Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia Syndrome is a recently recognised disorder that is regarded as a common cause of chronic musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. It is a chronic, painful disorder of the body’s muscles and connective tissue. Fibromyalgia is characterised by generalised aches or stiffness of at least three anatomical sites for at least 3 months, and six more typical, reproducible tender points. The primary treatment goals in fibromyalgia are to raise serotonin levels, improve sleep quality and ensure adequate magnesium levels.

Although most people who suffer from it are women, typically aged 25-45 years, it has also been diagnosed in children and the elderly. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. The ongoing cycle of pain leads to inactivity, fatigue, chronic headache, sleep disturbance, depression, numbing or tingling sensations in the extremities, irritable bowel syndrome and variation of symptoms in relation to activity, stress and weather changes. Experts usually diagnose fibromyalgia ‘by exclusion’ (i.e. they determine what it isn’t as they test for other diseases).

Exercise and antidepressants have been the two most prescribed remedies in conventional medical circles. In addition to supplementation, 20 minutes per day of low impact aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming is recommended, as are stress reduction activities such as meditation.

Dietary Recommendations: Restrict or eliminate intake of refined sugars and increase dietary sources of magnesium (legumes, tofu, seeds, nuts, whole grains and green leafy vegetables).