We examined the effects of dietary folate intake on severe headaches by analyzing data from a large national health survey. The study involved nearly 10,000 participants over the age of 20, where individuals self-reported their experiences with severe headaches.
Through sophisticated analysis methods, including multivariate logistic regression, we discovered that higher dietary folate intake appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of experiencing severe headaches. Specifically, participants who consumed more folate had significantly reduced odds of reporting severe headaches, with the most substantial impact seen in those with the highest intake levels.
Interestingly, we found that women aged 20 to 50 exhibited a non-linear association between folate and headache severity, suggesting that they might benefit from being more mindful of their folate consumption.
This research underscores the potential for dietary folate to play a protective role against severe headaches, encouraging individuals to consider increasing their folate intake for headache prevention.
Read More
8
Folate intake decreases migraine severity
Association between dietary folate intake and severe headache or migraine in adults: a cross-sectional study of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
We explored how dietary folate intake might be linked to severe headaches or migraines through a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 1999 to 2004. By examining over 4,100 adults, we observed that around 17% reported experiencing severe headaches or migraines. Importantly, our study used advanced statistical methods to ensure accurate and meaningful results.
Our findings revealed a clear relationship: higher intake of dietary folate appeared to correlate with fewer headaches. Specifically, those with higher folate intake, measured in categorized segments, had significantly lower odds of experiencing severe headaches or migraines compared to those with lower intake levels. The results suggested that as folate intake increased, the likelihood of suffering from severe headaches decreased, supporting the idea of a beneficial relationship.
In summary, our study indicated a linear negative relationship between dietary folate and headache severity, suggesting that incorporating more folate-rich foods into our diets could potentially help reduce the occurrence of migraines. This research provides valuable insights into dietary interventions for managing headache symptoms.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to migraines
The correlation between vitamin B12 serum levels and migraine: a case-control study.
We conducted a case-control study to investigate the link between vitamin B12 serum levels and migraine, which affects so many people but lacks a fully understood cause. Our research included 90 individuals experiencing migraines—split into those with chronic migraines and those with episodic migraines—matched against 90 healthy participants.
We measured vitamin B12 serum levels using a reliable testing method and explored how these levels correlated with migraine intensity, as assessed by two measuring scales. Notably, we found that migraine sufferers had significantly lower levels of vitamin B12 compared to those without migraines.
Chronic migraine patients specifically had even lower vitamin B12 levels than their episodic counterparts. Additionally, there was a noteworthy negative correlation; as vitamin B12 levels decreased, the severity of migraine attacks increased. These findings suggest that vitamin B12 deficiency may have an important relationship with migraine experiences, emphasizing the need for further studies to explore this connection in detail.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Headache improvement
13 people found this helpful
After 30 days of taking Now Foods Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid, I noticed a significant improvement. Initially prescribed for a deficiency revealed during thyroid treatment, I took one delicious tablet daily. Over the month, my constant drowsiness and fatigue vanished, I felt more active, and my headaches significantly diminished.
Read More
9
Effective remedy
1 people found this helpful
I really like this complex. Since starting it, my headaches have decreased and my overall well-being has improved. It's effective, and I'm buying it again.
Read More
9
Stress relief
1 people found this helpful
The cherry-flavoured tablet dissolves well under the tongue. I've taken it daily, as advised, and noticed a significant decrease in fatigue and headaches, improving my productivity during these stressful times.
Cerebral venous thrombosis with hyperhomocysteinemia due to loss of heterozygosity at methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) locus: a case report.
We investigated a unique case where a 14-year-old girl experienced prolonged headaches and nausea due to cerebral venous thrombosis linked to a rare genetic mutation. Elevated homocysteine levels were discovered during examinations, leading to anticoagulation therapy.
Notably, after receiving additional vitamins like B12, the patient reported no headaches within a month, alongside a significant decrease in intracranial pressure and thrombosis size. Although the treatment context is specialized, this case emphasizes the importance of understanding genetic factors in headache disorders.
Read More
9
Migraine linked to folate genetics
[The role of genetic polymorphisms in folate metabolism genes in the manifestation of migraine in children].
We examined the connection between genetic differences in folate metabolism and migraine experiences in children aged 7 to 18. The study involved 54 children with migraine symptoms and a control group of 115 others without neurological issues.
