If you experience migraines, you know they’re far more than a simple headache. One episode can derail an entire day with pounding pain, nausea, visual disturbances, and sensitivity to light and sound. You may retreat to a dark room, cancel plans, and struggle to process even the simplest tasks. And just when you think relief is in sight, another attack can strike.
For many people, migraine management becomes a lifelong balancing act of medications, lifestyle changes, and trial-and-error solutions that don’t always provide meaningful or lasting relief. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, NAD+ therapy has emerged as a valuable possibility for migraine support. This coenzyme plays a critical role in cellular function, and early research suggests it may influence neurological pathways associated with migraines.
What are migraines?
Migraines are a complex neurological condition characterized by recurring, intense headaches that can last hours or even days. While pain is a hallmark symptom, migraines often come with nausea, vomiting, dizziness, intolerance to light or sound, aura-like visual changes, or difficulty concentrating. Unlike tension headaches, migraines typically disrupt normal function and may cycle through distinct stages, including prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome phases.
What makes migraines particularly challenging is their unpredictable nature. Some people experience clear triggers, such as stress, hormonal shifts, changes in sleep, dehydration, or certain foods, while others have spontaneous attacks without any identifiable cause. Genetics, mitochondrial dysfunction, and brain energy deficits have all been linked to migraines.
Can NAD+ help with migraines?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) therapy involves supplementing your body's levels of NAD+, a naturally occurring molecule essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular health. NAD+ levels decline with age, chronic stress, and illness, potentially affecting neurological function and mitochondrial efficiency, which are linked to migraine activity.
Although NAD+ therapy is still considered experimental for migraines, growing case studies and preliminary research point to promising outcomes. Researchers are now exploring how restoring NAD+ may influence the biological processes that contribute to migraine attacks. Below are the various ways that NAD+ therapy may help with migraines.
It may support mitochondrial function
Your brain consumes more energy than any other organ, and when its energy-producing pathways falter, neurons may become more sensitive to migraines. NAD+ plays a critical role in mitochondrial energy metabolism, helping cells convert nutrients into usable fuel. By supporting mitochondrial function, NAD+ therapy may improve cellular energy output, potentially reducing the frequency or intensity of migraines linked to neurological energy deficits.
It may improve blood flow and vascular health
Migraines often involve changes in cerebral blood flow. Some research suggests that NAD+ precursors, compounds your body uses to build NAD+, can positively affect vascular dilation and circulation. When blood flow patterns stabilize, the brain may become less susceptible to the fluctuations that trigger migraine pain. Although more clinical trials are needed, these findings align with case reports showing that individuals who received NAD+ experienced significant relief from migraine episodes.
It may optimize nervous system signaling
Your brain relies on a delicate chemical balance to regulate sensory perception. NAD+ supports cellular repair and communication processes, including those involving neurotransmitters. By reinforcing these pathways, NAD+ may help stabilize neurological signaling patterns associated with migraine onset. Some individuals also report improved mood and reduced anxiety alongside migraine improvement.
It may help reduce brain fog and fatigue
Many people with migraines struggle not only with pain but also with lingering fatigue and cognitive sluggishness. NAD+ helps fuel essential processes that allow your brain to repair itself and maintain mental clarity. By restoring NAD+, your body may better support post-migraine recovery, helping you feel more energized and mentally clear between episodes.
Additional tips to help mitigate migraines:
- Identify personal triggers such as stress, sleep changes, or specific foods
- Maintain consistent sleep patterns to support neurological balance
- Stay hydrated throughout the day to prevent dehydration-induced attacks
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake when sensitive to vasoactive substances
- Manage stress proactively through mindfulness, exercise, or breathing techniques
- Eat regular, balanced meals to avoid blood sugar fluctuations
- Create a calming sleep environment free from bright lights and screens
- Use cold or warm compresses during early symptoms to ease discomfort
- Practice gentle stretching or movement to reduce muscle tension
- Track symptoms and patterns in a migraine diary to guide future prevention
Should you consider NAD+ therapy for migraines?
NAD+ therapy offers a novel possibility for people seeking alternatives to traditional migraine medications. Early case studies have shown individuals with decades-long migraine histories experiencing dramatic improvements, even in cases where other treatments failed.
Migraines can take an enormous toll on your health and quality of life. While not a cure-all, NAD+ therapy may offer a compelling option for those who feel stuck in a cycle of temporary fixes and recurring symptoms. If you're curious whether NAD+ could play a role in your migraine management, Genesis Lifestyle Medicine can help you explore your options. Contact us today.
