Hey there! If you’re tired of migraines ruining your day-to-day life, you’re not alone. Here at our migraine clinic in Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, we get it. Migraines are more than just headaches—they can be debilitating and make you feel like you’re missing out on life. But don’t worry, we’ve got some fascinating insights into how your gut health might be playing a bigger role than you think. Let’s dive into the science behind gut dysbiosis and its link to chronic migraines!

Understanding the Role of the Gut Microbiome

The gut microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that live in our digestive tract. These microorganisms play an essential role in helping us digest food and absorb nutrients, as well as maintaining a healthy immune system. Disruptions to this delicate balance, known as gut dysbiosis, can lead to various health issues, including chronic migraines.

The Importance of Microbiome Testing

Microbiome testing is a powerful tool in identifying specific gut imbalances that may contribute to migraines. By analyzing the composition of gut bacteria and other microorganisms, these tests can reveal overgrowths of harmful bacteria or deficiencies in beneficial ones. This information is crucial in understanding the underlying causes of migraines and developing personalized treatment plans.

How Gut Dysbiosis Leads to Migraines

Research has shown that gut dysbiosis can lead to migraines through several mechanisms:

• Inflammation: Harmful bacteria produce toxins that enter the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation. This inflammation can affect the brain and trigger migraines.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Gut dysbiosis can impair the absorption of essential nutrients like B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E, which are vital for maintaining overall health and preventing migraines.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Dysbiosis can disrupt hormone levels, including estrogen, leading to increased sensitivity and frequency of migraines.

Personalized Treatment Plans Based on Microbiome Testing

At Soothed, we use microbiome testing to develop personalized treatment plans for our patients. Here’s how it works:

1. Sample Collection: Patients provide a stool sample, which is analyzed in a lab to identify the composition of their gut microbiome.
2. Data Analysis: The results reveal specific imbalances, such as overgrowths of harmful bacteria like H. Pylori, Bacillus, and Streptococcus, or deficiencies in beneficial bacteria.
3. Personalized Protocol: Based on the test results, we create a tailored treatment plan that includes dietary changes, specific probiotics, and natural antimicrobial supplements to restore a healthy gut balance.

Sample Tests, Results, and Outcomes

At Soothed, we have conducted extensive research to understand the link between gut dysbiosis and chronic migraines. Below are some examples of the tests, results, and outcomes we have observed in our patients: Female 22 yrs

• Symptoms: Chronic migraines, allergies, and occasional slurred speech. Significant findings: Microbiome infected with H. Pylori, Bacillus, and Streptococcus, leading to significant gut inflammation and weakening of the gut lining (low secretory IgA). Hormonal imbalances of excessive DHEA production leading to high androgen production and further inflammation.
• Tests: GI 360 Advanced Microbiome Test and Dutch Advanced Hormone Test
• Outcome: Specific diet and supplement protocol to address H. Pylori, Bacillus, and Streptococcus overgrowth. Significant reduction in intensity and frequency of migraines.

Female 24 yrs

• Symptoms: Chronic migraines, weight gain, anemia, nausea, sinus issues, anxiety, and dizziness. Significant findings: Microbiome overgrowth of Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Streptococcus causing systemic inflammation. Hormonal imbalances influenced by gut condition showing excessive androsterone production.
• Tests: GI 360 Advanced Microbiome Test and Dutch Advanced Hormone Test
• Outcome: Specific diet and supplement protocol to address Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Streptococcus overgrowth. Significant reduction in intensity and frequency of migraines, nausea, and dizziness. Reduction in weight and resolution of anemia.

Female 25 yrs

• Symptoms: Chronic migraines, PCOS, weight gain, constipation, and anemia. Significant findings: E. coli, Klebsiella, Enterococcus, and Bacillus overgrowth. Hormone test revealed significant lack of progesterone leading to estrogen dominance.
• Tests: GI 360 Advanced Microbiome Test and Dutch Advanced Hormone Test
• Outcome: Protocol designed to address harmful microbes and hormonal imbalances. Significant reduction in intensity and frequency of migraines, PCOS, and weight gain. Resolution of anemia and constipation.

Lifestyle Changes

Managing migraines isn’t just about diet and supplements; it’s also about making lifestyle changes that support your overall well-being. Stress Management Stress is a major trigger for many migraine sufferers. Practising stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Even simple activities like taking a walk in nature or practising mindfulness can make a big difference. Regular Exercise Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers, and helps improve overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are great options. Sleep Hygiene Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for managing migraines. Establish a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Make your bedroom a comfortable, relaxing environment, and avoid screens and heavy meals before bedtime. By making some lifestyle changes and understanding the science behind gut dysbiosis, you can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of your migraines. Remember to maintain a healthy diet and consider the impact on your gut health. If you’re struggling to manage your migraines, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic in Burleigh Heads. We offer personalised protocols and advanced testing to uncover the specific causes of your migraines. Begin your journey to a migraine-free life today by contacting us at https://www.soothed.co/. Together, we can help you take control of your health and improve your quality of life.

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Disclaimer: Supplements alone may not eliminate migraines. Use specific migraine testing to identify your migraine causes with the guidance of a professional. If you notice your headaches becoming more frequent or more severe, be sure to see your doctor. Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment. Also, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking supplements to be sure they don’t interact with any other medications you may be taking. How we reviewed this article: Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version: June 28th, 2024 Written By: the Soothed Migraine Specialists Edited By: Will Simpson, BAppSc, MBA Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Mary Oppenheim, M.D. Dr. Oppenheim graduated from the University College of Cork, Ireland in 2009 with a medical degree in Internal Medicine and has worked in the fields of Neurology, Internal Medicine, and Cardiology. Dr. Oppenheim is currently a medical lecturer at the Global Medical Education Collaborative. She has been a migraine sufferer herself and understands how disabling the condition can be. Dr. Naheed Ali, M.D., Ph.D. Dr. Ali is a physician by education and a writer by choice since 2005. He earned an MD degree in 2008 and later completed Harvard Medical School’s lifestyle medicine training in 2012, before obtaining a Ph.D. in holistic health elsewhere in 2013. He brings more than 15 years of experience working in a remote environment and has more than 15 years of health-related publications to his credit. He taught at colleges in the US where he lectured on various biomedical topics and delivered over 2000 hours of live presentations. Sources: Soothed has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. The role of B vitamins in the pathophysiology of migraine URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25815319/ Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Health Professionals URL: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/ Vitamin D Deficiency URL: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15050-vitamin-d-vitamin-d-deficiency Vitamin E Test Catalog Overview URL: https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/42358#Clinical-and-Interpretive