Fibromyalgia is a condition that tends to produce different symptoms in each person. Most experience muscle pain and tenderness, but some also suffer from symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, sleep problems, anxiety, depression and poor physical balance. Fibromyalgia is an idiopathic condition, which means that the exact cause of this condition is not known, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, food choices may affect the severity of fibromyalgia symptoms. Check with your doctor, though, before adding foods to your diet to address the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Raw Foods
Consume raw fruits and vegetables. According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," a diet consisting of 50 percent raw fruits and vegetables may help ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These foods contain antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamins A and C, which may help protect muscle and joint cells from damage. These vitamins also help boost the immune system.
Tofu
Tofu is a lean protein replacement for fatty red meats, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This food is made from soybean milk, which is loaded with lean soy protein. Replacing fatty meats with tofu can help reduce your intake of saturated fats, which may help reduce pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Lean protein also provides energy to combat fatigue.
Whole Grains
Choose whole-grain products, such as whole-wheat pasta and multi-grain breads and bagels. Whole grains are loaded with complex carbohydrates, which are converted into glucose at a slow, consistent rate, according to the Balches. This can help provide energy throughout the day, reducing the periods of fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Avoid white breads and pastas, which can contribute to glucose spikes. Rapid increases in blood glucose are typically followed by crashes, which result in fatigue.
Garlic
According to the Balches, garlic is an important immune system enhancer that also can help increase energy. Add garlic to stir-fry dishes and other foods to help combat immunity problems and low energy, which are common among people with fibromyalgia.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fibromyalgia
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 1997
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