Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease that affects millions of people all around the world. It causes pain and swelling at several points in the body. Since the real cause of fibromyalgia is not known yet, people find it frustrating to go through the trial and error methods purported for its treatment. Although there is no particular best diet for fibromyalgia, a few changes in food choices could alleviate the pain.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia
The common symptoms of fibromyalgia are as follows:

• Tingling sensation or numbness in arms, feet, hands, and legs
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Problems in sleeping
• Painful cramps during menstruation
• Painful or frequent urination
• Irritable bowel movements

People suffering from fibromyalgia may be sensitive to some food ingredients. They need to be very careful when making their food choices. Also, they should consult with their doctor before changing the diet drastically. Here is a list of foods items that make the best diet for fibromyalgia as well as some items that must be avoided.

Best diet for fibromyalgia

Vitamin D
Most people often forget this important vitamin, and it results in a deficiency. This can cause pain in the muscles and bones. A patient should be screened for vitamin deficiency as it may show symptoms of fibromyalgia. Increasing the levels of vitamin D may help the patient.

Supplements can be taken on doctor’s prescription. People having vitamin D deficiency require doubling the dose of painkillers compared to those who have sufficient amount of it.

Fatty food
Certain food items rich in omega-3 fatty acids are included in the best diet for fibromyalgia. It is advisable to include salmon, flaxseed, walnuts, etc. in your diet as these are a good source of fatty acids. They are known to prevent cardiovascular diseases and reduce inflammation.

A study revealed that people after having fatty acid supplements for three months showed lowered morning stiffness. However, this study did not include fibromyalgia patients, but the researchers are hopeful of the results.

Avoid caffeine
Some people just can’t get enough of their coffee while others use it to compensate for their sleeplessness. This, may, however, be harmful. Too much intake of caffeine may disrupt your sleep cycle. Opt for a healthier alternative such as decaffeinated green tea.

Cut down additives
Certain food additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) and aspartame can increase pain. They act as excitotoxin molecules that activate the neurons. Cutting down on or eliminating these additives out of your diet will reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Eat vegetables
Your grandma was right. Eating vegetables can be good for your system and overall health. A deficiency of nutrients in the body may cause oxidative stress. This happens when the body cannot fight well. Damaging free radicals in the body due to the insufficient production of antioxidants.

Most vegetables are loaded with important nutrients, such as vitamins A and C. It is utilized by the body to fight free radicals and keep it normal.

Sugar
It is a well-known fact that sugar provides the body with instant energy. This can be very appealing to people suffering from fibromyalgia as they are always low on energy. However, this can backfire as too much of sugar can make them more sensitive to pain.

Obese patients who suffer from fibromyalgia may have severe symptoms of stiffness and pain. Such patients can curb their sweet cravings by having natural sugars in the form of fruits.

Dairy
Most people are lactose intolerant. This may include fibromyalgia patients as well. In this condition, a person may experience bloating or gas after drinking milk or eating dairy products. In such cases, try and avoid using dairy products in your diet for a few weeks and see if it makes any difference to your symptoms.

In case you feel better, you can opt for other calcium-rich foods such as salmon, soy-milk, tuna, and broccoli. It is the best diet for fibromyalgia.

Gluten
Gluten intolerance or celiac disease is a condition in which a person is found to be intolerant to barley, wheat and rye products. This condition may also overlap with the fibromyalgia symptoms in some people.

Also, you do not need to eliminate gluten totally from your diet unless recommended by your doctor. In case you are advised to be totally off gluten foods, then bread, pasta, grains, marinades, and candy should also be avoided. You can try corn or rice as alternatives.

As a word of caution, choosing a particular food or eliminating it should be done carefully and under supervision. Include or remove a particular food one at a time and keep a record of how it is making a difference to your symptoms. You can also consider consulting a nutritionist. They will provide you with the best diet for fibromyalgia to ensure your symptoms do not flare up.