Saturday, June 20, 2015

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.

Those who suffer from fibromyalgia are often prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen. To help promote sleep and combat the feelings of extreme fatigue, antidepressants may also be prescribed. Alternatively, people are opting for natural remedies that include exercise and medication.

Very often, the diet of the North American people is the number one culprit. One particular problem is the low levels of vitamin D that is found in most patients. Obviously, those who live in northern areas where there is limited sunlight, will be at a greater risk. Vitamin D is important for muscles and bones, and low levels of this vital vitamin could be putting people at risk. However, it is important to speak to a doctor before upping the dosage.

Digestive problems are another symptom of this sickness. As many as 70% have irritable bowel syndrome. As such, it's important to keep track of one's diet, and what's eaten and what may trigger one's symptoms. For the most part, caffeine and cruciferous vegetables should be avoided.

It's also important to increase one's intake of fiber. If tummy issues continue, peppermint oil is an excellent supplement. Also, for those who do suffer from this illness, and since they are more at risk of poor nutrition, they should take proper action to avoid this from happening. For instance, on good days, they should cook several meals to store in the freezer so that they are available when one's under the weather.

Fried foods and those high in sodium should also be avoided, as they can trigger problems and symptoms. Monitoring the diet, as suggested above through food logs is vital to improving health and avoiding flareups. Exercise is so important to the body, and far too many people are leading sedentary lifestyles to the point where they are putting their health at risk. Start slow and increase accordingly. This will help strengthen muscles and joints and could be as easy as simply walking a few minutes a day.




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