Re: 10 Foods and Habits to Fight Fibromyalgia

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10 Foods and Habits to Fight FibromyalgiaPosted by natural health guru Dr. Mercola

Fibromyalgia or fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a very common form of chronicpain and is one of the most pervasive diseases, affecting almost 10 millionAmericans or 5 percent of the population.The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, making it difficult to treat.Fibromyalgia symptoms include depression, fatigue, muscle and tissue pain, andsleep disturbances. Medication for this condition, like Lyrica, usually reducessymptoms by only about 30 to 50 percent.Many fibromyalgia patients reported that some foods tend to aggravate theirsymptoms. According to the National Fibromyalgia Research Association, certainfoods have the potential to irritate your muscles and cause problems to yourimmune system. And so it can be tough for those suffering from this disease tochoose and follow nutritional advice on how they should eat.No single eating plan will work for all fibromyalgia sufferers, Dr. phMercola points out. However, Dr. Mercola believes that making simple dietary andlifestyle changes can help relieve fibromyalgia symptoms:1. Avoid processed foods to stay away from additives and preservatives.2. Avoid artificial sweeteners. Aspartame has been found to triggerfibromyalgia-type symptoms and make it worse, for those already suffering fromthe disease. Artificial sweeteners could be responsible for some or even all ofyour symptoms.3. Avoid sugar and caffeine, including soda, fruit juice and energy drinks.Drink pure, fluoride-free water instead.4. Consume coconuts and coconut oil. Coconut has been found to be beneficialto people suffering from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome andhypothyroidism.5. Eat fresh, organic, whole fruits and vegetables that are as close to theirnatural state as possible. Whole fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants,which help anti-inflammatory benefits. Go for those deep oranges, reds, purplesand greens because generally, the more colorful the produce, the better. Eat asmany raw foods as possible. Cooking food in temperatures above 118 degrees Fdestroys enzymes and nutrients, which is why Mercola personally tries to eat atleast 80 percent of his food raw.6. Eliminate or strictly limit your alcohol intake.7. Exercise. Regular exercise is one of the most effective fibromyalgiatreatment methods.8. Get more sleep. Having a regular sleeping habit can help greatly boostyour energy, improve your mood and reduce pain.9. Optimize your omega-3 fat levels. Long-chain animal-based omega-3 fatsfrom fish oil or krill oil are natural pain relievers and helps decreaseinflammation, joint pain, swelling and stiffness.10. Relax. Try meditation, yoga or a stress management tool like theEmotional Freedom Technique.