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Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a common disorder characterized by persistent, widespread pain all over the body, accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues.
It is thought that fibromyalgia affects the way your brain processes pain signals so that painful sensations are amplified.
Why do I have fibromyalgia?
One of the main theories is that repeated nerve stimulation causes changes in the brains of people with fibromyalgia. This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain (neurotransmitters). Also, the brain's pain receptors seem to develop a sort of memory of the pain and become more sensitive, which means that people with fibromyalgia may have a lower threshold to pain.
What are the symptoms of Fibromyalgia?
There isn’t a specific test for fibromyalgia – so it can be a difficult condition to diagnose.
The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are:
- Widespread sensitivity to pain
- Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- Sleep disturbance
- Memory and concentration problems (known as “fibro fog”)
- Headaches
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
The effects of these symptoms vary from person to person and from day to day. Many people have flare-ups from time to time when their symptoms become suddenly worse.
What causes fibromyalgia?
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a chemical imbalance in the brain and changes in the way the central nervous system process pain messages. Symptoms sometimes begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress (divorce, bereavement). In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event.
Women are seven times more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men. Many people with fibromyalgia also suffer from tension headaches, brain fog, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anxiety and depression.
While there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, a variety of nutritional and lifestyle changes can help control the symptoms. A healthy balance of exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures may also help.
How can Foodwise help?
If fibromyalgia is an issue for you, Foodwise can help.
Painkillers, anti-inflammatories and sedatives are not your only options.
We have all the nutritional information and dietary advice to help address fibromyalgia and manage its symptoms naturally.
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How does healthy nutrition help treat fibromyalgia naturally?
Fibromyalgia was once dismissed as a 'made-up' problem, but fortunately is now accepted as a real disorder. However, because doctors are still unsure of the its cause, treatment can be a frustrating process of trial and error.
Many people with fibromyalgia have found relief through alternative treatments, including nutritional therapy. Although there is no magic food that can prevent fibromyalgia, a few dietary improvements to restore nutrients, counteract stress and rid the body of toxins can make a world of difference and alleviate the worst of flare-ups.
Managing fibromyalgia effectively focuses on:
- following an anti-inflammatory diet
- avoiding environmental toxins
- identifying underlying hormonal disorders
- improving digestive health
- correcting nutritional deficiencie
as well as the appropriate use of natural supplements and home remedies.
Find out more about the Energy and Mood Program
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Energy & Mood
Sign up for the Foodwise Energy and Mood program and treat fibromyalgia and related symptoms.
We recommend the Foodwise Energy and Mood program for anyone suffering from fibromalgia and related energy issues.
By following nutritional and lifestyle advice tailored to address your current diet and condition you’ll learn how to manage fibromyalgia naturally through healthy nutrition.
Get started and see improved symptoms and immediate benefits to your health and wellbeing right away!
Fibromyalgia may be affecting 1 person in every 25. It affects more women than men, and symptoms vary from person to person.
Fibromyalgia is often misdiagnosed as degenerative joint disease.