Thanks for the question!There's a saying that the gut is your second brain, and it is a good way to start thinking about the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication, meaning the activity and functioning of one can affect the other, between these regions of our bodies.

An unhealthy, or “dysbiotic” as it is referred to in the field, gut microbiome can lead to changes in the communication occurring along the gut-brain axis. A person can develop a dysbiotic microbiome from an unhealthy diet, the development of some diseases, or high amounts of stress, to name a few. One way an unhealthy gut microbiome can lead to the development of headaches and migraines is through increased inflammation. The unhealthy gut microbiome can lead to an increased production of pro-inflammatory compounds in the gut and an increased permeability of the gut lining. The compounds are then able to affect other parts of the body, such as the brain. Many of the pro-inflammatory compounds released have also been implicated in the development of migraines.

To help reduce migraines, you can implement lifestyle changes that are associated with a healthier microbiome state. We gave some suggestions to improve your gut microbiome in another question.

-RM