Improving Diet For Fibromyalgia Prevention

By Elaine Guthrie


Living with fibromyalgia can be quite difficult, because it is quite the ghost of an ailment. Very often, people don't even believe that one is sick because of the various symptoms a patient could experience, and it's almost invisible in conventional testing. However, it affects millions of people, most of which are women. Below, learn more about this health condition, and how to improve diet for fibromyalgia prevention.

Firstly, there are patients who experience the strangest aches and in different parts of their bodies. These aches and pains differ from one patient to another. At times, they could experience stiffness, or aching sensations, but very often, it's an intense daily chronic pain that they must live with. With the pain that they experience throughout the day and night, their sleep is also affected, making fatigue another common issue among sufferers. If that's not enough, they also have to deal with numerous digestive problems, depression and headaches.

The diagnosis can be complicated, and doctors need to rule out other types of disorders and illnesses beforehand. These would include thyroid issues, autoimmune disorders, anemia and arthritis, among others. Moreover, an official diagnosis comes with identifying a minimum of 11 out of 18 pain areas in the body.

Generally, people are treated using acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medications. For those who experience extreme fatigue, antidepressants are prescribed which can help to promote sleep and therefore combat fatigue. Many natural remedies are also recommended, through exercise and meditation.

The diet of the average North American can also be the culprit in the rise of this condition. This could be especially true for those who are in northern regions, where there vitamin D levels are too low. There has been a link between low levels of vitamin D and fibromyalgia pain. For starters, vitamin D deficiency leads to muscle and bone pain. Before increasing the vitamin D dosage, speak to a healthcare provider.

All too often, patients that suffer from this condition have numerous digestive problems. The majority of them have irritable bowel symptoms and experience upset stomach and diarrhea on a regular basis. Keep track of all foods eaten and avoid those that trigger the symptoms. As such, most would find that it would be best to avoid caffeine, cruciferous vegetables and very rich meals.

It's also important to increase fiber intake, which is generally quite low in the average North American diet. For anyone suffering from tummy conditions, peppermint oil supplements can really help. That said, those who do suffer from this condition are generally at risk of poor nutrition because they don't have the strength or will to cook healthy meals when they are not feeling well. Therefore, on the good days, they should be preparing numerous meals that can be stored in the freezer and available at any time.

Also, try to avoid foods that are high in sodium. Other foods to avoid are fried foods. As everyone experiences different symptoms, it's important to monitor them as closely as possible. The food log suggested above is highly recommended, as some foods may trigger symptoms and flareups. By all means, when up to it, add physical fitness to the recipe. Never overdo it, but get active, even if that means five minutes a day. Physical activity can keep joints and muscles healthier and stronger. Walking is a good moderate form of exercise that can reduce symptoms.




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