Contribution from Jodie Henslee
We all know the five food groups. It was pounded into us as we went to school. Grains- Fruits-Veggies-Protein-Dairy.
In dealing with FM/CFS, what would a balanced diet consist of, because we all know that (here I go….) we are all different and what works for some will not work for others. An overall balanced diet could not hurt, right?
Let’s talk about protein. Our bodies need protein for growth and maintenance. It is directly responsible for about 20% of our cells and tissues. Protein also functions as hormones, antibodies and enzymes that keep us going and we know that we need to “keep going”. Some “experts” say that some of the tissue abnormalities that we have with FM can get worse by not getting enough protein.
There are also foods that can make our FM/CFS symptoms worse. Not for all, but for some. The trick is to eliminate things from your diet and then adding them back in. The most common trigger foods would be: Fried foods/High Saturated Fat, Refined Sugar, Aspartame (this is a migraine trigger for me). MSG (also a migraine trigger for me). Other triggers could be Caffeine, Alcohol, Nicotine, and even drugs/meds.
Most of us are taking meds that increase our Serotonin Levels Serotonin is involved in our pain perception, sleep regulation and feelings of general well being. Foods that raise serotonin levels would be carbohydrates rich foods, complex carbohydrates , grains/beans, starchy foods. Even dark chocolate in small amounts.
Talk to your doc to see what would work for you. We all have different needs. The “cure all diets” we see on the web are not for everyone, but may very well help. Before spending money on these, check with your doc because some could cause issues with meds. DO YOUR RESEARCH!
For me, rather than starving myself during the day and then eating dinner, eating something in each of the food groups, in moderate proportion might just be what I need.
I hope these dieting tips help you cope with fibromyalgia.
Jodie Henslee