Can the right diet help with fibromyalgia?

Quick Overview: Nutrition for Fibromyalgia

• Basics of nutrition: A balanced diet can relieve symptoms such as pain and fatigue.
• Recommended foods: Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins are among the recommended foods.
• Foods with negative effects: Certain food groups such as FODMAPs, gluten, and excitotoxins can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.
• Monitor and adjust nutrition: Individual adjustment of the diet and monitoring with a food diary can be useful.
• Nutritional recommendations for children, adults and the elderly: When adapting dietary recommendations, the special nutritional needs of different age groups should be taken into account.

basic principles

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and other accompanying symptoms. Although the causes of this condition are complex and not yet fully understood, research has shown that nutrition can have a significant impact on the well-being and symptoms of those affected. The basis of a modified diet for fibromyalgia is a balanced intake of macro- and micronutrients.

It is important that the diet is varied and nutritious, while avoiding potential trigger foods that can aggravate symptoms. In addition, care should be taken to ensure adequate fluid intake, as adequate fluid intake contributes to general health and may have a positive effect on inflammatory processes.

Recommended foods

• Fresh vegetables and fruits: They are rich in vital substances and antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.
• Whole-wheat products: They contain fiber, which promotes digestion and provides long-lasting energy.
• Healthy fats: Avocados and nuts provide unsaturated fats that may have anti-inflammatory effects.
• Low-fat dairy products: They provide calcium and protein without burdening the body with too many saturated fats.
• Lean protein: Chicken or fish are good sources of protein that are low in saturated fat and support muscle building.

Foods with negative effects

• FODMAPs: Foods such as wheat, onions, and dairy products can cause bloating and stomach pain in some people.
• Foods that contain gluten: Even without celiac disease, gluten can worsen symptoms in some people with fibromyalgia.
• Excitotoxins: Additives such as MSG and aspartame can increase fibromyalgia symptoms in some people.
• Sugar: May promote inflammatory processes and should therefore only be consumed in moderation.
• Saturated fats: They are found in animal products and can increase inflammation in the body.

Special nutritional tips for acute phases of illness

In the acute phases of fibromyalgia, when pain is particularly severe, adjusting your diet can help relieve symptoms. In order not to place an additional burden on the digestive tract, it is recommended to eat particularly light and easily digestible meals. Anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger, turmeric and omega-3-rich fish can have a supportive effect. In addition, attention should be paid to increased fluid intake to detoxify the body and optimize nutrient supply.

How important are control and adjustment?

Regularly monitoring your diet through a food diary can help identify individual trigger foods. In addition, regular blood tests can provide information about possible nutrient deficiencies, which can then be specifically compensated for by an adapted diet or supplementation. The diet must always be adapted to the current state of health to optimally support the body.

Nutritional advice for children, adults and seniors

Because fibromyalgia primarily affects adults, special dietary advice is particularly relevant for this age group. Older people may need more calcium and vitamin D to counteract the risk of osteoporosis. In children with fibromyalgia, special attention should be paid to ensuring that the diet is balanced and contains all the nutrients needed for growth and development.

Medical specialist

Luisa Schwab is a psychologist and medical student who is continuously expanding her expertise in the healthcare sector. She completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Regensburg in 2021 and gained valuable experience during her studies through a 6-week internship with a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Since April 2022, she has been studying human medicine at the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg. In addition to nursing internships in pediatrics and obstetrics, she worked for half a year as a student assistant in cardiology and angiology. Luisa is intensively involved in medicine, psychology, nutrition and sports and has extensive knowledge in these areas.

Important note: This is general information only and is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-therapy. If you suspect fibromylagia or if your symptoms worsen, see a doctor. This information cannot replace specialized medical advice.