Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain disorder that affects millions of Americans, especially women. According to MayoClinic.com, symptoms of fibromyalgia include muscle pain, fatigue, sleeping problems and mood changes. There is no cure for fibromyalgia so many patients are prescribed medications to control the symptoms. An important yet sometimes overlooked factor in treatment is the link between fibromyalgia and diet.
Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals damage the body's tissues. The more oxidative stress you are exposed to, the more likely you are to have pain, according to the Fibromyalgia Network. People with fibromyalgia should eat as many fruits and vegetables as possible in order to help combat this problem. The Fibromyalgia Network explains that fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, such as malic acid, which is in apples. These antioxidants fight free radical damage and therefore, may reduce pain levels.
Food Allergens
Not all fibromyalgia patients have food allergies, but many of them do. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that wheat, dairy, corn and soy can all trigger allergic reactions or food sensitivities in people with fibromyalgia. Allergic reactions can lead to major problems like breathing difficulties, while food sensitivities are typically manifested in the digestive system as gas, diarrhea and stomach pain. People with fibromyalgia may want to ask their doctors to test them for food allergens.
Packaged Foods and Preservatives
Since people with fibromyalgia experience frequent bouts of fatigue, it can be difficult for them to cook healthy meals. Packaged foods tend to be easier to grab than making home cooked meals. Yet eating packaged foods may worsen some of your symptoms of fibromyalgia. The Fibromyalgia Network states that chemicals and preservatives in food can cause or worsen pain. Preservatives are in foods like jerky, crackers, energy bars, cereal, canned soups and frozen entrees. People with fibromyalgia can be especially sensitive to artificial sweeteners such as Equal and NutraSweet, typically found in diet sodas and sugar-free desserts.
Supplementation
Eating healthy may not be enough for fibromyalgia patients to handle their symptoms without medications. Supplementation is an important link between fibromyalgia symptoms and relief. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that omega-3 fatty acids can help boost the immune system, while melatonin may help support healthy sleep patterns. Even simple vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitamin D may improve muscular and skeletal strength, while making up for some of the things that are lacking in your diet.
