Natural Treatment for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a mysterious condition because no one knows what causes it and there is no known cure. The condition is most common in middle aged women. The treatment at this time is to manage pain.

Fibromyalgia is a condition with general symptoms, such as feeling tired, muscle pain, tender points, morning stiffness, headaches and problems thinking clearly. As a condition that causes chronic pain, there may be associated depression, anger and anxiety associated with Fibromyalgia.

According the National Institute of Health, Fibromyalgia can be managed with medication, exercise and adequate sleep, which builds up the immune system for a healthy body.

The National Fibromyalgia Association states on their website that too little is known from the scientific community on nutrition and diet for people who suffer from fibromyalgia. .Even though too little is known to make many specific recommendations, they do note that eating a good balanced diet helps everyone's body function at its best.

A healthy nutrition plan, which includes foods that are low in fat and high in antioxidants and phytochemicals, can help boost the immune system. A balanced nutrition plan, focused on high quality foods can help to strengthen the immune system and make the body function better.

Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of phytochemicals and antioxidants. Choose produce with rich, dark colors for the biggest boost in these immune boosting nutrients. Look for dark green broccoli, ripe berries or carrots. Fruits and vegetables are best and most economical when they are fresh and in season, although there can be excellent choices in the freezer case.

Mary Moeller, the author of The Fibromyalgia Cookbook, recommends eliminating chocolate, carbonated beverages, coffee and alcohol from the diet.

Exercise can contribute to a general feeling of well being and help with pain management. It can be difficult to get motivated to exercise when suffering from pain, so gentle exercise is the best way to start. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends starting with stretching and choosing low impact, gentle exercise. Some recommended activities include walking, swimming and riding a bicycle.

Start to exercise slowly and gently to avoid injury, especially if you have been avoiding exercise due to pain. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests starting with a five minute daily walk and adding a minute every day, working up to 60 minutes a day. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise if you have a pool available. If there is a health club with a swimming pool in your vicinity, an investment in a membership may be well worth the price for health and well being.

At this point there is no cure for Fibromyalgia, so the focus is on pain management and boosting the general health and immune system. Proper nutrition and exercise may help to improve the overall condition for an improved quality of life.

Information is this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about a medical condition, please consult a physician.

Resources:
National Institute of Health
American Academy of Family Physicians
National Fibromyalgia Association

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