Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition with no known cure and no clear cause, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The condition also manifests differently in each individual sufferer, making your symptom management needs unique to you. With no clear traditional medical choice for a cure available, alternative medicine and lifestyle changes are your main options for help. This can include adopting a special diet, but the exact content of a fibromyalgia diet is not universally set.
Speculations
Due to the unknown elements of fibromyalgia, speculation about what will help or hurt fibromyalgia sufferers has led to dietary recommendations that vary widely. MayoClinic.com notes that many of these recommendations are based strictly on anecdotal rather than scientific evidence. The University of Michigan Health System reports that studies have suggested vegan diets and all-natural diets may be helpful for some individuals, and the University of Maryland Medical Center notes that a nutrition improvement approach may help others.
Stimulants, Additives and Sweeteners
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that since fibromyalgia is characterized by a heightened sensitivity, elimination of items known to cause or contribute to food sensitivity may be helpful. The University of Michigan Health System states that eliminating the additive MSG and the sweetener aspartame has been shown to improve symptoms, and the National Fibromyalgia Association recommends a diet free of artificial stimulants such as caffeine.
Supplements
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, including supplements in your fibromyalgia diet may help reduce symptoms. The list of nutritional supplements which may benefit you starts with a daily multivitamin and continues into rare trace elements for energy, sleep regulation and muscle support. Working with your health professional to establish your current nutrient levels and needs will help you determine which nutritional supplements will offer the greatest benefit to your case of fibromyalgia.
Benefits
The benefits of a specially designed fibromyalgia diet include better personal functionality and higher energy levels. The National Fibromyalgia Association notes that some diets can break a dependency on sugar and stimulants to function, while the University of Michigan Health System notes that a fibromyalgia diet can lower pain levels and improve quality of life.
Considerations
MayoClinic.com recommends a positive attitude and a willingness to try multiple solutions in order to find the best outcome for fibromyalgia relief, and designing your own unique fibromyalgia diet is no exception.
