The Serotonin-Migraine Connection
Annette Nay, Ph.D.
Copyright © 2007

"Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter synthesized in serotonergic neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) and enterochromaffin cells in the gastrointestinal tract of animals including humans. Serotonin is also found in many mushrooms and plants, including fruits and vegetables." (Wikipedia, 2007b).

"Serotonin plays an important role in the regulation of anger, aggression, mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite. Low levels of serotonin may be associated with several disorders, namely increase in aggressive and angry behaviors, clinical depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, tinnitus, fibromyalgia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders" (Jigsaw Health, 2007).

Migraines occur when there is a drop in serotonin. In the absence of the proper amounts of serotonin the body makes neuropeptides which travel to the outer parts of the brain and cause the blood vessels to dilate. The enlarged vessels encroach on nearby nerves and cause pain. (Rodge, 2007)

So when a migraine feels emanate, try a piece of fruit or some vegetables to gain the proper amount of serotonin the body.

"Endorphins are endogenous opioid biochemical compounds. They are polypeptides produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus in vertebrates, and they resemble the opiates in their abilities to produce analgesia and a sense of well-being. In other words, they might work as "natural pain killers." Using drugs may increase the effects of the endorphins" Wikipedia (2007a).

To reduce the pain of a migraine while the fruit or vegetables begin to work on reducing the production of neuropeptides, help your body produce endorphins. There are three natural ways to do this: singing, exercising, or laughter. Since exercising and laughter usually cause a migraine to become worse, it is suggested that humming a tune that is not too energetic but elicits feelings, like that of the song: Amazing Grace. Also the use of a cold compress will reduce the veins in the affected area.

References

Jigsaw Health (2007). Increase serotonin naturally. Retrieved December 1, 2007, from
http://tinyurl.com/26gmvpr.

Rodge, R., (2007). What are migraines. Retrieved December 1, 2007, from
http://www.sparkpeople.com/dave/healthination_migraine.asp/

Wikipedia (2007a). Endorphins Retrieved December 1, 2007, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endorphin/

Wikipedia (2007b). Serotonin Retrieved December 1, 2007, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serotonin/