Fibromyalgia is a painful disorder, which is still misunderstood as far as the scope of modern medicine. Some of the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia include fatigue, pain in the muscles and joints, swelling of the joints, digestive problems and hypoglycemia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, although there are medications which can help to alleviate some of the symptoms, for example, painkillers. Medicines used to treat the symptoms of fibromyalgia can be expensive and often have side effects. An easier and safer way to treat fibromyalgia is through a proper diet. While some foods can make pain and fatigue worse, other foods can make a person with fibromyalgia feel better.
Blueberries
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that fruits like blueberries contain antioxidants, which help promote healing throughout the body. While people with fibromyalgia often have low immune system function, and get sick easily, the National Fibromyalgia Association states that the phytochemicals found in blueberries can boost the immune system and even help to reduce pain in people with fibromyalgia.
Fish
Fish contain healthy, unsaturated fats that can help to decrease inflammation and swelling of the joints associated with fibromyalgia. The National Fibromyalgia Association further explains that fatty fish, such as salmon, halibut, mackerel and tilefish, contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory qualities. Fish is also high in protein so the National Fibromyalgia Association explains that it can help to prevent and combat the hypoglycemic effects of fibromyalgia.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent choice of food for people with fibromyalgia. Not only is yogurt rich in protein, but it also contains healthy bacteria called probiotics. The University of Maryland Medical Center also states that the probiotcs found in yogurt can help increase the function of the immune system and also decrease gastrointestinal distress that sometimes occurs with fibromyalgia. They recommend looking for a yogurt which has as many live, active cultures, such as lactobacillus acidophilius, as possible.
Chicken Breasts
The Weston A. Price Foundation says that many people who have fibromyalgia also have hypoglycemia, which is a problem metabolizing carbohydrates. While carbohydrates give most people energy, they can make a person with hypoglycemia feel weak, tired and dizzy. Therefore, the Weston A. Price Foundation recommends getting plenty of lean protein, with foods like chicken breasts. Chicken breasts do not have any carbohydrates, and the protein they contain can energize a person with fibromyalgia.
