Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome that has no known cause, although infection, sleep problems, hormonal changes, injury and genetics may play a role in triggering this condition. Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain in your muscles, headaches and joint stiffness. Depression, gastrointestinal problems and fatigue also frequently accompany fibromyalgia. Although vitamins cannot cure this syndrome, increasing your intake of certain vitamins may help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a well-known immune system booster that may prevent bacteria, fungi and viruses from attacking your body, which may help prevent muscle aches and fibromyalgia-related illness. This vitamin is also an antioxidant that may prevent lipids and free radicals in your bloodstream from attacking your organs, connective tissues and muscles -- this may also help reduce pain and stiffness. The calming effects of vitamin C may help relieve mood problems related to fibromyalgia, according to nutritional expert Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Increase your intake of vitamin C by consuming broccoli, spinach, kiwi fruit, strawberries, blueberries and citrus fruits.
Vitamin E
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that may help prevent free radical damage to muscles and connective tissues, according to Dr. Joe Elrod, health consultant and author of "Reversing Fibromyalgia." This vitamin may also improve blood circulation to your brain, which may reduce "fibro fog," a chronic state of mental confusion associated with fibromyalgia. Enhanced brain circulation may also increase supply of oxygen and nutrients your brain needs to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter chemical that regulates mood. Vitamin E is found in eggs, spinach, kale, alfalfa sprouts, walnuts, brown rice and pumpkin seeds.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6, also known as pyridoxine, enhances your body's ability to metabolize and use proteins and carbohydrates from food sources. Carbohydrates and protein serve as fuel for your body and may help reduce fibromyalgia-related fatigue, according to Balch. Vitamin B-6 may also have a calming effect on your central nervous system. Boost your vitamin B-6 intake by consuming poultry, fish, sunflower seeds, green peas and avocados.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption and use of calcium, a mineral needed for bone strength. This may help reduce bone and joint pain that is common among fibromyalgia sufferers. Vitamin D may also help relieve fibromyalgia-related depression, particularly if you do not receive at least 30 minutes of direct sunlight per day. Your body makes vitamin D when you are exposed to sunlight. It is also found in eggs, milk, tuna, salmon, oatmeal and sweet potatoes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fibromyalgia
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- "Reversing Fibromyalgia"; Dr. Joe M. Elrod; 2002
