Fibromyalgia causes pain in the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fibrous tissue of the body.  The areas most affected by fibromyalgia are the neck, shoulders, lower back, chest and thighs.  It is difficult to diagnose and can have a similar presentation to chronic fatigue syndrome, hypothyroidism and inflammatory arthritis.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia begin with muscle stiffness, aching and spasms that are worse after activity.

It leads to an overall feeling of fatigue.  Other symptoms are bowel problems, depression, anxiety and poor sleep. Blood tests in fibromyalgia sufferers show abnormally shaped red blood cell clusters called rouleau formations.  Individuals affected by fibromyalgia usually lead a high stress lifestyle.  Other possible causes of fibromyalgia include viral infection, toxin accumulation and food allergies.

Conventional treatment of fibromyalgia involves antidepressant medication.  It is thought to help because the symptoms of pain and altered sleep are due to a disturbance of the central nervous system.

Dietary approaches to fibromyalgia have several components.  Most people’s diets cause their tissues to be acidic.  In order to buffer the acid essential minerals are stripped from the body.   The first step is to cleanse the body of accumulated acids and toxins. 

An alkaline diet will help to prevent worsening of symptoms and maintain a proper mineral balance (see Acid/Alkali balance section).  A digestive enzyme should be supplemented to ensure that food is broken down properly.

Avoid consuming coffee and black tea both of which deplete minerals.

Avoid consuming any food that you are sensitive to.  Do not eat from the nightshade family (green peppers, eggplant, potatoes and tomatoes).  They contain solanine that interferes with the muscle’s enzyme system, causing pain.

In addition to an alkaline diet the following foods should be increased: pineapple, ginger, turmeric, alfalfa, fibre, such as flax seeds, and ocean-going fish, for their essential fatty acids.

Stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises and moderate physical activity can decrease fibromyalgia symptoms.  Copper bracelets can be worn around the wrist to produce a whole body anti-inflammatory effect.  Topically, juniper or St. John’s wort oil can be rubbed into the painful area.  Hydrotherapy with warm compresses or baths can provide relief.

The following list of supplements can be used for fibromyalgia.  Many supplements must be taken for a period of several weeks or months before relief is seen.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).