The Fibromyalgia Diet

Control What You Eat to Help With Common Symptoms

May 8, 2008

Fibromyalgia diet - fruit is good!, Morguefile.com - coopah

The foods you eat (and avoid) can help control some of the symptoms caused by fibromyalgia. Here are some foods found to help people with this condition.

When you suffer from fibromyalgia, you have a wide array of symptoms. These symptoms often include joint stiffness, muscle pain, back pain, problems sleeping, stiffness, and even headaches. You may also experience memory loss or problems thinking. While there is no cure for this condition, there are things you can do besides taking medication to help lessen the severity of the symptoms. Exercise and diet often helps.

A Diet for Healthy Living

It is no surprise that diet can help with symptoms. When you think about it, diet can help you feel healthy and better no matter what kind of condition you have. If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, then your doctor may recommend a low fat, high protein diet. This can help you feel better and can help lessen the muscle and joint pain that you may have. Here is a closer look at a good diet for your medical condition.

Eat a Varied Diet

One of the most important things that you can do for your body, especially when you suffer from fibromyalgia, is that you need a varied diet. When you eat a lot of different foods from all of the food groups, you get a wide range of vitamins and minerals. This helps your body heal and function better. Add balanced foods including complex carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and plenty of lean protein.

Avoid Additives and Preservatives

When you eat additives and preservatives, you are adding "stuff" into your body that you don’t really need. This can contribute to swelling and joint pain. Instead, focus on fresh fruits and vegetables and organic foods, which normally contain little or no additives or preservatives.

Avoid Sugar and Caffeine

There are many reasons why you need to avoid sugar and caffeine, but when you suffer from fibromyalgia, caffeine can interact with medications and contribute to headaches and swelling of the joints. Plus, when you eat less sugar, you are doing your body a favor.

Drink Plenty of Water

It is important for you to drink plenty of water when you suffer from this medical problem. The main reason why water is so important is because it can help reduce swelling and will hydrate your body. Flushing out your system will help you feel better, too.

Keep your diet simple. Avoid fatty food, fast food, and foods that are full of grease and sugar. Focus on lean meats, grilled chicken breasts, fish, and lean beef. Salads with low fat dressings are the best as well as whole wheat pastas and breads.

Take a hard look at your diet and work with your doctor to find out what works best for you. When you find a good diet to follow you will go a long way in feeling better with your condition.