Much as Magnesium's role in migraine management has been spoken about, Calcium has almost always figured as an also-ran.
But Calcium intake, it's effective metabolization and absorption are just as important as Magnesium balance in your food.
Calcium is known to have anti-spasmodic action, which helps alleviate headaches and migraines.
However, studies have shown that when calcium is administered along with Vitamin D, it reduces the frequency of migraines in a considerable number of patients.
Recent studies have also concluded that abnormalities in the channels within the cells that transport calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium contribute to the onset of migraines.
The condition of abnormalities in calcium channels is called calcium channelopathy.
Calcium channelopathy may be a physical abnormality in the calcium channel or it can be an anomaly in the opening and closing rhythm of the calcium channels.
The calcium channels are known to regulate the release of serotonin.
With impaired functioning of the channels, serotonin may not be effectively released or may be released in low quantities.
This would contribute towards migraine occurrences.
The RDA for Calcium in women of the age group 18- 50 is approximately 1000 mg and between 1000-1300 mg for pregnant and lactating women.
For post-menopausal women the RDA is set at about 1500 mg.
However, any supplement or drug should be had with consultation with your physician.
Self-medication is a dangerous practice and can have fatal outcomes.
Calcium absorption reduces with aging and is dependent on a variety of factors such as genetics, availability of Vitamin D, intake of Vitamin C among others.