Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition affecting about 5 million adults in the United States, according to Phyllis Balch, C.N.C, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Although there is no known cause, stress, infection, injury and genetics may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia. Diet cannot cure fibromyalgia, but it may help relieve symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain and lack of mental clarity. Simple breakfast choices provides energy and helps manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Juice
Choose fresh juice instead of coffee to start your day. Apples, oranges, carrots, pomegranates, strawberries, tangerines and kiwi fruit make great fresh juice, offering antioxidant vitamins C and A that help prevent free-radical damage to your nerves, brain, muscles and connective tissues. This may reduce muscle pain, depression and mental fatigue associated with fibromyalgia, according to Balch. Choosing juice instead of coffee eliminates caffeine that increases inflammation.
Egg White Breakfast Sandwich
An egg white breakfast sandwich provides protein for energy without the saturated fats found in whole eggs. Saturated fats elevates low-density lipoproteins in your bloodstream, according to MayoClinic.com. This can cause arterial blockages that impede blood circulation, inhibiting the supply of oxygen and nutrients to your brain and muscles. Fry the whites of one or two eggs in 1 tbsp. of olive oil and place on a whole-wheat English muffin with low-fat cheese for a protein-rich breakfast entree.
Soy Meat Replacement
Opt for soy sausage or bacon instead of breakfast meats that are loaded with saturated fats. Like egg whites, soy meat replacements are rich sources of protein. This provides energy to help combat fatigue and improve mental function. It is also necessary for the repair of muscle and connective tissue cells, which may help ease the pain and stiffness of fibromyalgia, according to Balch.
Options
Egg white frittatas or omelets add variety to your breakfasts. Add freshly-diced vegetables, such as spinach leaves, onions, garlic, broccoli or asparagus to obtain vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, calcium and vitamin C. These vitamins and minerals are immune system boosters that ward off infections that damage your muscles, organs and connective tissues, according to Balch. Oatmeal topped with 1 tbsp. of flax oil makes a simple, protein-rich breakfast entree to start your day.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary Fats
Member Comments