Diets That Help Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition being researched by medical science. Symptoms are uniform in patients. Chronic pain, sleep disorders and fatigue are the most common. Treatment of fibromyalgia is as diverse as those who suffer from the disease.

Stress

• Stress affects appetite, food cravings and the digestive system. Stress also triggers fibromyalgia symptoms. This makes formulating a steady diet hard for fibromyalgia patients.

Diets Low in Caffeine

• Doctors recommend patients suffering from sleep disorders avoid foods with caffeine because of adverse affects on sleep patterns.

Low-Fat Diets

• Many fibromyalgia patients report that a low-fat diet results in more energy and less muscle pain. Starting a healthier diet increases cravings for fatty foods or sugar. This is normal and will pass.

Aspartame-Free Diets

• Fibromyalgia patients should cut back on sugar and avoid using aspartame, a sugar substitute containing aspartic acid, which triggers pain receptors in the spinal cord. Any pain will be more intense.

Avoid "Reaction" Foods

• Foods that adversely affect the body (indigestion, bloating) should be avoided. Some common foods to avoid are dairy products and wheat.

Low-Carb, Sensible Diet

• Many fibromyalgia patients find a low-carb diet works best. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, drink six to eight glasses of water daily, consume lean meats to keep the body healthy and eliminate substances that trigger fibromyalgia symptoms.