Most Important Supplements With Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic pain, tenderness or pain in multiple points on the body, fatigue, sleep problems, cognitive difficulties and emotional distress. Because there is no cure, treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and restoring function. Certain supplements may help. However, fibromyalgia is a complex disorder that should be managed by a qualified health care professional. See your physician about your options for treatment.

Lecithin

In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Phyllis Balch states that lecithin is an essential supplement for fibromyalgia. Lecithin helps fibromyalgia patients by enhancing cognitive function, improving circulation, boosting energy and enhancing immunity. Used as a food additive as well as a supplement, lecithin is a fatty substance found in every cell of the body. Lecithin is typically derived from soy, but it can also be produced from grains, brewer's yeast and wheat germ. It is an excellent source of linoleic acid, inositol and the B vitamin choline. Consult a qualified health care provider before adding lecithin to your regimen.

Grape Seed and Pine Bark Extract

It is very important that those with fibromyalgia use either grape seed or pine bark extract. Both of these supplements are potent immunity-enhancing antioxidants that protect the muscles from being damaged by free radicals, according to Balch. Generated from natural bodily processes and from exposure to chemicals, radiation, cigarette smoke and pollutants, free radicals are highly reactive molecules that have been implicated in many chronic diseases. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine cautions that antioxidant supplements should not be regarded as substitutes for a nutritious diet or conventional medical care.

5-HTP

5-hydroxytryptophan plays a key role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in fibromyalgia pain and mood disorders. Synthesized within the body, it is not available from the usual food sources. Supplements for 5-HTP are made from an African herb called Griffonia simplicifolia. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that several preliminary studies have demonstrated 5-HTP's effectiveness in easing fibromylagia-related anxiety, morning stiffness, pain and fatigue. It is also frequently recommended for depression. Some studies have suggested that it may work as well in depression as certain conventional antidepressants, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Larger trials are needed to find out if 5-HTP is safe for long-term use. Use this supplement under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.