Fibromyalgia is a chronic medical condition that can cause a variety of symptoms. It is still not well understood, and it is difficult to treat. Fibromyalgia affects each person differently. Some patients have mild symptoms, while become disabled. There are various medications and lifestyle options that may help to manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Dietary changes can be part of an overall treatment plan for fibromyalgia. Always consult your physician regarding any remedy to treat a serious health condition.
Identification
Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, insomnia, headaches and other symptoms. The exact cause of the condition is still not known, however, it may be linked to genetics or triggered by an infection or stressful event, states the Mayo Clinic. Individuals with this condition may have overactive nervous systems and higher levels of certain pain chemicals in the body. These factors may lead to the body becoming oversensitive to pain.
Warnings
According to the Medline Plus website, there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, and patients should be wary of any program that promises a cure. However, there are medications, lifestyle changes and alternative medicine options that may help to manage symptoms. Narcotics, anti-inflammatory and anti-depressant medications and others may be required. Regular exercise and dietary changes can also help manage this condition. While none of the above can cure fibromyalgia, they may help a patient remain more active and independent.
Considerations
While much more research is needed to understand the link between nutrition and fibromyalgia, there appear to be foods that exacerbate symptoms in some patients. The National Fibromyalgia Association suggests eliminating or cutting back on refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, processed foods and red meat. These foods may irritate the muscles further and inhibit the activity of the immune system.
Not all of these foods cause problems in all patients, so it may be necessary to go through a trial period of cutting out a particular food for a month to see if your symptoms improve. Then add the food back and see if your symptoms get worse. It may take some time, but this method can help identify trigger foods.
Benefits
There are also foods that may help fight inflammation and therefore reduce symptoms. The National Fibromyalgia Association recommends adding raw or lightly cooked fruits and vegetables, low fat poultry, ginger, turmeric, green apples and fish oils into your daily diet.
In addition, there is some indication that using the Myers Cocktail, which is a vitamin/mineral combination administered intravenously, may help support the immune system and reduce symptoms. The first step is to talk to a doctor or registered dietitian who is familiar with the challenges of treating fibromyalgia to find the best nutritional plan based on your individual health.
Solution
To best manage any chronic condition, including fibromyalgia, it is important to eat a healthy, well balanced diet. Focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Your diet should be low in fat and refined and processed foods. It is also helpful to watch calorie intake. Extra pounds can place extra pressure on painful joints and muscles and make symptoms worse. Part of your overall nutritional plan should be to cut back on calories if weight loss is necessary, and to eat just enough calories to maintain a healthy weight.
