Migraines & Headaches

Older theories about migraines suggested that symptoms were possibly due to fluctuations in blood flow to the brain. Now many headache researchers realise that changes in blood flow and blood vessels don’t initiate the pain, but may contribute to it.

One aspect of migraine pain theory explains that migraine pain happens due to waves of activity by groups of excitable brain cells. These trigger chemicals, such as serotonin, to narrow blood vessels. (Reference)

Common migraine triggers include;
– Dehydration
– Bright light
– Stress
– Structural issues
– Sinus issues
– Food reactions

Research has found that up to 30 per cent of people who experience migraines report certain foods to trigger their migraines. Many also reported accompanying digestive symptoms, such as bloating, flatulence or diarrhoea, which can also be associated with a food reaction.

A study found that people with migraines were 4.13 times more likely to have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) than those without migraine. Another study found that people with IBS had a 60% higher risk or were 1.6 times more likely to have migraine than people without IBS. In addition to having a bidirectional relationship, the first study found that those living with migraine and IBS had more severe migraine symptoms.

The most common food reaction triggering migraines we see in our clinics is to a naturally occurring food chemical called amines, due to their vasoactive properties.

Amines are the by-product of the break down of proteins, so are high in foods that are slow cooked, fermented, or need to ripen before we eat them (e.g. avocado).

In fact, the “5 C’s” known well to migraines sufferers are all high in amines; cheese, chocolate, coffee, coke & citrus fruits.

You can obtain a comprehensive list of foods that contain amines in our Free Food Chemical Intolerance E-Pack.

Other common migraine food triggers include;
– Salicylates
– Glutamates (e.g. MSG)
– Food additives (e.g. sulfites)
– Sugars
– Yeast
– Mould
– Dairy products
– Soy

In our clinics we see lots of clients struggling with migraine symptoms, who are frustrated by the lack of medical treatment options.

Many reach out to us as they are sick of going through endless prescriptions for medications and following elimination diets which simply aren’t sustainable long-term.

With Positive Association Technique (PAT) we’re able to offer a natural migraine treatment option, as part of a holistic approach to help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine symptoms and flare-ups.

Positive Association Technique (PAT) is a natural allergy treatment performed by qualified Naturopaths to help alleviate the symptoms associated with allergies, sensitivities and intolerances.

We use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to assess your reactions to various food, airborne and chemical substances to help pinpoint your individual triggers.

We then use a chiropractic tool, called an Acustim, to gently stimulate acupressure points and nerve bundles down either side of your spine, while you’re holding a sample vial of the substance (e.g. amines).

This helps to re-train your body to no longer react negatively to the substance and relieve the associated symptoms.

You can learn more about PAT in our podcast episode – “What is Positive Association Technique (PAT)?”

We work with highly qualified Naturopaths who provide PAT from various clinic locations all over Australia and in Auckland, NZ.

To learn more and see if PAT is right for you, get in touch:

– Call us on 1300 853 023 / 09 479 5997 (NZ) to chat to our friendly staff
– Send us your question
– Get your Free PAT Information E-PACK