Fibromyalgia is a chronic and incurable condition that involves symptoms such as widespread pain and severe fatigue. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that people with fibromyalgia also deal with a host of other symptoms, including digestion problems, stiffness in the joints, headaches and depression. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown and there is no known cure. Changing eating habits, however, can help to relieve some of the symptoms associated with this condition.
Purpose
While most people with fibromyalgia are given medications such as painkillers and even steroids to treat the symptoms, diet can also have a big impact. Dietary habits can help to reduce inflammation of the joints and also minimize pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Therefore, whether or not you take medications, a good diet can be included in your treatment plan to reduce symptoms.
Fruits and Vegetables
According to the Fibromyalgia Network, people with fibromyalgia should eat as many fruits and vegetables as possible in order to boost the immune system and reduce pain. Fruits and vegetables such as berries, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and apples are rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce oxidative damage to the cells, which causes pain and fatigue.
Healthy Fats
In the standard American diet, there are many fats from foods like butter, meat, dairy and fried foods. These foods can promote inflammation and cause pain levels to worsen. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that people with fibromyalgia eat more unsaturated fats from foods such as walnuts, flaxseed and salmon, as these types of healthy fats can lubricate the joints and decrease pain in the body.
Foods to Avoid
A few types of foods which should be avoided in order to minimize fibromyalgia symptoms. For example, the Fibromyalgia Network recommends avoiding artificial sweeteners and processed foods with chemicals, which can cause headaches and joint pain. Refined grains like pasta and white bread should be limited and replaced by whole grains, which better stabilize blood sugar levels.
Supplements
In addition to eating healthy, supplements can also help to relieve some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that fibromyalgia patients take a multivitamin and vitamin C supplement every day, since they contain antioxidants that can boost the immune system, and probiotic supplements such as lactobacillus acidophilus, which can improve immune system function and relieve digestive problems.
