Fibromyalgia: foods to eat and foods to avoid

By Penni Jones
Better Living Staff Writer  

The CDC estimates that 5 million Americans are living with the chronic widespread pain condition fibromyalgia. The specific cause remains unknown, and treatment can be elusive. According to founder and president of the National Fibromyalgia Association Lynne Matallana, the most important thing for Fibromyalgia patients to do is to improve their overall health and well-being, and proper diet is an important factor for easing fibromyalgia symptoms. 

AVOID

Additives: MSG, aspartame, and other additives can increase sensitivity to pain. Avoid processed foods when possible, and be sure to read those labels!

Caffeine: Many fibromyalgia sufferers have trouble sleeping. You might want to reach for coffee to combat your fatigue, but caffeine can add to the problem by interfering with sleep patterns.  Use lean protein for your go-to fatigue-fighter instead.

ENJOY

Omega-3s: Fatty fish, flaxseed, and walnuts all include this inflammation-reducing fatty acid. Reducing inflammation means reducing soreness.

Fruits and veggies: Most fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants which fight free radicals to keep your body normalized.

Vitamin D: D boosts your immune system. The easiest way to get D is from sun exposure (but not enough to burn). A supplement helps during the winter or other times you just can’t get outside. 

For other ideas on alleviating your fibromyalgia symptoms, contact Better Living at 734.747.0123.

http://www.everydayhealth.com/fibromyalgia-pictures/eat-well-to-help-fibromyalgia.aspx#04http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/fibromyalgia.htm

http://www.fmaware.org/