Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes symptoms of general pain, fatigue and points of tenderness in various locations on the body. This disorder is little understood and can be difficult to treat. In most cases, medication helps to reduce pain in the muscles, joints and other areas, as well as related symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and digestive disorders. Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men, and the condition varies between patients in onset, duration progression and severity. The causes of this disorder are not known. However, food sensitivities and food triggers are thought to cause or worsen symptoms in some people. Learn which foods to avoid to help treat fibromyalgia naturally.
Step 1
Increase foods in your diet that are high in antioxidants. These include richly colored fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, cherries and grapes, and vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant and kale. These antioxidant-rich vegetables help to decrease inflammation in the body, which may help reduce pain and tenderness due to fibromyalgia.
Step 2
Remove possible food allergens from your diet. Keep a detailed diary and record your daily diet and the symptoms you experience throughout the day. Do not eat likely food allergens, such wheat or gluten, soy and soy products, dairy, tomatoes and chemical food additives. Also consult your doctor about testing for possible food allergies and sensitivities. These may cause flare-ups in the immune system that make you more sensitive to pain and fatigue.
Step 3
Use healthy nonhydrogenated vegetable oils, such as canola oil, sunflower oil, olive oil and linseed oil in foods and cooking. To help decrease symptoms of fibromyalgia, eliminate or reduce trans-fatty acids, such as those found in deep-fried foods, store-bought baked goods, processed foods and margarine.
Step 4
Stay hydrated by drinking up to 8 glasses of water daily to increase metabolism and energy and keep away fatigue symptoms in fibromyalgia. Drink other fluids, such as tea, but avoid sugary drinks that depress the immune system. Avoid coffee and caffeinated beverages that can cause dehydration.
Tips and Warnings
- Take supplements to enhance a balanced diet and address any nutritional deficiencies. Include antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin E, vitamin C and vitamin D, as well as a B-complex vitamin for improved energy and blood circulation. Herbal supplements that decrease inflammation, such as flax seed, may also help.
- Fibromyalgia includes a range of symptoms and varies in the degree of severity. Although this condition is not life-threatening, it can be debilitating and must be treated by a healthcare professional. Self-care and diet are very important, but they should not replace prescribed treatment and regular medical check-ups.
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