Focusing on four specific genetic variants linked to folate metabolism, we found that children with migraines were more likely to have a certain rare genetic variant that may increase plasma homocysteine levels, potentially indicating a hidden folate deficiency. In addition to genetic testing, we looked at vitamin B levels and the effectiveness of Cortexin, a treatment administered to the children.
After a 10-day course of Cortexin, many children reported significant improvements in their migraine symptoms, such as less headache pain, reduced fatigue, and better emotional stability. This suggests that while there’s a genetic connection to migraine, the treatment with Cortexin also plays a critical role in alleviating symptoms.
Read More
9
Folate intake may reduce headaches
Association between dietary folate intake and severe headache among adults in the USA: a cross-sectional survey.
We examined the effects of dietary folate intake on severe headaches by analyzing data from a large national health survey. The study involved nearly 10,000 participants over the age of 20, where individuals self-reported their experiences with severe headaches.
Through sophisticated analysis methods, including multivariate logistic regression, we discovered that higher dietary folate intake appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of experiencing severe headaches. Specifically, participants who consumed more folate had significantly reduced odds of reporting severe headaches, with the most substantial impact seen in those with the highest intake levels.
Interestingly, we found that women aged 20 to 50 exhibited a non-linear association between folate and headache severity, suggesting that they might benefit from being more mindful of their folate consumption.
This research underscores the potential for dietary folate to play a protective role against severe headaches, encouraging individuals to consider increasing their folate intake for headache prevention.
Read More
8
B vitamins show potential for migraine relief
B vitamins and their combination could reduce migraine headaches: A randomized double-blind controlled trial.
We evaluated whether B vitamins, particularly B1, B6, B12, and B9, could help reduce migraine headaches in women. This rigorous double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 120 participants who took these vitamins or a placebo for 12 weeks.
The results showed notable improvements for those taking the B vitamins, including fewer headache attacks and reduced need for medication. However, while these findings are promising, further research with larger groups and longer follow-ups is necessary to verify the effects.
Read More
8
Folate intake decreases migraine severity
Association between dietary folate intake and severe headache or migraine in adults: a cross-sectional study of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
We explored how dietary folate intake might be linked to severe headaches or migraines through a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 1999 to 2004. By examining over 4,100 adults, we observed that around 17% reported experiencing severe headaches or migraines. Importantly, our study used advanced statistical methods to ensure accurate and meaningful results.
Our findings revealed a clear relationship: higher intake of dietary folate appeared to correlate with fewer headaches. Specifically, those with higher folate intake, measured in categorized segments, had significantly lower odds of experiencing severe headaches or migraines compared to those with lower intake levels. The results suggested that as folate intake increased, the likelihood of suffering from severe headaches decreased, supporting the idea of a beneficial relationship.
In summary, our study indicated a linear negative relationship between dietary folate and headache severity, suggesting that incorporating more folate-rich foods into our diets could potentially help reduce the occurrence of migraines. This research provides valuable insights into dietary interventions for managing headache symptoms.
After 30 days of taking Now Foods Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid, I noticed a significant improvement. Initially prescribed for a deficiency revealed during thyroid treatment, I took one delicious tablet daily. Over the month, my constant drowsiness and fatigue vanished, I felt more active, and my headaches significantly diminished.
Read More
9
Effective remedy
1 people found this helpful
I really like this complex. Since starting it, my headaches have decreased and my overall well-being has improved. It's effective, and I'm buying it again.
Read More
9
Stress relief
1 people found this helpful
The cherry-flavoured tablet dissolves well under the tongue. I've taken it daily, as advised, and noticed a significant decrease in fatigue and headaches, improving my productivity during these stressful times.
Read More
9
Enhanced calmness
1 people found this helpful
The cherry-flavoured tablets dissolve under the tongue very well. I've been taking one daily with meals and noticed reduced fatigue and fewer headaches. They help ease my stress in these trying times.
Read More
9
Energy boost
1 people found this helpful
Good quality! After a week of use, my constant drowsiness and fatigue disappeared. I'm more active now, and the headaches have noticeably lessened.
