Is Migraine an Evolutionary Defence Mechanism?
Why do some of us have brains that overreact to triggers—like bright lights, strong smells, or certain compounds in food—causing headaches or full-blown migraines, while others remain unaffected? Could it be that the so-called “migraine brain” isn’t a flaw at all, but an ancient survival feature?
It is well established that the “migraine brain,” or what could be termed the “super brain,” is highly sensitive to compounds that the body deems toxic. When exposed to certain chemicals, foods, or environmental factors, this brain triggers an immune-like response to warn the organism of potential harm.
Neuro-imaging and sensory-threshold studies show that people with migraine demonstrate heightened activity in sensory processing hubs—particularly the thalamo-cortical circuits that filter sights, sounds, smells, and pain signals.
Unlike a typical brain which gradually learns to ignore a stimulus that keeps happening with no consequences– the migraine brain does not- it stays on high alert, primed to flag anything it interprets as dangerous and toxic.
This intense sensitivity may well be an evolutionary trait developed for survival. In ancient environments, early detection of toxins — through heightened sensitivity to smells, tastes, or atmospheric changes — would have provided a critical advantage.
Individuals with a “super brain” often possess enhanced senses, including sharper smell, taste, and vision. These super senses would have enabled them to detect spoiled food, poisonous plants, or environmental threats faster and more accurately than others, increasing their chances of survival.
Although in modern society this same sensitivity can manifest as chronic conditions like migraines, food intolerances, or chemical sensitivities, it is likely a reflection of an ancient biological strategy: to protect the organism by amplifying the perception of danger before actual damage occurs.
Harnessing Your Super Brain
If you have a highly sensitive brain, you’re not just different — you’re exceptional.
Your brain processes information more deeply, reacts more swiftly to changes, and perceives patterns that others may miss. This isn’t just a trait — it’s a neurological superpower. But like any powerful system, it requires thoughtful maintenance and care to function at its best.
Let your strengths guide your path with the following tips:
- Embrace your potential – People with sensitive brains often report heightened intuition, vivid imagination, and strong pattern recognition. These aren’t side effects — they’re strengths. Whether you express them through art, innovation, strategy, or empathy, your brain is wired for brilliance.
- Track your inner barometer. – Your brain is sensitive to subtle internal and external shifts. Use the ‘Migraine Diary‘ to identify your unique “triggers” — whether it’s specific foods, sleep disruptions, stress patterns, or hormonal changes. These aren’t just inconveniences; they’re signals from a high-performance system under strain.
- Build your brain’s resilience – Stress is inevitable, and when you’re naturally sensitive, unaddressed tension can magnify symptoms. Prioritise quality sleep, eat regular, choose nutrient-dense meals, practice mindfulness, use targeted natural therapies to strengthen your body’s resilience, and keep your nervous system grounded.
What makes your super brain?
KICK THAT MIGRAINE is a powerful guide that helps you unlock your super brain and gain the clarity and control you need to take charge of your migraines—once and for all.