Fibromyalgia, also known as fibrositis, is a condition that involves widespread pain and fatigue throughout the body. It particularly affects muscle and tissue surrounding joints. Symptoms such as pain, fatigue, sleep difficulty, depression, anxiety and headache may be treated through medication, physical therapy, relaxation techniques or lifestyle changes. A healthy dietary lifestyle can play a significant role in managing symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Plant-based Diet
A plant-based diet---primarily consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds---provides a variety of important nutrients, including vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help support a healthy immune system. Experts at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) suggest a diet rich in plant-based foods and limited or devoid of red meat as a means of improving wellness for those with fibromyalgia. Such a lifestyle is also high in dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and weight management, and is associated with reduced risk for cardiovascular and other diseases.
If you are interested in a plant-based diet, increase fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Choose colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables to reap the most nutritional benefits. Depend upon legumes such as beans and lentils and soy products for protein. Plant-based does not necessarily mean vegetarian. Fish and lean protein can fit healthfully within a plant-based diet and provide important nutrients, such as B vitamins and healthy fats (found in fatty fish such as salmon and tuna).
Elimination Diet
Another diet that may help improve wellness for those with fibromyalgia is known as an elimination diet, in which common food allergens such as wheat and dairy are restricted from the diet, according to UMMC. If you have fibromyalgia and feel your symptoms may worsen in response to particular foods, consider restricting dairy, wheat, gluten (a protein found in wheat and rye), soy and corn products from your diet. If your symptoms alleviate once these foods are removed, you may have a food intolerance or allergy.
While partaking in an elimination diet, make efforts to incorporate a variety of nutritious foods, to make up for nutrient loss from avoiding some whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Once symptoms dissipate and/or an allergen is determined, some foods may be reintroduced to your diet. For best results, seek care and supervision from a trusted dietary or medical professional to ensure personal safety and wellness.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Anti-inflammatory diets incorporate foods that reduce inflammation and enhance overall wellness. Such diets are recommended for those with chronic pain or inflammation. According to natural health expert, Dr. Andrew Weil, a healthy anti-inflammatory diet contains fresh foods such as ample fruits and vegetables, whole grains, starchy vegetables, healthy fats and low-fat protein sources. He recommends reducing red meat intake and depending upon plant-based protein such as beans and legumes, as well as fatty fish, which provide omega-3 fats, essential fats the body can't produce on its own.
To adhere to an anti-inflammatory diet, increase nutrient-dense, fresh foods in your diet and avoid processed foods, such as white flour, sugar and deep-fried foods. In addition to reducing pain and inflammation, an anti-inflammatory diet is designed to promote positive energy balance, digestive health and improved nutrient intake, says Weil.