A headache is a common condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It can vary in intensity, frequency, and duration, and is often classified into two primary categories: primary and secondary headaches. Primary headaches, such as tension-type headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches, are not caused by other medical conditions. Instead, they are conditions in themselves, often resulting from factors like stress, hormonal changes, or environmental triggers. Secondary headaches, on the other hand, are symptoms of an underlying issue, such as an infection, injury, or other medical conditions.
The experience of a headache can differ widely among individuals. Depending on the type, headaches can be throbbing or constant and may be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light, or aura effects before the headache strikes. Effective management strategies vary by headache type and may include over-the-counter pain relievers, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, prescription medications. Understanding the specific triggers and patterns related to your headaches can be crucial for prevention and treatment, so maintaining a headache diary may be beneficial for those experiencing frequent or severe episodes.
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several vital functions in the human body. It is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Naturally occurring in animal products, the vitamin can be found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making it particularly important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as plant-based sources of B12 are limited and often require supplementation.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues, including anemia, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage. Due to its significance, it's crucial for individuals, particularly those at risk of deficiency, to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplementation. For most adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 2.4 micrograms, though pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. If you're considering B12 supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs and health status.
Based on user reviews, results from taking Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid for headaches can vary. Several users have reported significant improvements within a week of starting the supplement, with reduced headache frequency and intensity being a common theme. For example, one user noted a reduction in headaches after just a week of use and described the pain as mild compared to before Read Review. Other users mentioned that noticeable improvements often occurred around the one-month mark, reporting a marked decrease in headaches along with increased energy and overall well-being Read Review.
Overall, while individual experiences may vary, many users found relief quite quickly, often after one to four weeks of consistent use. Some have experienced even longer-lasting benefits with continued use over two months Read Review. If you’re considering this supplement for headache relief, it may be worthwhile to monitor your progress over both the short and longer term.
Scientific research supports the potential benefits of certain B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12 and folate, in alleviating headache symptoms. A range of studies indicate that vitamin B12 deficiency is correlated with migraines and other headache disorders. For instance, a case-control study highlighted that migraine sufferers had significantly lower levels of vitamin B12 than healthy individuals, suggesting that maintaining adequate B12 levels could mitigate headache severity ([14]). Moreover, another study found that treating vitamin B12 deficiency improved symptoms, including headaches, in individuals with related conditions like cerebral venous thrombosis ([2]).
Folate has also been associated with headache relief, as evidenced by a systematic review that uncovered some evidence linking folate supplementation with migraine prevention. While individual studies show mixed results regarding the efficacy of folate alone, there is notable data indicating that higher dietary folate intake correlates with fewer headache occurrences ([12]). Thus, while further large-scale research is warranted to confirm these findings, the collective data suggests that supplements like vitamin B12 and folate may be worth considering for headache management, particularly in those who are deficient in these nutrients.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in symptoms after incorporating Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid into their daily routine. A common theme among users is a significant reduction in fatigue and headaches, often within a month of daily use. For example, one user shared that after 30 days, their constant drowsiness and fatigue vanished, alongside a marked decrease in headache frequency Read Review. Others noticed similar results, stating their headaches have lessened and overall energy improved, which in turn enhanced their productivity during stressful periods Read Review.
While many users reported these positive outcomes, individual results do vary. Some users experienced a quick alleviation of their headaches after just a week of use, with noticeable improvements in energy levels noted Read Review. Another user emphasized a more considerable improvement after two months, citing increased energy and better sleep along with reduced headache frequency Read Review. This suggests that while improvements can happen swiftly for some, others may require a longer duration to experience full benefits.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid with other supplements to manage headaches. For instance, one user highlighted that along with this vitamin complex, they plan to continue taking calcium, as it might complement their headache relief efforts Read Review. Another user who experienced headaches chronicled that the vitamin B complex not only aided in reducing their headache frequency but also helped with other health issues, suggesting a synergistic effect when taken with complementary nutrients Read Review.
Additionally, some users have noted that while they primarily relied on Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid for headache relief, they have previously utilized B12 with success in conjunction with other treatments Read Review. Overall, the user feedback suggests that combining this supplement with others may enhance its effectiveness in alleviating headaches, although users should always approach such combinations with proper dietary guidance or medical advice.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report positive outcomes from taking Vitamin B12 for headache relief when administered in doses recommended by manufacturers, typically one tablet daily. For instance, one user highlighted that after a month of taking Now Foods Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid, they experienced a significant reduction in headaches alongside increased energy levels and reduced drowsiness Read Review. Similarly, another user noted that consistent daily intake of these cherry-flavored tablets led to a marked decrease in both fatigue and headache occurrences Read Review.
