3 Ways to Reduce Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

1. Eat to Treat

It is becoming more and more widely accepted that many foods can intensify symptoms of fibromyalgia and at the same time weaken immune systems. These foods should be avoided by anyone suffering from fibromyalgia.
These foods include: alcohol, which can trigger flare-ups of pain symptoms; caffeine, which can stress the adrenal glands which are already stressed from the fibromyalgia itself; sugar, which also stresses the adrenal glands, increasing adrenalin circulation throughout the body, thus causing increased stress and risk for anxiety attacks; and processed foods, which have been shown to elicit and increase widespread pain and swelling.
Foods that should be included in your diet include raw vegetables which contain antioxidants and other ingredients that boost your immune system; Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which come primarily from fish and serve to diminish nerve sensitivity and improve memory and thought processes, and water which helps to purify the body's systems and improve oxygen circulation.

2. Keep Moving

One of the most important things any fibromyalgia sufferer can do is to keep the body moving. Exercise is critical to maintaining joint mobility and minimizing muscle stiffness. This can be a monumental task for those suffering the symptoms of fibromyalgia, but bearing up under the discomfort has its benefits.
Exercises that are beneficial include low impact aerobic activities such as walking, swimming and biking. Remember to stretch properly before attempting any exercise activity. Exercising should be implemented on a gradual basis, eventually working up to approximately 30 minutes a day, three days a week.

3. Laugh It Off!

It has been widely acknowledged that laughter has some pretty amazing health benefits, and fibromyalgia, with its daily fatigue-inducing pain, is no stranger to these benefits.
There are many ways in which laughter can bring about positive influences in overall health and well being. Not surprising, laughter has been found to improve mood, end even productivity and work performance.
Laughter has been shown to reduces the level of potentially negative hormones that get released during the "stress response"; increases the body's production of antibodies that combat upper respiratory diseases; increases pain tolerance levels; and strengthens the immune system. So when life gives you a pain, laugh it off!