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Migraines are difficult to treat, but a new study suggests that some dietary changes can dramatically improve people’s symptoms.
Migraines are incredibly debilitating and also very mysterious. Although they affect 12% of the population (1 person in each household), they remain difficult to treat. But a new study suggests a solution: eat more fish and less fried.
A new study, published in the trade magazine BMJ, explored whether or not to increase consumption of omega-3 fats (commonly found in fish) many plant foods) would help people cope with their migraines. The researchers also wanted to lower the omega-6 fats found in many processed oils. According to study participants, this change in diet significantly decreased headaches.
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“I haven’t had a migraine in over two years, not even a mild one.” Tanya Kamka told the New York News.“Going from having one a week to not having one was amazing.”
The researchers found that something as simple as a change in diet can significantly improve the lives of people suffering from recurrent migraines, reducing the number and severity of their attacks. “Many people with chronic pain continue to suffer despite taking medication,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Christopher E. Ramsden. “I think this can be integrated with other treatments to improve your quality of life and reduce pain.”
On average, participants experienced 16 days of migraines at the start of the study. Participants were divided into three groups. One followed a diet high in omega-3 fats, eating foods like wild salmon and black tuna and low omega-6 fats. The second group ate more omega-3 fats, but maintained normal omega-6 fat intake. The last group was the control group, which consumed a normal amount of both fats.
The study’s statistics said people experienced an average of 16 headaches a month. After 16 weeks following their diet, the group that ate the most fish and decreased their omega-6 fat intake experienced an average of four days less headaches per month. The second group, which had increased their fish intake while maintaining their omega-6 fat intake, had experienced 2 fewer headaches a month.
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According to the researchers, the easiest way to start practicing this diet would be to consume more fatty fish, such as salmon, black tuna, trout and anchovies. To avoid omega-6 fats, it helps to avoid fried and processed foods by replacing these oils with coconut oil, macadamia and avocado.
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