Energy & Fibromyalgia Supplements

Fibromyalgia -- a common syndrome in which you experience prolonged, diffuse pain and joint tenderness -- is linked with several other health problems, including decreased energy levels, depression and fatigue. MedlinePlus notes that this disorder often appears in women and that the underlying cause of this painful and long-lasting condition is unknown. Certain nutritional supplements may help treat your fibromyalgia and your flagging energy levels, but you should avoid using supplements until you speak with your doctor.

Fibromyalgia Background

Several risk factors may boost your chances of developing fibromyalgia and decreased energy levels, states MayoClinic.com, including a family history of fibromyalgia, being female, and having a rheumatic disease such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Fibromyalgia most commonly affects the muscles of your lower back, neck, shoulders, posterior head, upper chest and thighs, although any area of your body may develop the tender points that are characteristic of this condition.

Fibromyalgia Supplements

Numerous nutritional supplements have traditionally been used in treating fibromyalgia and the low energy levels that may be associated with this relatively common condition. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," reports that vitamin C, magnesium, Siberian ginseng and licorice may be helpful in treating fibromyalgia and fatigue. Other supplements that may be helpful for these health purposes include nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NADH; garlic; and vitamin B complex. More research may be required to support the use of some of these supplements in treating fibromyalgia and fatigue.

Highlighted Supplement

Siberian ginseng is a dietary supplement that has long been used in treating fibromyalgia and low energy levels. Pizzorno notes that Siberian ginseng, also known as Eleutherococcus senticosus, helps support your adrenal glands, helps treat chronic fatigue syndrome and is a nonspecific adaptogen, which means that it helps your body cope with various types of stress. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that Siberian ginseng may also used in treating colds and flu.

Considerations

Fibromyalgia and low energy levels commonly occur simultaneously, although these health problems may occur independent of one another. In many cases, both health problems will respond to complementary alternative and conventional allopathic treatments. If you are considering using dietary supplements in treating your fibromyalgia and low energy levels, always review supplement-related issues with your doctor beforehand, including how to use supplements and what health outcomes you can expect.