Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects virtually every part of a person's life. The condition can be so debilitating for some people that it causes loss of work and disability. There is still no cure for fibromyalgia, and many people take painkillers and other prescription medications to try to deal with the symptoms. But many times side effects from medications are more detrimental than any relief provided. By changing your diet and nutrition habits, you may be able to improve your fibromyalgia symptoms and perhaps your quality of life.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), people with fibromyalgia suffer from widespread pain in many different "trigger points" throughout their body. Other common symptoms of fibromyalgia include extreme fatigue and depression. There are so many different symptoms of fibromyalgia that it is very confusing for patients to understand what is going on with their bodies at times. Yet the right foods can improve most if not all these symptoms.
Fruits and Vegetables
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help to relieve symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, according to the Fibromyalgia Network, which states that fruits and vegetables provide the body with antioxidants that reduce free radical damage that occurs to tissues and cells every day. The antioxidants in fruits and vegetables have also been shown to reduce pain levels and promote energy, according to the Fibromyalgia Network. Many doctors recommend eating five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, yet eating even more can be especially beneficial for those with fibromyalgia.
Chemical Additives
Another recommendation from the Fibromyalgia Network is to reduce the amount of chemicals and preservatives consumed in the diet. The reason is that many people with fibromyalgia are sensitive to chemicals and get side effects such as headaches from them. Additionally, the Fibromyalgia Network states that chemicals such as artificial sweeteners tend to exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms, especially pain and fatigue.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a healthy type of fat that is found in fish, olive oil and certain nuts. According to UMMC, consuming foods with omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common reason for joint and muscle pain in fibromyalgia. Foods like walnuts and flaxseeds both contain omega-3 fatty acids and may reduce the risk of such other diseases as colitis and diabetes, which could make fibromyalgia more difficult to manage.
Animal Fats
UMMC recommends that patients with fibromyalgia not only eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, but also limit their intake of fat from animal sources. They state that vegetarian diets have been found to reduce pain and other symptoms of the condition. While a vegetarian diet is not necessary, choosing to eat lower fat choices like chicken and fish instead of bacon and steaks may help to reduce fibromyalgia symptoms. Vegetarian sources of protein that are also acceptable in a diet for fibromyalgia include beans, nuts, lentils and tofu.
