxide to treat migraines and other headaches.

Types of Magnesium

There are several types of magnesium for headaches. Let’s take a look at the different kinds of magnesium that are suitable for different health conditions:

1. Magnesium Sulfate is an inorganic form of the mineral that can be absorbed into the body in a very small amount at one time.
2. Magnesium Carbonate can cause gastrointestinal upset. You should consume it in a small quantity for several reasons. It has a higher level of magnesium. If consumed more, it can cause several health issues.
3. Magnesium Oxide is the most common form of magnesium that is popular amongst migraine patients.
4. Magnesium citrate is another form of magnesium. Larger amounts of this magnesium is absorbed in the body. It is used to induce bowel movements.
5. Magnesium Chloride absorbs in our body quickly and has several health benefits.

Magnesium for migraine has been proved to be an effective mineral over the ages. However, experts suggest that you should not consume it directly. Magnesium supplements contain other substances as well in order to make sure it does not affect our immune system in the long run.

Side Effects of Magnesium for Headaches

Magnesium is considered to be a safe substance to be absorbed in our bodies. Magnesium and migraines have been correlated for a long period of time. It is due to its efficiency to control and prevent the disease. However, several side effects are there that you should be aware of before including this mineral in your routine.

1. Abdominal Issues

Consuming too much magnesium or its supplements can cause abdominal cramps/pain or vomiting in those people whose bodies are not familiar with this substance. In extreme cases of abdominal irritation, diarrhoea can occur, especially if your immune system is not strong enough to digest the mineral properly.

If you already have a stomach infection or an inflammatory bowel disease of IBS-D type, try not to include magnesium supplements in your diet.

2. Low Blood Pressure

The consumption of this mineral can also cause low blood pressure. If you already have a low blood pressure level, try avoiding this mineral, for it will increase your chance of having lower blood pressure after its consumption.

3. Slow Heartbeats

For some people, regular consumption of this mineral can also cause slowed heartbeat and decreased breathing rate. Irregular heartbeat may happen in people who consume excessive magnesium for a prolonged period of time.

4. Not Suitable with Other Medicines

Magnesium can also end up reacting unfavorably when mixed with other medicines. With other antibiotics, heart medicines, diuretics, and muscle relaxants, magnesium can mix up in your system and react badly afterwards.

5. Not for Pregnant Women

If you are pregnant, do not consume magnesium sulfate regularly as magnesium toxicity in the fetus can cause bone thinning.

These are some of the major health complications that the over consumption of magnesium and its supplements can cause. Do not forget to consult your doctor before including it in your diet to ensure your body is capable enough to consume the mineral without any side effects.

Foods Rich in Magnesium

Magnesium for migraines dosage remains around 350 mg or more, depending on the requirement. Doctors recommend different doses for different patients as per their issues.

However, before taking medications or including supplements in your diet, try consuming more of this mineral through your diet. Here are some easily available food options that naturally contain magnesium:

1. Most seeds such as chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin, and squash seeds contain magnesium.
2. Almonds, avocado, and bananas are rich in magnesium.
3. Low-fat yoghurt and black beans are also healthy options to include in your diet that naturally contain magnesium.

Conclusion

Try consuming more of the mineral through your diet to avoid major side effects that can cause severe health issues in the long run. It is important to ensure which magnesium is best for migraines and which type suits your issues the most without damaging your health. When taken in a safe quantity, magnesium can be the best medicine for most people suffering from severe migraines. For extreme cases, consult a doctor before including any supplement or medicines in your diet to make sure your physical health does not get affected in the future.