Fibromyalgia is a painful, complicated condition that affects millions of Americans. Though some people with fibromyalgia feel the only way to control their pain is with medications, a person's nutritional status may also affect their pain levels. Proper nutrition can help a person with fibromyalgia feel better.
What is Fibromyalgia?
According to the Hospital for Special Surgery, fibromyalgia causes joint pain and tenderness along with other symptoms like fatigue, headaches and depression. Though the etiology of fibromyalgia is unknown, the Hospital for Special Surgery states that it is five to ten times more common in women than it is in men. They state that treatment usually includes medication, massage therapy and acupuncture, though changing the diet is also helpful.
Problem-Causing Foods
According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, some people with fibromyalgia feel better if they eliminate chocolate, sodas, coffee and alcohol from their diet. This may be because of their effect on blood sugar levels. In addition, some of the foods that may trigger pain, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association, are sugar, white flour, fried foods and dairy products. These foods and beverages do not need to be completely eliminated by people with fibromyalgia, but they should be limited when possible.
Fruits and Vegetables
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a healthy diet for anyone, but is especially important for people with fibromyalgia. The National Fibromyalgia Association states that phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables help to heal the body of inflammation, decrease pain and prevent other diseases. For example, they state that flavonoids in foods like apples and grapes reduce joint swelling while protecting against heart disease. Also, carotenoids, which are in leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits, may help to reduce some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia while protecting against lung cancer and skin cancer.
Raw Foods
Raw foods provide exceptionally good nutrition and may boost a person's immune system, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association. The association explains that eating raw foods like fruits, uncooked vegetables and nuts can help to maintain steady white blood cell counts so that the body is strong to fight off the effects of fibromyalgia.
The Best Diet for Fibromyalgia
The National Fibromyalgia Association recommends that people with fibromyalgia drink at least eight glasses of water each day and eat a well-balanced diet. While fruits and vegetables are healthy, especially when eaten raw, people with fibromyalgia also need protein from foods like meats and beans, healthy fats from foods like avocados and olive oil and fiber-rich whole grains.
