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Fibromyalgia, Magnesium and Candidiasis

Aug 19, 2011 | By Alicia Miller
Fibromyalgia, Magnesium and Candidiasis
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Fibromyalgia is a chronic, often-debilitating syndrome that can cause impairments to your ability to function and decreases your overall sense of well-being. Additionally, many people with fibromyalgia suffer from candidiasis, a type of yeast overgrowth that can either cause or exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. In both fibromyalgia and candidiasis, magnesium deficiencies are likely to occur and can further worsen your condition. Some research has shown that magnesium supplementation can benefit patients suffering from fibromyalgia and also improve symptoms of candidiasis. Consult your doctor before using any dietary supplements.

About Fibromyalgia

Although widespread, chronic pain is the defining characteristic of fibromyalgia, a number of additional, troublesome symptoms also usually are present. These symptoms include fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, bladder problems, cognitive difficulty, problems with coordination and frequent yeast infections. Additionally, a magnesium deficiency is often associated with fibromyalgia, according to clinical nutritionist Krisipin Sullivan in an article for her website. While a number of treatments can offer relief from symptoms of fibromyalgia, some research has shown that magnesium supplementation can also provide benefits.

Candidiasis and Fibromyalgia

While everyone has the yeast known as candida in their bodies, not everyone develops an imbalance. An overgrowth of candida can trigger an over-reaction by your immune system causing a number of possible health problems, including fibromyalgia. In their book, "The Everything Health Guide to Fibromyalgia," (see ref. 2 p. 131) authors Winnie Yu and Dr. Michael M. McNett point out that while yeast can cause symptoms of fibromyalgia, experts aren't entirely sure why this occurs. One theory is that yeast releases toxic substances that can interfere with the normal operation of your thyroid, metabolic and nervous system functioning.

Importance of Magnesium

Magnesium is a crucial mineral for maintaining proper health. A deficiency of magnesium can cause fatigue, sleep problems, immune disorders and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. In fact, a study published in 1994 in the "Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine" found that patients with fibromyalgia had significantly lower red blood cell magnesium levels than control group participants. Magnesium deficiency may also play a role in the development of candidiasis, according to author Sherridon L. Stock in a clinical review article published in 1993 in the "International Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine."

Considerations

Magnesium therapy is thought to improve symptoms of fibromyalgia, including chronic pain, according to a 1992 study published in the "Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine." Additionally, author Stock points out that magnesium may help to correct candida imbalances. However, you should never use any nutritional supplement to self-treat your symptoms. Consult your physician to discuss your condition and to obtain treatment advice. If you choose to use a magnesium supplement, inform your doctor.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Aug 19, 2011

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