Effects of Co-supplementation with alpha-linolenic acid and L-carnitine on inflammatory status and oxidative stress in women with migraine: A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

Migraine is associated with inflammation and oxidative imbalance. This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and L-carnitine co-supplementation on inflammatory status and oxidative stress in 80 women with migraine. Serum markers were measured before and after the intervention. Compared to placebo, ALA and L-carnitine co-supplementation significantly reduced nitric oxide (-6.10; 95 CI (-9.08, -3.12) vs. 1.77; 95 CI (-3.21, 6.76) nmol/mL, P = 0.038), malondialdehyde (-5.47; 95 CI (-6.33, -4.62) vs. -0.15; 95 CI (-0.50, -0.20) nmol/mL, P = 0.011), and C-reactive protein (-0.44; 95 CI (-0.47, -0.41) vs. -0.02; 95 CI (-0.05, 0.007) mg/L, P = 0.007) levels. It also increased total antioxidant capacity (185.60; 95 CI (159.69, 211.50) vs. 5.22; 95 CI (-29.21, 39.66) nmol/mL, P = 0.045) and superoxide dismutase activity (301.42; 95 CI (230.63, 372.21) vs. 15.20; 95 CI (-8.15, 38.55) U/mL, P = 0.009), suggesting potential benefits for migraine management.