Irregular meal and migraine headache: a scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Migraines are a type of headache, with certain types being more severe than others. The aim of this scoping review is to map the association between migraine headache and irregular meals, including skipping meals or missed diets and fasting.

Methods: The six-stages methodological framework of Arksey & O'Malley for scoping reviews was used. A protocol was registered on OSF on November 17, 2024 ( https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/Z8C7M ) as OSF preregistration for Generalized Systematic Review Registration. Searches were made from the Cochrane Library, Research for Life, PQD Evidence, Global Index Medicus, Scopus, and MEDLINE databases. To make comprehensive searches, Google Scholar, Google, and grey literature sources, including databases of relevant organizations, were searched. Only studies published in English without a date limit were considered. Screening and data extraction were conducted by two groups of reviewers independently.

Result: Thirty-six studies were included in this review. It includes systematic reviews, randomized placebo-control trials, cohort studies, literature reviews, chart reviews, case control studies, case studies, and cross-sectional studies. Some studies found no clear link between meal omission and migraines, with mixed evidence on the role of dietary factors as triggers. But the majority of studies suggest that fasting and skipping meals, especially breakfast, can trigger migraines by reducing brain glucose levels and causing hypoglycemia, a known trigger. The timing of meals is crucial, as missed meals can provoke different types of migraines, including retinal and abdominal migraines. Moreover, irregular meal patterns, particularly in those with chronic migraines, are strong predictors of attacks. Consistent and balanced meals help to prevent migraines and manage symptoms.

Conclusion: While few studies show mixed evidence, the majority indicate that fasting or skipping meals can trigger migraines. Regular, balanced meals benefit preventing and managing migraines, as irregular meal patterns are predictors of migraine attacks. Moreover, some studies have low to moderate methodological quality, often lacking rigorous control groups and randomization. Thus, it is recommended to draw conclusions from interventional research having longitudinal research with better sample sizes.

Keywords: Fasting; Irregular meals; Migraine headache; Missed diets; Skipping meals.

Fig. 1

PRISMA flow diagram for the scoping review process