Truths and Myths in Pediatric Migraine and Nutrition

Nutrients. 2021 Aug 6;13(8):2714. doi: 10.3390/nu13082714.

Abstract

The link between migraine and nutrition can be explored from several points of view. Lifestyle and, in particular, aspects of nutrition can have a significant impact on the course of pediatric migraine. In addition, some dietary treatments, such as the ketogenic diet, and some active ingredients present in foods (nutraceuticals) may have a therapeutic effect on migraine. A diet that can control weight gain and obesity has beneficial effects on migraine severity. On the other hand, when we talk about the link between nutrition and headaches, it is also necessary to point out that some public information is actually fake news that has no scientific basis. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the salient points linking pediatric migraine to nutritional principles, focusing on the relationship between weight and headaches, the therapeutic effect of food for medical purposes, the ketogenic diet as a migraine treatment, and the relationship between migraine and dietary habits.

Keywords: allergy; diet; food; ketogenic diet; migraine; nutrients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Diet / adverse effects*
  • Diet, Ketogenic* / adverse effects
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / diagnosis
  • Migraine Disorders / diet therapy*
  • Migraine Disorders / etiology
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome