Fibromyalgia Prevention Through Diet And Exercise

By Elaine Guthrie


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.

It's a complicated diagnosis which begins by ruling out other disorders and ailments. Very often, a specialist known as a rheumatologist will have to rule out any autoimmune disorders, anemia, thyroid problems, arthritis, and more. In general, the patient should experience 11 of 18 pain areas throughout the body to get this official diagnosis.

Generally, people are treated using acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medications. For those who experience extreme fatigue, antidepressants are prescribed which can help to promote sleep and therefore combat fatigue. Many natural remedies are also recommended, through exercise and meditation.

Very often, the diet of the North American people is the number one culprit. One particular problem is the low levels of vitamin D that is found in most patients. Obviously, those who live in northern areas where there is limited sunlight, will be at a greater risk. Vitamin D is important for muscles and bones, and low levels of this vital vitamin could be putting people at risk. However, it is important to speak to a doctor before upping the dosage.

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.

Fried foods and those high in sodium should also be avoided, as they can trigger problems and symptoms. Monitoring the diet, as suggested above through food logs is vital to improving health and avoiding flareups. Exercise is so important to the body, and far too many people are leading sedentary lifestyles to the point where they are putting their health at risk. Start slow and increase accordingly. This will help strengthen muscles and joints and could be as easy as simply walking a few minutes a day.




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