Another review underlined the safety and effectiveness of a daily dose, reporting improvements in headache frequency and overall well-being Read Review. Users have referenced experiences of drastic relief from chronic headaches with long-term usage of B12, indicating that it can be a beneficial treatment. However, it’s also noted that combining it with other nutrients like calcium may enhance its effectiveness Read Review. Overall, user feedback suggests that adhering to the dosage on vitamin labels, while monitoring individual responses, is key for reaping the intended benefits against headaches.
6
Reduced headache
1 people found this helpful
Excellent product. I used it because I heard that its deficiency could lead to chronic headaches, which I was experiencing. After about a week of use, I have only felt a slight headache, a mild pain compared to before. Thank God for His grace.
9
Energy boost
1 people found this helpful
Good quality! After a week of use, my constant drowsiness and fatigue disappeared. I'm more active now, and the headaches have noticeably lessened.
0
Fatigue reduction
4 people found this helpful
Prescribed by my neurologist for headaches and fatigue, I've felt a considerable improvement after two months of taking this vitamin. My energy levels have increased, I've been sleeping better, and I plan to continue taking it.
9
Headache improvement
13 people found this helpful
After 30 days of taking Now Foods Vitamin B12 + Folic Acid, I noticed a significant improvement. Initially prescribed for a deficiency revealed during thyroid treatment, I took one delicious tablet daily. Over the month, my constant drowsiness and fatigue vanished, I felt more active, and my headaches significantly diminished.
9
Stress relief
1 people found this helpful
The cherry-flavoured tablet dissolves well under the tongue. I've taken it daily, as advised, and noticed a significant decrease in fatigue and headaches, improving my productivity during these stressful times.
9
Headaches relieved
Great vitamin; my headaches have disappeared. It is advisable to also consume calcium, so I will continue taking more.
7.5
Cold relief
I was experiencing headaches, and the Vitamin B complex helped. It also combats colds and increases blood flow.
6
Good for headaches
Sometimes, B12 has been effective for my headaches, and I have used it previously with good results.
9
Enhanced calmness
1 people found this helpful
The cherry-flavoured tablets dissolve under the tongue very well. I've been taking one daily with meals and noticed reduced fatigue and fewer headaches. They help ease my stress in these trying times.
9
Effective remedy
1 people found this helpful
I really like this complex. Since starting it, my headaches have decreased and my overall well-being has improved. It's effective, and I'm buying it again.
8
Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to migraines
The correlation between vitamin B12 serum levels and migraine: a case-control study.
We conducted a case-control study to investigate the link between vitamin B12 serum levels and migraine, which affects so many people but lacks a fully understood cause. Our research included 90 individuals experiencing migraines—split into those with chronic migraines and those with episodic migraines—matched against 90 healthy participants.
We measured vitamin B12 serum levels using a reliable testing method and explored how these levels correlated with migraine intensity, as assessed by two measuring scales. Notably, we found that migraine sufferers had significantly lower levels of vitamin B12 compared to those without migraines.
Chronic migraine patients specifically had even lower vitamin B12 levels than their episodic counterparts. Additionally, there was a noteworthy negative correlation; as vitamin B12 levels decreased, the severity of migraine attacks increased. These findings suggest that vitamin B12 deficiency may have an important relationship with migraine experiences, emphasizing the need for further studies to explore this connection in detail.
7
Cerebral venous thrombosis and treatment
A nitrous oxide abuser presenting with cerebral venous thrombosis: A case report.
We explored the case of a 25-year-old man who came to the hospital with severe headaches and dizziness. Following a diagnosis of cerebral venous thrombosis, linked to his vitamin B12 deficiency from nitrous oxide use, he received treatment that included vitamin B12 supplements.
After a week of therapy, both his headaches and vision issues notably improved, allowing for discharge. This case suggests vitamin B12 could be a helpful part of treating headaches associated with specific deficiencies.
9
Folate intake may reduce headaches
Association between dietary folate intake and severe headache among adults in the USA: a cross-sectional survey.
