Women with migraines may want to consider supplements that limit the risk of cardiovascular conditions, according to new research that finds that the two diseases are related.

Scientists at INSERM in France looked at about 28,000 female healthcare professionals in America aged 45 and over that had participated in a study where they were monitored for various health outcomes over 12 years.

They found that the rates of stroke and cardiovascular disease increased by up to four times in women who had migraines with "auras" or perception changes at least once per week.

One option for women who suffer from migraines and want to limit their risk for reduced heart health could be eliminating antioxidant deficiencies through the use of supplements, according to researchers at the Cleveland Clinic.

They found that patients who did not have enough antioxidants in their diet were more likely to have thicker veins and an increase in blood pressure.

"Antioxidant augmentation in patients might be used to increase nitric oxide vasodilator effects and reduce pulmonary artery pressures," said lead author Dr Serpil Erzurum.