Fibromyalgia is painful and hard for many to deal with, but diet plays a key role in the treatment and management of the condition. There are certain proper foods to eat for fibromyalgia as well as particular foods to avoid in your diet.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a frequently misdiagnosed and misunderstood condition. It is one of the most common forms of arthritis, which displays a myriad of symptoms from chronic and widespread muscle and joint pain, to fatigue and even depression. It is common for people affected by this condition to feel as though their muscles are weak, tired, and overworked, even though they have done nothing to provoke it through exercise. It is also common for people to feel this way first thing when they get out of bed in the morning, which is part of the reason why it is so hard to function with this condition. Since there is still a lot to be discovered about this condition, there is little information about medical treatments. Turning to your diet is perhaps the best way to combat the symptoms of the condition.
Proper Foods to Eat for Fibromyalgia
The best foods to eat for fibromyalgia are organic, because they do not contain any additives or preservatives. You will want to eat a varied diet, so you are getting a wide selection of vitamins and minerals. This will help the body to heal, allowing you to function better. Eat a diet focused on balance, with lean meats for protein, complex carbohydrates for energy, and essential fatty acids for cell renewal and development. Drinking plenty of water will help you stay hydrated and keep you away from sugar and caffeine. Drinking water will also help reduce the swelling that causes so much pain with this condition.
There is no “magic” food to eat for fibromyalgia. The key is making sure you have plenty of healthy fruits and vegetables and whole grains in your diet, making sure not to alienate any particular food group. Consider eating chicken breast, lean cuts of beef, green leafy vegetables, and fresh fruits. Whether you have weight to lose or not, following a simple balanced diet the same way someone who has a few pounds to lose would, is a great way to ensure you’re getting enough of what you body needs to help heal itself.
Foods to Avoid for Fibromyalgia
Those with fibromyalgia should avoid foods that contain high amounts of sugar. It is also a good idea to avoid caffeine. By eating less sugar, you are really helping your body, and you may even be able to shed a few pounds as a result. The caffeine in coffee, sodas, dietary supplements and energy drinks may interact with medications and contribute to joint pain and swelling. Avoid eating foods that contain preservatives and other additives because this is adding additional “junk” into your body that you don’t really need. These “extras” may also contribute to joint swelling and pain. When you avoid foods that contain a lot of these ingredients, your diet becomes healthier, allowing your body to heal better and faster.
There are plenty of foods to avoid when it comes to fibromyalgia. The key is staying away from junk food and fast food as these are overly fatty and stuffed with a variety of additives and preservatives.
