Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha-Linolenic Acid
For the health condition: Migraine

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid found in plant sources such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts. Its potential role in migraine management has been explored in recent scientific studies. The rationale is based on the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids, which may modulate the inflammatory pathways and neuronal excitability implicated in migraine pathophysiology. A 2021 randomized controlled trial (BMJ, Ramsden et al.) involving dietary alteration of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids showed that increasing dietary omega-3s (including ALA) while reducing omega-6 intake resulted in a modest reduction in headache frequency and severity in chronic migraine sufferers. However, the majority of studies focus on EPA and DHA (long-chain omega-3s from fish oil), with less direct evidence for ALA specifically. Some mechanistic studies suggest that ALA can be converted to EPA and DHA in the body, but the conversion rate is low. There is limited high-quality, direct evidence specifically for ALA, and most clinical recommendations for migraine focus on broader omega-3 intake. Overall, while there is emerging scientific interest and some supportive evidence, it remains preliminary, and ALA cannot yet be considered a first-line treatment for migraine.

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