Learn How Proper Nutrition Reduces Fibromyalgia And Lupus Symptons

More energy, better sleep and easy to do

Written by SIMONE RAVICZ, Ph.D., M.B.A.

Nutrition is central to Fibromyalgia and Lupus whether one considers it as a cause of the worsening of the situation or as a potential source of benefit. Many people with Fibromyalgia and Lupus have sensitivities to certain foods but it generally takes some time and effort to detect the offending substances. In addition, there are steps to take to maximize the chances of improving your condition through nutrition.

If you believe you may have sensitivities to various foodstuffs, you should start with eliminating one product at a time for several weeks. For example, many people both with and without autoimmune conditions have difficulties when it comes to consuming gluten. Gluten is a protein composite in food processes from wheat, barley, oats, and rye. Gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance indicates conditions in which gluten causes symptoms similar to coeliac disease or wheat allergy. These two conditions must be ruled out before gluten sensitivity can be considered. If you believe you have gluten sensitivity, completely remove it from your diet for several weeks and notice what happens to your symptoms.

Other elements often considered as being linked with sensitivity to Fibromyalgia and Lupus include dairy, MSG, soy, eggs, and certain preservatives. Make certain to remove these substances from your diet individually and then note any changes in symptomatology, such as in headaches or migraines, fatigue, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and bone and joint pain.

A tool to use as an adjunct is a food diary. Use the food diary to note everything you are consuming and the resulting graded (0-10) symptom profile. Often with the removal of certain food elements and the clear depiction provided by the food diary, you will notice pain relief and an even greater decrease in fatigue and IBS-type symptomatology, such as diarrhea, constipation and bloating.

Always make sure you are carrying these explorations out with the involvement of your physician, dietitian or nutritionist.

Ensure you are routinely eating a nutritious diet. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit, whole grains and lean proteins. If you are diabetic, you must keep your physician apprised of your diet and your blood sugar levels. Also, make sure you keep hydrated daily. The oft-stated suggestion of eight glasses per day is now being reconsidered. Because of the tremendous variance in individual conditions, exercise conducted, and environmental temperature and humidity, many professionals are now stating that the amount of water is best determined by the thirst of the individual. However, if you are one who is not fond of drinking water, the eight glass rule may be more conducive to maintaining sufficient hydration.

To keep problems with flagging energy at bay, make sure to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. Have snacks with a small bit of protein to keep you energized. Eat breakfast, some whole grains, and proteins daily. I have found that eating oatmeal with some protein in the morning is quite sustaining.

Make sure to take multi-vitamin supplements daily to boost the immune system and maintain overall health. Try to locate capsules or liquid supplements given that those of us with Fibromyalgia and Lupus often have difficulty with digestion and absorption. Do not take more than 3,500 IU vitamin A or more than 30 IU vitamin E daily and do take 100% of daily amounts of other vitamins. It is important to take sufficient calcium, vitamin D, and even add Strontium if you have weak bones. Low levels of vitamin D have also been linked with depression and vitamin D impacts neuromuscular functioning and inflammation. Also be careful to take Omega 3s to obtain their multiple benefits.

Pay attention to portions, the natural way. In general, eat carbohydrates in amounts that equate with the size of your fist. Fats you consume should measure about the size of your thumb. Finally, protein should be eaten in an amount equated to the palm of your hand. In addition, eating your carbohydrates together with your fats helps with sugar absorption and maintaining your preferred weight.

When those of us with autoimmune conditions like Fibromyalgia and Lupus so often feel we are at the mercy of frequent medical interventions and numerous prescription medications, it is notable that we can have some control and a positive impact on our physical and medical health and well-being through natural means.