Supplement, Herbs That Help Manage Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Today my friends, we are going to continue discussing Fibromyalgia. I am going to give you some natural herbal remedies and vitamins and minerals supplements that have proven to help with the many health issues that this disorder inflicts on your body and in your life.
About 80% of fibromyalgia patients have sleep disturbances and fatigue which one of any issues associated with Fibromyalgia so many of these supplements are addresses those issues.
1. Magnesium:
This essential mineralis key to producing and maintaining your bodies energy and low levels of magnesium can affect your sleep. According to study Japanese study in 2004 –Ironically chronic sleep problems can further reduce the magnesium levels in the cells of your body. Magnesium has been known to help nerve and muscle pain.
2. Melatonin:
This is a natural hormone that’s available as an over-the-counter supplement. It is sometimes used to induce drowsiness and improve sleep patterns. Some preliminary findings show that melatonin may be effective in treating fibromyalgia pain. But you need to remember Melatonin will only help if your body has low levels of this, which is common with this disorder.
3. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan):
This is a building block of serotonin. Serotonin is a powerful brain chemical, and serotonin levels play a significant role in fibromyalgia pain. Serotonin levels are also associated with depression and sleep. 5-HTP may help to increase deep sleep and reduce pain. In one study published in the Alternative Medicine Review, researchers reported that supplementation with 5-HTP may improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and fibromyalgia pains. There is preliminary evidence that it may reduce the number of tender points in people with fibromyalgia.
5. St. Johns Wort to treat depression associated with fibromyalgia:
There are several studies that show St. John’s wort is more effective than placebo and as effective as older antidepressants called tricyclics in the short-term treatment of mild or moderate depression. Other studies show St. John’s wort is as effective as selective SSRI antidepressants such as Prozac or Zoloft in treating depression. St John’s wort is usually well tolerated.
6. SAM-e:
Although it is not completely understood how SAM-e works some feel this natural supplement increases levels of serotonin and dopamine, two brain neurotransmitters. Some researchers believe that SAM-e may alter mood and increase restful sleep. It also plays a role in the formation of cartilage and our genetic material (DNA).
7. L-carnitine:
It is thought that L-carnitine may give some pain relief and treat other symptoms in people with fibromyalgia. In one study, researchers evaluated the effectiveness of L-carnitine in 102 patients with fibromyalgia. Results showed significantly greater symptom improvements in the group that took L-carnitine than in the group that took a placebo. L-carnitine may give pain relief and improve the general and mental health of patients with fibromyalgia.
8. Probiotics:
Probiotics contain potentially beneficial bacteria or yeasts and may aid with the breakdown and proper absorption of food and help improve digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, preventing infections of urinary and female genital tract.
9. Vitamin B:
According to Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum author of “From Fatigued to Fantastic” Vitamin B helps to boost energy levels and B vitamins help to build energy molecules. Fibromygalgia robs you of energy especially after a flare up. Teitelbaum advises to takeB supplementseparately instead of one B-complex-his recommends 25-50 mg of B1,B2,B3,B5,B6, and 500 micrograms (mcg) of B12. You can also increase you B vitamins intake by eating fish, poultry, meats, eggs, dairy products, whole grains, leafy green vegetable, beans, and peas.
10. Vitamin D:
A study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings examined 150 people with persistent, non-specific musculoskeletal pain in Minnesota. The researchers found that 93% of them had deficient levels of vitamin D. A blood test can conform if you have a Vitamin D deficiency.
11. D-Ribose:
This a supplement of sugar which the body produces naturally and many body builder’s use it to fuel muscle cells, thereby boosting energy. According to a 2008 study published in the” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” conducted by Dr. Teitelbaum; Fibromyalgia patients who took 5g 3 times daily increased their energy levels by 61%.
12. Omega-3 fatty Acids:
These essential fatty acids (DHA, EPA) help reduce inflammation, which decreases flare-ups, helps with pain, and fatigue according to Dr. Teitelbaum. You can increase your oily fish such as tuna, salmon, and sardines at least 3-4 times a week. If you are concerned with mercury in fish or would rather take fish oil supplement Dr. Teitelbaum recommends at least 600mg of EPA and DHA per capsule daily.
Other natural supplements and herbs that have been reported to help manage fibromyalgia symptoms:
Vitamin-C and grape seed extracts that are powerful anti-oxidants and protect cells from damage. Evening Primrose oil eases rheumatoid pain. Also included echinacea, black cohosh, cayenne, lavender, and milk thistle. There is currently no definitive studies on the efficacy of these natural therapies.
My hope is that some of the supplements or suggestions I have provided will be of some help to you, one of your family members, or a friend that has the misfortune of dealing with this disorder “Fibromyalgia”
Please remember you are not alone!
I personally understand how debilitating this disorder is and it affect every aspect of your life and your families. You are not alone, reach out to those that can help you, whether it is your minister, a friend, or a support group; it can make a big different just by someone listening and understanding what you are going through. It is always recommended that you check with your health-care provider before trying any supplements or herbal remedies especially if you are already on medication.
Other related Articles –4 Facts & Fiction about Fibromyalgia
10 Alternative Remedies & Natural Remedies for Fibromyalgia
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Quote of Day: Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Walk beside me and be my friend! – Albert Camus
