Fibromyalgia causes long-term, body-wide pain as well as tenderness in the joints, tendons, muscles and other soft tissue. Its cause is unknown, but oxidative damage from free radical levels might play a role in this health condition. Acai has a theoretical benefit for preventing and alleviating fibromyalgia pain due to its antioxidant content. Consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan if you suspect you have fibromyalgia and before trying any new dietary supplement.
Hypothesis
Fibromyalgia might be an oxidative disorder caused by increased free radical levels, according to an April 2005 “Rheumatology International” study. Oxidant and antioxidant balances are changed in people who have fibromyalgia, according to lead study author S. Bagis. Levels of malondialdehyde, a toxic metabolite of lipid peroxidation that is a marker of free radical damage, are significantly higher. Meanwhile, levels of superoxide dismutase, an intracellular antioxidant enzyme that demonstrates antioxidant capacity, are significantly lower. This finding supports the hypothesis that fibromyalgia is actually an oxidative disorder, according to Bagis. This hypothesis is far from proven, however, and more research is needed.
Antioxidant Actiity
Acai has antioxidant effects by scavenging reactive oxygen species. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. When you consume acai juice or pulp, you absorb chemicals called anthocyanins, which raise your antioxidant capacity. Antioxidants protect cells in your body from oxidation, or the damaging effects of chemical reactions with oxygen. According to MedlinePlus, acai appears to have higher antioxidant content than blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries or strawberries.
Scientific Evidence
While acai has theoretical benefits for numerous health conditions including fibromyalgia and arthritis – and for improving health in general – there is insufficient scientific evidence to rate acia’s effectiveness for any of these uses as of 2011, according to MedlinePlus. There’s also not enough information to determine whether acai interacts with medications, herbs or other supplements or to determine if it is safe to use during pregnancy. There’s no standard effective dosage.
Considerations
Other prevention and treatment options for fibromyalgia exist aside from boosting antioxidant status with acai. Physical therapy, an exercise and fitness program and stress relief such as light massage and relaxation techniques are commonly prescribed. Your doctor may prescribe drugs such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, antiseizure medication and sleeping aids or cognitive-behavioral therapy and acupuncture. Avoiding caffeine, eating a well-balanced diet and getting good sleep also are common recommendations. This health issue is sometimes linked to sleep problems, fatigue, headaches, anxiety or depression, according to PubMed Health.
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