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Episodic Migraine Linked to Obesity

From Medical News Today

People who have the occasional migraine are more likely to suffer from obesity, compared with those who do not have migraines, according to a study published in the journal Neurology.

Previous studies have demonstrated a link between people with chronic migraines and obesity, the researchers say. But they add that the research has been conflicting on whether the link is relevant to people who have less frequent migraine attacks.

Researchers from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, MD, conducted a study of 3,862 people whose average age was 47.

All participants were required to complete surveys disclosing information on their height, weight and migraine regularity.

Of the participants, 1,044 were obese, while 188 suffered from occasional or episodic migraines – defined as having fewer than 14 migraines every month.

Results of the analysis showed that participants who were obese were 81% more likely to have episodic migraine of any frequency, compared with people of normal weight.

The research also showed that those under the age of 50 who were obese were 86% more likely to suffer from episodic migraine, and this risk did not increase in those over the age of 50.

Additionally, the risk of episodic migraine increased in women who were obese but not men.

The researchers say that while this may indicate that the link between migraine and obesity is absent in men, it more likely suggests that the relationship between obesity and migraine is stronger in women. They add that further research is needed to determine if this is the case.

The study authors say: “Our findings indicate that the risk of episodic migraine (of all frequencies) is increased in those with obesity, with the strongest association among those younger than 50 years, those who are white, and women.”

Lee Peterlin, of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and study author, says that as obesity is a risk factor that can potentially be modified, and since some medications for migraines can lead to weight gain or loss, this is important information for people with migraines and their doctors.

“These results suggest that doctors should promote healthy lifestyle choices for diet and exercise in people with episodic migraine,” he adds.

The study authors conclude that further research is needed to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of weight-loss programs in those who are obese and suffer from episodic migraines.

Medical News Today recently reported that scientists have discovered migraines may affect the long-term structure of the brain and increase the risk of brain lesions.

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Copyright: Medical News Today

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Janine Crifasi, DC, CCST

Dr. Janine Crifasi, our newest team member at AZ Chiropractic Neurology, is originally from New York – which explains the accent. She attended Life Chiropractic College West and was the Centennial class’s Most Outstanding Graduate. She practiced in the Bay Area until moving closer to family to raise her son who is attending college.

Dr. Janine is committed to learning and educating people to change their awareness about their bodies’ potential and empowering them with unique methods of retraining their brains to maximize their quality of life through neuroplasticity. Her passion to help others puts her patients at ease and makes her a highly sought-after community speaker. Prior to coming to Chandler, she owned a center specializing in kids with learning disabilities and served as the northeast clinical director of a functional neurology practice, overseeing several functional neurology clinics. 

She has completed her post-doctoral clinical neuroscience studies in Functional Neurology through the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies and has successfully completed the clinical exam and is now board eligible for the written portion. She is a Board Certified Doctor of Chiropractic for over 26 years. She has received additional extensive training in Spinal Trauma, and the Activator Method, and has a certification in Postural Neurology. 

In an effort to better serve her patients, Dr. Crifasi completed postdoctoral specialty training in blood chemistry, thyroid chemistry, brain chemistry, neuro-immune, and neuro-endocrine functional medicine. This knowledge of the brain-gut axis, and the mechanisms that impact our health, allow her to provide patients with easily implemented modifications enhancing improved lifestyle and nutraceutical recommendations as needed.