The fibromyalgia diet is used by sufferers in an effort to relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia, a debilitating condition with a range of symptoms including but not limited to chronic pain, spasms, swelling, and stiffness in the muscles and joints throughout the body. Unfortunately treatment is limited as the underlying cause is still unknown.
It has been noted too that people with
fibromyalgia may also have gut problems such as irritable bowel syndrome and up
to 90 per cent of sufferers may also experience fatigue, both of which respond
well to dietary intervention.
Initially it may be
beneficial to keep a food diary to try and isolate foods that appear to worsen
symptoms. The way in which people respond to certain foods can often be individual,
so what can be tolerated in some people may cause an increase in symptoms in
others. In general a few dietary ‘rules’ are applied rather than a strict
outline of what should and shouldn’t be eaten.
The first of these is to aim for wholefoods
rather than processed, not only do whole foods contain more essential nutrients
but lack potentially harmful additives. Avoiding these additives is another
major component of the diet; common food ‘enhancers’ such as MSG and aspartame
have recently been linked to increased sensitivity to pain. Eliminating added
sugars, salts and processed oils too can have a positive effect.
Another ‘rule’ is to increase fruit and vegetable intake, particularly those containing vitamins A, C, and E, known for their antioxidant properties. For the same reason omega-3 containing fatty fish is also encouraged, it is believed that oxidative stress occurs when cell-damaging free radicals build up due to insufficient antioxidant presence.
Some advocates believe raw and vegan is the key to success when treating fibromyalgia, however it is important to note that the iron and B12 found in red meat can be beneficial in maintaining healthy blood cell formation and normal nerve function, for this reason too, an increase in leafy green vegetables is also encouraged.
Click here for a fibromyalgia diet plan.
Anyone diagnosed with or suspecting they may be suffering from fibromyalgia should examine their diet and consider making some positive changes as part of a holistic treatment plan. Losing weight has also shown to provide some relief as joint pressure is often relieved.
Adopting a healthy balanced diet high in
naturally sourced plant and animal products in including moderate amounts of
lean red meat, fatty fish, whole grains, legumes and antioxidant containing
colourful fruits and vegetables can help improve general health, boost
immunity, regulate a healthy weight and possibly alleviate some symptoms.
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