Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome that causes joint and muscle pain, stiffness, headaches, fatigue, loss of mental clarity and sensitivity to touch, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Mood swings, depression and anxiety also typically accompany fibromyalgia. While there is no cure for this condition, diet is an essential part of managing fibromyalgia -- certain foods may improve or worsen symptoms. Check with your doctor if you plan to change your diet to address fibromyalgia symptoms.
Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates are found in foods such as whole-grain cereals, whole-wheat pastas and breads, legumes, beans and brown rice. These foods provide building blocks for manufacturing healthy muscle, bone, organ and connective tissue cells, according to Dr. Joe Elrod, author of the book, "Reversing Fibromyalgia." They also provide energy for your body, and may help combat fatigue and insomnia associated with this condition.
Animal Products
Animal products, which include red meats, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products, may worsen pain, joint stiffness and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. These foods are loaded with saturated fats. These fats may increase inflammation in your muscles and connective tissues, according to Dr. James Balch and Mark Stengler, authors of the book, "Prescription for Natural Cures." These foods may also contribute to insomnia, particularly if you consume animal products before bedtime. Saturated fats also restrict circulation by raising blood cholesterol, contributing to fatigue and depriving your muscles and organs of essential nutrients.
Lean Proteins
Like complex carbohydrates, lean proteins are sources of energy for your body and mind, according to Dr. Elrod. They also aid in the repair of organs and muscle tissues, which may ease pain that accompanies fibromyalgia. Lean proteins include black beans, lentils, tofu, pistachios, hazelnuts and tempeh, a meat substitute made from fermented soybeans.
Refined Sugars
Refined sugars are found in numerous snack foods, including ice cream, cakes, pies, chocolate, candies, snack crackers, pastries and doughnuts. Foods containing refined sugars may worsen fibromyalgia symptoms by causing energy crashes and disturbing sleep, according to Balch and Stengler. Refined sugars may also increase joint and muscle pain by weakening your immune system, allowing bacterial and viral infections to attack your muscle, ligament and bone cells.
References
- Prescription for Natural Cures; James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D.; 2004
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fibromyalgia
- Reversing Fibromyalgia; Dr. Joe M. Elrod; 2002
