What the Science Says About Food & Migraine


Key Questions
  • Why does the topic of food and migraine generate so much confusion and contradictory advice?
  • How has research into diet and migraine evolved in recent years?
  • What does the evidence show regarding the ketogenic diet for migraine, and for whom is it most suitable?
  • What are the findings of studies on diets high in omega-3 and low in omega-6 fats, and how can these be implemented?
  • What is the rationale for low-glycemic diets in migraine management, and what does this eating pattern involve?
  • ​​What are the considerations regarding gluten in the context of migraine?
  • What role can whole-food, plant-based diets play in managing migraine?
  • Which three supplements have the most supporting evidence for migraine prevention?
  • What are the recommendations regarding the forms of magnesium supplementation?
  • What are the suggested first steps for an individual looking to improve their diet for migraine management?
  • What constitutes a balanced and sustainable, migraine-friendly plate for most people?
photo of a woman with short dark brown hair and glasses

Margaret Slavin, PhD, RDN

Associate Professor of Nutrition & Food Science
University of Maryland, College Park

Dr. Margaret Slavin is an associate professor of nutrition and food science at the University of Maryland, College Park, and a registered dietitian recognized for her pioneering work at the intersection of nutrition, food science, and neurological health.

Her research explores how diet influences migraine and other brain-related conditions, focusing on the bidirectional relationship between nutrition and migraine, the gut microbiome, and food bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and other polyphenols. Dr. Slavin’s studies range from clinical interventions to molecular and population-level analyses, offering a comprehensive view of how diet affects migraine outcomes and overall well-being.

A widely published researcher and educator, Dr. Slavin’s work is helping to advance evidence-based dietary strategies for people living with migraine and deepen scientific understanding of how food impacts brain health.

Pre-purchase full access to the entire 2026 Summit, including:

  • Every 2026 expert interview, fully unlocked
  • Built for real life with migraine
  • A trusted reference you can come back to for years
  • And more!
Access Pass options

Related Talks for: Day 4 (2026)

Navigating the Migraine Chaos That Begins During Perimenopause

Jan Lewis Brandes, MD

The Coalition For Headache And Migraine Patients (CHAMP) is an organization that provides support to people with headache, migraine and cluster diseases who are often stigmatized and under-served.

Learn more

View more/less

Leave a comment


Back to top

Loading...