For those who suffer from fibromyalgia, it’s no surprise that the word itself comes from the Greek terms for “muscle” and “pain.”
Fibromyalgia (FM) causes a host of symptoms, ranging from intense pain and fatigue to sleep, memory, and mood issues. Recent research shows FM is linked to an autoimmune response that causes intense inflammation.
Recognizing Fibromyalgia
Symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
- excruciating muscle pain
- digestive difficulties
- thyroid and hormone imbalances
- chronic headaches
- anxiety or depression
- trouble sleeping
The whole body is affected by fibromyalgia, making even the most common daily activities agonizing for FM sufferers, and symptoms often worsen with stress.
It’s only in recent years that the medical community has begun to widely recognize this often debilitating disorder and offer patients more comprehensive care.
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What to Do About FM
Because there is such a wide spectrum of symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, it can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
However, recent studies show that FM symptoms are often worse for people who are overweight or obese. Food sensitivities also frequently accompany fibromyalgia, including non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
That means changing your diet to eliminate inflammatory foods can be an excellent way to address your FM symptoms naturally.
To get started, here are 6 smart, healthy nutrition and fitness tips:
Go low Sugar Impact
Women with fibromyalgia are 5.5 times more likely to have metabolic syndrome, a cluster of issues that can lead to heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
With such a clear link established between fibromyalgia and consistently elevated blood sugar, the logical first step for anyone with FM is to follow a low Sugar Impact eating plan.
That means eliminating most sweeteners, especially fructose and artificial anything. (For help cutting out sugar painlessly, check out the Breakthrough Carb Intolerance Online Program.)
Add Omega-3s
While doctors still don’t understand the exact role inflammation plays in fibromyalgia, many agree there is a connection. (The FM patients I know definitely don’t question whether inflammation is involved.) A diet high in beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy blood sugar and a normal inflammatory response, especially for those who are overweight.
Wild-caught salmon, freshly ground flaxseed, and slow-roasted walnuts are all great options to increase Omega-3s in your diet, and so is adding a quality fish oil supplement.*
Think Gluten Free
There’s a major overlap between gluten sensitivity and fibromyalgia, so cutting out gluten can be an excellent natural way to take action against FM symptoms.
Avoid wheat, gluten, rye, and triticale in your diet. If you need some ideas for quick and easy gluten-free options, take a look at this blog.
Exercise Regularly
I know this can sound like a big ask for anyone dealing with fibromyalgia joint and muscle pain or fatigue. However, research proves that consistent activity can improve quality of life and physical ability for FM patients.
Try low-impact, strength-building exercises such as yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics for the best results. Read this blog to find out how to get a quick, effective workout that can lower your stress hormones without spending exhausting hours at the gym.
Make Quality Sleep a Priority
Fibromyalgia often causes sleep issues, so it may require deliberate action to get the quality 7–9 hours your body needs every night.
Close the kitchen 3 hours before bedtime, and keep your bedroom quiet and calming. Put away electronic devices at least an hour before you hit the hay, too. Studies show the light from digital screens can keep your brain from resting a long time after you close your laptop.
Trade your phone for a good (not great) book and focus on getting some quality ZZZs. (
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Eliminate Stress
Living with a chronic, painful condition takes its toll. But increased stress hormones can cause further inflammation, not to mention issues with weight gain and blood sugar imbalance that can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms.
It’s vital that you take steps to reduce stress. Make time for prayer or meditation, a chat with your bestie, or your favorite hobby. Here are my Top 6 Ways to Naturally Reduce Stress.
Regardless of whether or not you have a long-term health condition like fibromyalgia, when it comes to your health it’s important to address what you can control first. Instead of focusing on your limitations, follow these proactive steps so you can work toward feeling better every day.
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The views in this blog by JJ Virgin should never be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please work with a healthcare practitioner concerning any medical problem or concern. The information here is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition. Statements contained here have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.