Fibromyalgia, a condition without a known cause and affecting mostly women, presents with a variety of symptoms including fatigue, insomnia or other sleep abnormalities, and widespread muscle tenderness. The symptom picture can be significant enough to interfere with a person's quality of life, and the frustration of dealing with this problem has led many to seek information on alternative and complementary approaches to treatment. Numerous studies and empirical evidence has shown that the appropriate use of supplements can be extremely beneficial.
Magnesium
Low levels of intracellular magnesium appears to be a factor in some cases of fibromyalgia. Magnesium plays a role in hundreds of reactions in the body, and consequently, inadequate consumption, which is a common problem, can result in a wide variety of health problems including fibromyalgia. The type of magnesium may play a role in its effectiveness. Although debated, chelated forms appear to be better utilized by the body. Magnesium chelates or magnesium malate are good choices. Excess magnesium intake will result in a laxative affect so it should be taken in divided doses.
Malic Acid
Malic acid is derived from apples and has been shown to be beneficial in patients with fibromyalgia. Over ten years ago, an article in the "Annuals of Internal Medicine" recommended the use of malic acid in managing fibromyalgia. Malic acid appears to work in conjunction with magnesium and as such, these should be taken together.
5-HTP
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a metabolite of tryptophan and a precursor to serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, and a deficiency appears to play a role in fibromyalgia. Additionally, serotonin can help improve sleep, which is beneficial for people dealing with fibromyalgia.
SAM-e
Double blind studies have shown SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) to offer substantial benefit to patients with fibromyalgia. SAMe is a naturally occurring compound that our body produces on an ongoing basis, but a deficiency may occur in the presence of certain nutritional deficiencies. Enteric coated SAMe is better absorbed.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D deficiency is a national problem with research showing the majority of the population to be significantly vitamin D deficient. This is especially true the further north someone lives. Vitamin D deficiency has been strongly linked to many health problems including cancer, depression, diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Recent research has found vitamin D deficiency to be involved in myofascial pain syndromes as well. Myofascial pain syndrome may be a precursor to fibromyalgia, and some authorities consider them one in the same. Vitamin D3 is the preferred form as it is the most biologically active form.
References
- Fibromyalgia
- "Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements"; Michael Murray, ND; 1996
