Migraine is a chronic disabling condition that may in part be caused by disruption in the lining of blood vessels in the brain, induced by elevated homocysteine levels. Migraines are characterized by recurring attacks of moderate to severe pain which is throbbing or pulsing, and is often on one side of the head. During migraines, people are very sensitive to light and sound. They may also become nauseated and vomit. Some triggers include: Anxiety, Stress, Lack of food or sleep, Exposure to light, Hormonal changes (in women)
Homocysteine levels are associated with the MTHFR C677T variants. One study3 found that high homocysteine levels doubled the risk for migraines. The MTHFR gene encodes an enzyme that facilitates the last step in the conversion of folic acid into it's active form, methylfolate. This, along with the active form of vitamin B-12 are important cofactors in the methylation cycle.
Supplementation with B-vitamins and folic acid reduced homocysteine by 39% and reduced the prevalence of migraine disability by 50%. Headache frequency and pain severity were also reduced. This effect on both homocysteine levels and migraine disability was associated with MTHFR C677T or MTRR genotypes. [1, 2]
Related to:
MTHFR, MTRR, b-vitamins