Published:
07/05/2011 04:29pm
Diets for Fibromyalgia
A specific fibromyalgia diet for each person with fibromyalgia does not exist. However, a common denominator for all fibromyalgia cases is inflammation. Diet that decreases inflammation in the body is the key. The challenge is that foods behave differently for all people. What is inflammatory for one person may be anti-inflammatory for another.
Food Sensitivity Diet
A type of diet to consider if you have fibromyalgia is a diet based on the results of a blood test that measures the degree of inflammation in the body to certain foods and chemicals, known as mediator release testing or MRT. A diet specific to the results of the MRT is created. Foods that are inflammatory for you are taken out of the diet in order to allow the inflammation to subside. It is hoped when the inflammation subsides, the symptoms associated with your fibromyalgia symptoms will lessen as well. Registered dietitians create specific elimination diets for their patients based on the results of blood tests, explains "Today's Dietitian."
Foods to Avoid and Include
The type of fat consumed is an important part of reducing inflammatory foods. Omega-3 fatty acids, a healthy fat, are anti-inflammatory, especially in comparison to foods high in saturated fat, according to the website RD411.com. Substantially reducing or eliminating trans fats and saturated fat from the diet is mandatory since these fats provoke inflammation. Some artificial sweeteners found in soft drinks such as aspartame stimulate nerve cells and should be avoided. Lots of water, fresh fruits and vegetables, probiotics and whole grains are foods to include in a diet for fibromyalgia, according to RD411.com. Taking a multi-vitamin can ensure adequate intake of nutrients. Avoid or limit, alcohol, coffee, refined sugars and carbohydrates and high-salt foods.
Research on Fibromyalgia and Diet
Research studies on fibromyalgia are addressing the need for specific diet recommendations. A study published in the 2000 "Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology" followed 18 patients with fibromyalgia for three months who consumed a strict, low-salt diet rich in raw vegetables and probiotics. Study participants experienced significant improvements in the quality of sleep and joint stiffness and a reduction in overall pain.
Research on Vegan Diet for Fibromyalgia
For some, a vegan diet is effective in pain reduction, as seen in a November 2000 study in the journal "Toxicology." This study used a vegan diet consisting of berries, nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables and roots to improve fibromyalgia symptoms. Abundant provision of calories, fat and carbohydrate were consumed at 1829 calories, 71 g protein, 276 g carbohydrate and 63 g of fat. The diet offered no cholesterol, little saturated fat and lots of healthy unsaturated fats. Results of following the diet indicated a decrease of joint and pain stiffness for the participants. Researchers speculate improvements were likely observed as a result of the abundance of antioxidants in the diet.
