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.
Pain is the greatest symptom patients experience. However, these aches and pains can vary greatly from one person to the other. There are a variety of sensations that are felt in different parts of the body, and they can also include stiffness. They can be spread apart, or they can be daily chronic pains felt for months at a time. Another symptom associated with this condition is fatigue, but many are known to have numerous digestive issues, headaches, and even suffer from depression.
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.
To date, classic medications to treat fibromyalgia include acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medication. Antidepressants are also prescribed to help promote sleep and improve the feelings of fatigue. Natural remedies include meditation and exercise, which have shown to work quite well among many patients.
With the numerous sufferers of fibromyalgia in North America, it's important to look at what could be the culprit, and in this case diet could be the main focus. For instance, many sufferers have very low levels of vitamin D, and there are links between vitamin D and the pain experienced by such patients. Vitamin D is vital for healthy muscles and bones, and low levels could easily cause pains in these areas. However, before increasing the dosage of vitamin D, please speak to a doctor.
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 fiber intake, which is generally quite low in the average North American diet. For anyone suffering from tummy conditions, peppermint oil supplements can really help. That said, those who do suffer from this condition are generally at risk of poor nutrition because they don't have the strength or will to cook healthy meals when they are not feeling well. Therefore, on the good days, they should be preparing numerous meals that can be stored in the freezer and available at any time.
Also, try to avoid foods that are high in sodium. Other foods to avoid are fried foods. As everyone experiences different symptoms, it's important to monitor them as closely as possible. The food log suggested above is highly recommended, as some foods may trigger symptoms and flareups. By all means, when up to it, add physical fitness to the recipe. Never overdo it, but get active, even if that means five minutes a day. Physical activity can keep joints and muscles healthier and stronger. Walking is a good moderate form of exercise that can reduce symptoms.
Pain is the greatest symptom patients experience. However, these aches and pains can vary greatly from one person to the other. There are a variety of sensations that are felt in different parts of the body, and they can also include stiffness. They can be spread apart, or they can be daily chronic pains felt for months at a time. Another symptom associated with this condition is fatigue, but many are known to have numerous digestive issues, headaches, and even suffer from depression.
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.
To date, classic medications to treat fibromyalgia include acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medication. Antidepressants are also prescribed to help promote sleep and improve the feelings of fatigue. Natural remedies include meditation and exercise, which have shown to work quite well among many patients.
With the numerous sufferers of fibromyalgia in North America, it's important to look at what could be the culprit, and in this case diet could be the main focus. For instance, many sufferers have very low levels of vitamin D, and there are links between vitamin D and the pain experienced by such patients. Vitamin D is vital for healthy muscles and bones, and low levels could easily cause pains in these areas. However, before increasing the dosage of vitamin D, please speak to a doctor.
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 fiber intake, which is generally quite low in the average North American diet. For anyone suffering from tummy conditions, peppermint oil supplements can really help. That said, those who do suffer from this condition are generally at risk of poor nutrition because they don't have the strength or will to cook healthy meals when they are not feeling well. Therefore, on the good days, they should be preparing numerous meals that can be stored in the freezer and available at any time.
Also, try to avoid foods that are high in sodium. Other foods to avoid are fried foods. As everyone experiences different symptoms, it's important to monitor them as closely as possible. The food log suggested above is highly recommended, as some foods may trigger symptoms and flareups. By all means, when up to it, add physical fitness to the recipe. Never overdo it, but get active, even if that means five minutes a day. Physical activity can keep joints and muscles healthier and stronger. Walking is a good moderate form of exercise that can reduce symptoms.
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