Synopsis

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

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid found abundantly in fish oil, has been investigated for its potential role in migraine prevention and management. The scientific rationale is based on DHA's anti-inflammatory properties and its role in maintaining neuronal membrane fluidity and function. Migraines are thought to involve neurogenic inflammation and changes in neuronal excitability, so omega-3s like DHA could plausibly help by reducing neuroinflammation and modulating neurotransmission.

Several small clinical studies and observational reports have suggested that omega-3 supplementation (including DHA and EPA) can reduce migraine frequency, duration, or severity in some people. For example, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown modest reductions in headache days among migraine sufferers supplementing with fish oil containing DHA. However, these studies often use combination omega-3 products (not DHA alone), have limited sample sizes, and sometimes show mixed results. Systematic reviews conclude that evidence is promising but insufficient for strong recommendations, and that further large, high-quality RCTs are needed.

While there is no widespread traditional use of DHA specifically for migraine, the existing scientific evidence, though limited and mixed, provides some justification for its use as an adjunctive therapy. The current strength of evidence is rated 2 out of 5, reflecting preliminary support but a lack of definitive clinical endorsement.

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Products containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Nature's Sunshine Circulatory System
Nature's Sunshine Krill Oil (With Vitamin K2)
Nature's Sunshine Super Trio