Does Glutamic Acid Cause Migraines?

A derangement of GABA may be an important factor in the occurrence of migraine attacks and their recurrence, whereas high level of glutamic acid may represent a biochemical marker of the neuronal hyperexcitability that may be the underlying cause of the aura.

Can glutamate cause migraines?

Studies demonstrating increased levels of glutamate in migraine patients are supported by the effects of orally administered monosodium glutamate. Although the reported effects of monosodium glutamate vary considerably, multiple studies have found that administration of monosodium glutamate can evoke headache [15, 16].

Why does glutamate cause headaches?

The mechanism behind MSG-induced headaches is not fully understood. MSG is an excitatory amino acid that binds to MNDA receptions in the brain. This activation leads to the release of nitric oxide, which then leads to the dilation or widening of blood vessels around the skull.