We examined the effects of dietary folate intake on severe headaches by analyzing data from a large national health survey. The study involved nearly 10,000 participants over the age of 20, where individuals self-reported their experiences with severe headaches.
Through sophisticated analysis methods, including multivariate logistic regression, we discovered that higher dietary folate intake appears to be associated with a lower likelihood of experiencing severe headaches. Specifically, participants who consumed more folate had significantly reduced odds of reporting severe headaches, with the most substantial impact seen in those with the highest intake levels.
Interestingly, we found that women aged 20 to 50 exhibited a non-linear association between folate and headache severity, suggesting that they might benefit from being more mindful of their folate consumption.
This research underscores the potential for dietary folate to play a protective role against severe headaches, encouraging individuals to consider increasing their folate intake for headache prevention.
References
Zhang M, Shi B, Zhao M. Cerebral venous thrombosis with hyperhomocysteinemia due to loss of heterozygosity at methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) locus: a case report. BMC Neurol. 2023;23:154. 10.1186/s12883-023-03200-y
Lin SS, Fan IW, Chen CY, Su YJ. A nitrous oxide abuser presenting with cerebral venous thrombosis: A case report. Med Int (Lond). 2022;2:20. 10.3892/mi.2022.45
Singh J, Dinkar A, Gupta P, Atam V. Vitamin B12 deficiency in northern India tertiary care: Prevalence, risk factors and clinical characteristics. J Family Med Prim Care. 2022;11:2381. 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_650_21
Nematgorgani S, Razeghi-Jahromi S, Jafari E, Togha M, Rafiee P, et al. B vitamins and their combination could reduce migraine headaches: A randomized double-blind controlled trial. Curr J Neurol. 2022;21:105. 10.18502/cjn.v21i2.10494
Arıcan P, Bozkurt O, Cavusoglu D, Gencpınar P, Haspolat S, et al. Various Neurological Symptoms with Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Posttreatment Evaluation. J Pediatr Neurosci. 2020;15:365. 10.4103/jpn.JPN_130_19
Liampas IN, Siokas V, Aloizou AM, Tsouris Z, Dastamani M, et al. Pyridoxine, folate and cobalamin for migraine: A systematic review. Acta Neurol Scand. 2020;142:108. 10.1111/ane.13251
Togha M, Razeghi Jahromi S, Ghorbani Z, Martami F, Seifishahpar M. Serum Vitamin B12 and Methylmalonic Acid Status in Migraineurs: A Case-Control Study. Headache. 2019;59:1492. 10.1111/head.13618
Strozenko LA, Ponomaryov VS, Sanina OO, Lobanov YF. [The role of genetic polymorphisms in folate metabolism genes in the manifestation of migraine in children]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 2025;125:47. 10.17116/jnevro202512501147
Zhao D, Long X, Wang J. Association between dietary folate intake and severe headache or migraine in adults: a cross-sectional study of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Front Nutr. 2024;11:1456502. 10.3389/fnut.2024.1456502
Luwen H, Ping C, Qing-Rong O, Lei X, Linlin L, et al. Association between serum folate levels and migraine or severe headaches: A nationwide cross-sectional study. Medicine (Baltimore). 2024;103:e40458. 10.1097/MD.0000000000040458
Tian S, Yu X, Wu L, Zheng H, Zhong X, et al. Vitamin B and folate intake are associated with lower risk of severe headache or migraine in adults: An analysis based on NHANES 1999-2004. Nutr Res. 2024;121:51. 10.1016/j.nutres.2023.11.008
Tian S, Wu L, Zheng H, Zhong X, Liu M, et al. Association between dietary folate intake and severe headache among adults in the USA: a cross-sectional survey. Br J Nutr. 2024;131:438. 10.1017/S000711452300137X
Aydin H, Bucak IH, Geyik M. Vitamin B12 and folic acid levels in pediatric migraine patients. Acta Neurol Belg. 2021;121:1741. 10.1007/s13760-020-01491-3
Abdelsadek SE, Tahoun SA, Mansour FM, Abdulsalam MF, Ahmed AM. The correlation between vitamin B12 serum levels and migraine: a case-control study. Neurol Res. 2025;47:195. 10.1080/01616412.2025.2462735