Can Dietary Supplements Improve Inflammatory Biomarkers and Clinical Symptoms in Migraine? A Narrative Review

Abstract

This narrative review examines the extent to which non-pharmacological dietary supplements influence inflammatory and oxidative pathways in migraine and how these changes translate to clinical improvements. A total of 26 clinical trials published up to May 2025 were included, focusing on omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), vitamin D, selenium, zinc, and probiotics. These compounds modulated cytokine production, reduced oxidative markers, and enhanced antioxidant defenses. Clinical outcomes—including headache frequency, severity, and duration—improved across studies, even in individuals with mild baseline inflammation, highlighting subclinical processes. Combination approaches with multiple agents showed greater efficacy in biochemical and clinical parameters. Gut–brain axis interventions (probiotics/prebiotics) yielded promising but variable results. Targeted dietary and bioactive interventions appear to improve migraine outcomes by modulating inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms. Their consistent clinical benefits support their potential as adjunctive strategies alongside standard pharmacological treatments.