Fibromyalgia, like other chronic and inflammatory conditions, responds well to both food and supplement support. I have found an alkaline and anti-inflammatory diet to be most helpful, and an acidic diet to make the condition much worse. IBS and leaky gut are very common among people with this problem. It’s best to improve these issues first to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms like bloating and pain, as well as ensure better absorption of the helpful nutrients, especially magnesium. Most of my patients have been deficient in this mineral, which is responsible for muscle relaxation and energy production. All my fibromyalgia patients have responded well to the following nutritional recommendations:
Include
- Dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli as they contain magnesium.
- Cold water, oily fish such as wild salmon, trout, mackerel, and herrings rich in omega 3 oils and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Pumpkin seeds and oysters as they are full of zinc, the mineral useful for repairing the leaky gut associated with IBS.
- Asparagus, chicory and home-made sauerkraut to boost your good gut bacteria.
- Ginger and turmeric because of their inflammation soothing properties.
- Berries and pomegranate for their antioxidant benefits.
- Pineapple because it contains bromelain (in the core) which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Gentle herbal teas such as chamomile and peppermint.
Avoid
- Gluten and dairy foods as they aggravate the pain, inflammation and gut symptoms (have millet, quinoa, and amaranth instead and coconut milk and yogurt)
- Caffeine stimulants such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate, as well as alcohol because they can exacerbate the pain, sleep, and problems with reduced energy levels.
- Sugary and yeast-based foods as they trigger inflammation and worsen the IBS and leaky gut syndrome.
- Excessive protein and red meat products because they can intensify inflammation.
Supplements
- A gut complex with probiotics, L-glutamine and zinc to help repair the leaky gut, soothe the IBS and improve absorption of nutrients.
- Magnesium as a powder for oral use. Alternatively try external magnesium oil spray to soothe sore muscles or Epsom salt baths to help relax the body and mind, detox and improve sleep.
- An anti-inflammatory complex with curcumin, ginger, boswella and omega-3 oils to reduce overall inflammation.
- 5-HTP to help clear blurred thinking, low moods and improve sleep.
By Akcelina Cvijetic
