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Alternative Medicine and Fibromyalgia, Part 4Fibromyalgia patients absolutely must get adequate amounts of protein in their diet. Not only is protein necessary to regenerate muscle tissue that breaks down during normal activity, but it also helps to create ATP, the energy that fuels all muscle (and all cellular) activity. Other supplements that help nourish cells and increase ATP production include NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-hydrogen), which may also help control painful muscle spasms. Malic acid and magnesium (people with FMS often have low magnesium levels) can also increase cellular energy by helping muscles to use glucose more efficiently. Low ATP levels lead to exhaustion, and chronic fatigue, and decreased mental function, common symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome. Fibromyalgia patients often report experiencing a sort of brain fog called “fibrofog”, which may occur during an intense flare. People suffering from fibrofog report a loss of short-term and long-term memory, and may find themselves unable to complete the simplest of tasks, such as write out checks or even find their way around their own home. FMS patients suffering from bouts of fibrofog may also benefit from supplementation with lecithin, a lipid that contains choline and inositol, which studies indicate can significantly improve brain and lessen the incidence of memory lapses.FMS sufferers typically suffer from pain or weakness in their muscles, and getting enough protein in their diet is crucial to managing FMS symptoms. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and amino acid supplements may help FMS patients increase their physical energy levels and improve mental function. L-threonine, an essential amino acid, has been shown in some studies to help alleviate restless legs syndrome, a condition involving involuntary muscle spasms that often precedes or accompanies fibromyalgia flares. Creatine, a compound that is made naturally in the body from amino acids, is highly concentrated in muscle tissue, and is used by some athletes to help their muscles recover more quickly after an intense workout, and there is some evidence that creatine may diminish muscular fatigue and pain in those with FMS as well. Coenzyme Q10, an enzyme that helps boost oxygen supplies to muscle tissue, is also available in supplemental form, and may help treat FMS muscle fatigue while helping to flush inflammatory chemicals more quickly. Another common symptom of fibromyalgia is an inability to get restful sleep. People with fibromyalgia often suffer from irregular sleep-wake cycles, which may be caused by both chronic pain and by a malfunctioning central nervous system. Typical FMS patients find themselves caught up in an endless cycle, in which their muscles ache so badly they cannot sleep, and yet because they cannot sleep their bodies are unable to repair cells and regenerate muscle tissue. Melatonin, a natural hormone that can help ease depression and promote normal sleep cycles, can increase production of the neurotransmitter serotonin, a brain chemical that helps dull pain, improve sleep, and promote a sense of well-being. Melatonin triggers sleep, and has been proven effective for helping people get back on regular sleep-wake cycles after a disruption, such as working the night shift or traveling in different time zones. It is also a potent antioxidant and may help treat a form of winter depression known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which seems to affect fibromyalgia patients at a higher rate than those unaffected by this disorder. However, it is important to keep in mind that melatonin may cause depression in some individuals, and should be discontinued if symptoms are discovered. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-tryptophan), a form of the amino acid L-tryptophan, has also been shown to increase levels of serotonin, and may be useful for treating some forms of depression. Some studies have shown that 5-HTP may have an action comparable to certain prescription antidepressants, so this supplement may help relieve stressful feelings that can cause a FMS flare as well. Kava and St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), herbs traditionally used to help induce sleep and ease anxiety and depression, may also help FMS patients reduce stress and get more rest, especially when used in combination with the herbs passionflower or valerian. However, if you are already taking antidepressants, you should consult your doctor before beginning a supplemental regimen. Alternative Medicine and Fibromyalgia, Part 5 Return to Alternative Medicine and Fibromyalgia, Part 1 Related site: Fibromyalgia fact page |
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