The Body and Health website describes fibromyalgia as a chronic pain in the fibrous tissues of the body. Fibromyalgia affects the muscles, ligaments and tendons causing aching, stiffness and tenderness. Diet can affect the symptoms of fibromyalgia. According to "The Fibromyalgia Cookbook," research has shown that almost half of fibromyalgia patients attempt dietary changes, and many report this as a helpful approach.
Consume Whole Foods
Whole foods are foods that are fresh and have not been preserved, modified or altered by chemicals or food additives. Whole foods provide the antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and nutrients that fibromyalgia patients need. Sources of whole grains are rice, buckwheat, spelt, barley and quinoa. Other whole foods to consume are fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, wild fish and free-range chicken.
Limit Wheat, Sugar and Dairy
Wheat, sugar and dairy are all acid-forming, inflammatory foods and may intensify fibromyalgia symptoms. In the book "The pH Miracle," authors Robert and Shelley Young say that when an acid overload is too great for the blood to balance, the excess acid is dumped in tissues. This irritation can lead to inflammation, fatigue and chronic health issues. Alternatively, experiment with grains such as spelt or rye, soy or rice based foods and natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup and agave nectar.
Increase Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
A diet that is filled with a variety of fruits and vegetables is helpful for fibromyalgia. Each fruit and vegetable contains several vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help nourish an ailing body. Fruits and vegetables also act as anti-inflammatories. According to the "Nutrition Journal," because of their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of chronic disease.
Eat Foods High in Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that helps relax the nerves and muscles. According to the Pro Health website, magnesium is a common deficiency in the general population but even more so in patients with fibromyalgia. It also says that symptoms of low magnesium in fibromyalgia include increased fatigue, spasms and pain. Foods that are high in magnesium are nuts, dark green vegetables, seafood, soy beans, whole-grain breads and cereals and nuts.
References
- Body and Health: The Facts on Fibromyalgia
- "The Fibromyalgia Cookbook"; Shelley Ann Smith; 2002
- Nutrition Journal: Both Common and Specialty Mushrooms Inhibit Adhesion Molecule Expression and In Vitro Binding of Monocytes to Human Aortic Endothelial Cells in a Pro-inflammatory Environment
- ProHealth: Fibromyalgia Nutrition Basics: Common Deficiencies, Symptoms, and Supplement Strategies
- "The pH Miracle"; Robert and Shelley Young; 2002
