Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissues of the body. The condition can also cause irritable bowel syndrome, headaches and sleep disturbances. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia avoiding certain types of food can help manage the symptoms of the condition. A physiotherapist or chiropractic doctor can help with manual recovery, while a dietitian or naturopath can help you be mindful of your diet and avoid certain foods that may aggravate your symptoms.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, salt, and preservatives that can trigger inflammation in the body. If you have fibromyalgia, it is important to avoid processed foods such as fast foods, microwave meals, packaged snacks, soda, and other sugary drinks. Instead, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
High-Fat Foods
Fatty foods are known to trigger inflammation in the body, leading to increased pain and discomfort in people with fibromyalgia. You should, therefore, avoid foods that are high in saturated and trans fats such as fried foods, fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and processed meats. Instead, choose lean proteins such as fish, skinless poultry, nuts, and legumes.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol are known to trigger symptoms of fibromyalgia such as insomnia, headaches, and fatigue. You should, therefore, limit your intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages. If you must have caffeine, opt for decaffeinated teas or coffee, and limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day.
Gluten and Dairy
Many people with fibromyalgia find that gluten and dairy products exacerbate their symptoms. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley, while dairy products contain lactose, which is a type of sugar. To determine whether these foods are causing your symptoms, you may want to eliminate them from your diet for a few weeks and see if your symptoms improve.
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose are commonly found in diet sodas and other low-calorie products. However, these sweeteners have been linked to headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms in people with fibromyalgia. You should, therefore, avoid foods and drinks that contain artificial sweeteners, and opt for natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, and stevia instead.
Diet plays a crucial role in managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. By avoiding certain foods that trigger inflammation and other symptoms, you can reduce your pain and discomfort and improve your overall well-being. This guide outlines some of the foods to avoid with fibromyalgia, but it is important to listen to your body and avoid any foods that worsen your symptoms. Consult with your registered dietitian or naturopathic doctor if you have questions about your diet and how it may affect your fibromyalgia symptoms.
If you have any questions or would like to explore naturopathic medicine further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Michael Torreiter, ND, CFMP, or another Waterloo Naturopathic Doctor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
