The Gut-Brain Axis and Migraine Headache
- Details
- Dr. Shawn Thistle
The global prevalence of migraine headache is 14%, with recent evidence indicating that migraine is actually the leading cause of disability in those age 50 years and younger. Despite its prevalence, however, the exact pathogenesis of migraine headaches remains elusive. Several mechanisms have been suggested, including involvement of the gut-brain axis.
“Gut-brain axis” refers to the complex, bidirectional relationship between the gastrointestinal (GI) system and the central nervous system (CNS). Brain activity and hormonal actions allow the brain to influence the function of the gut, while a number of brain functions such as cognition and behaviour are in turn influenced by the gut. Indeed, dysfunction of the gut-brain axis has been identified as a causal factor in a number of neurological disorders (ex. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s).
These authors sought to compile the existing evidence regarding a link between the gut-brain axis and migraine headaches and present it in a narrative review. They completed a comprehensive review of the available literature, including an examination of the role of inflammation in migraine, plus the role of neuropeptides and the association between GI disorders and migraine headache…enjoy!
THIS WEEK'S RESEARCH REVIEW: “Gut-Brain Axis and Migraine Headache”
This paper was published in The Journal of Headache and Pain (2020 - open access HERE) and this Review is posted in Recent Reviews, Headache - Migraine, Nutrition and the 2021 Archive.
