Nutrition and Fibromyalgia

As with any condition, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is necessary to ensure that your body is able to cope with symptoms and effects of fibromyalgia. Although there is not a great deal of information offered by the scientific community as to the effects of nutrition and fibromyalgia, it does appear that there are some foods that others have found may trigger symptoms of the illness.

Some of the common foods that cause people with fibromyalgia to see their symptoms worsen include:

* Fried foods or foods that are especially high in saturated fats.
* Food that contains a high amount of calories.
* Preservatives, salt and junk food.
* Nutrasweet (aspartame), saccharine and monosodium glutamate (MSG). Some of these ingredients have been proven to stimulate pain receptors located in your spinal cord.
* Some red meat like salt cured bacon.
* High fat dairy foods.
* White sugar and white flour.
* Refined sugar.
* Alcohol.
* Chocolate and other sugary foods.
* Coffee and caffeinated tea.
* Carbonated beverages.
* Tobacco products.

It is important to practice good eating habits which can lead to overall health in the body. Some guidelines that are good to follow when suffering from fibromyalgia are:

Raising serotonin levels, which is a neurotransmitter involved in many brain processes such as pain perception, regulating sleep and general feelings of well being in the body. Some good sources that can help to raise serotonin levels include foods that are rich in carbohydrates, especially when taken before bed; complex carbohydrates like grains, beans and many other starchy foods; and dark chocolate (in very small amounts).

Get enough protein. Some experts are questioning whether some of the tissue abnormalities that go along with fibromyalgia may get worse or even be caused because of a lack of protein in the diet. Also, eating recommended levels of protein can help to alleviate some of the pain and stiffness.

Try to avoid drinking fluids with meals. Some people find that following this guideline helps to relieve some symptoms.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day – at least 8 glasses.

Avoid being in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.

Everyone will find certain foods that trigger their own symptoms, and they will need to learn what they can eat and what they need to avoid. Eating a healthy diet is always important, but even more so when the person is suffering from fibromyalgia. Finding foods that help to keep energy levels higher, and that can help to relieve some of the symptoms is sometimes a matter of trial and error for each individual. It is important to understand that the effects of proper nutrition and fibromyalgia can help to keep the symptoms of the condition at a manageable level, and allow the person to lead a relatively normal lifestyle.