People with migraines know that living with an intense throbbing headache is hard. Although there are a variety of prescription medications to numb the pain, several of them result in unwanted side effects. Some vitamins and supplements reduce the severity of your symptoms. These have not been proven to prevent migraines, but there is a science that supports their effectiveness. Find them listed below.

1. Riboflavin
Riboflavin or vitamin B2 is important for mitochondria, the minute structures located in the cells of the body. These produce energy which is essential for a cell’s well-being. If the function of mitochondria is weak or damaged, the cells can die. According to some experts, migraines occur because an individual may have mitochondria defects. This makes the pain thresholds weaker, resulting in throbbing pain. By taking riboflavin, this defect is overcome. This supplement is also recommended by some doctors; although some may develop diarrhea or excessive urination, it is uncommon. Riboflavin turns your urine fluorescent yellow or orange, so don’t be surprised. There are many other pills for vitamin B2 available in the market. It is naturally found in green vegetables, nuts, milk, eggs, and meat. About 400 mg of riboflavin is suggested to prevent migraines, but it may interfere with certain antibiotics like tetracycline, so consult a doctor before taking them.

2. Magnesium
Magnesium is beneficial for the muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. It controls blood pressure and blood sugar. Early symptoms of magnesium deficiency include fatigue, nausea, weakness, or loss of appetite. It can progress to muscle spasms, tremors, abnormal heartbeat, or personality changes. According to scientific research, there is a link between low magnesium levels and migraines. Some authors say that if magnesium is delivered intravenously, it reduces acute migraine attacks, and oral magnesium reduces the severity and frequency of the attacks. The American Migraine Foundation recommends a daily dose of 400-500 mg of magnesium daily. Supplements of this mineral are available widely. Foods rich in magnesium include whole grains, nuts, leafy vegetables, and legumes. An excessive dose of this mineral may lead to abdominal pain or diarrhea.

3. Coenzyme Q10 and melatonin
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), like riboflavin, is found in the mitochondria of the cells. It reduces oxidative stress, a critical metabolic abnormality that occurs in the brains of certain migraine patients. In this way, it helps prevent migraines. This substance does not deliver serious side effects though some may get an upset stomach or nausea. Doctors will typically recommend 100 mg CoQ10 pills three times a day. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a natural hormone. According to some studies, low levels of melatonin can cause migraines. It is an anti-inflammatory medication typically used to get peaceful sleep after a stressful work week or adjust your sleep cycle. This supplement usually does not cause side effects but may cause daytime sleepiness or abdominal pain in rare cases. Talk to your doctor before taking melatonin pills if you take anticoagulants, diabetes medications, birth control pills, or immunosuppressants.