Diet Commandments for Pain Patients

as posted by: Dr. Mercola

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition whose symptoms include muscle and tissue pain, fatigue, depression, and sleep disturbances. Recent data suggests that central sensitization, in which neurons in the spinal cord become sensitized by inflammation or cell damage, may be involved in the way fibromyalgia patients process pain. Certain chemicals in the foods patients eat may trigger the release of neurotransmitters that heighten this sensitivity.

Although there have only been a handful of studies on diet and fibromyalgia, the following eating rules can’t hurt, and may help, people dealing with chronic pain.

Eat fresh foods. Eating a diet of fresh foods, devoid of preservatives and additives, may ease symptoms triggered by coexisting conditions such as IBS. It’s also a good idea to buy organic food when possible, as some patients do better avoiding pesticides and chemicals.

Avoid caffeine. Fibromyalgia is believed to be linked to an imbalance of brain chemicals that control mood, and it is often linked with unrestful sleep and fatigue. Some try to ease fatigue with stimulants like caffeine, but they may end up doing more harm than good in the long run. Though caffeine provides an initial boost of energy, it is no substitute for sleep, and can keep you awake.

Avoid nightshade vegetables. Nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplant are suspected to trigger arthritis and pain conditions in some people.

Consume omega-3’s liberally. Omega-3 fats have been touted as a heart-healthy food, but they may help with pain, as well. They reduce the inflammation and help brain function.

Use yeast sparingly. Consuming yeast may also contribute to the growth of yeast fungus, which can contribute to pain.

Avoid dairy. Many fibromyalgia patients have trouble digesting milk and dairy products.

Cut down on carbs. About 90 percent of fibromyalgia patients have low adrenal functioning, which affects the metabolism of carbohydrates and may lead to hypoglycemia.

Avoid aspartame. The artificial sweetener found in diet sodas and many sugar-free sweets is part of a chemical group called excitotoxins, which activate neurons that can increase sensitivity to pain.

Avoid additives. Food additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) often cause trouble for pain patients. MSG is a an excitatory neurotransmitter that may stimulate pain receptors; glutamate levels in spinal fluid have been shown to correlate with pain levels in fibromyalgia patients.

Stay away from junk food. Limit or eliminate fast food, candy, and vending-machine products. In addition to contributing to weight gain and the development of unhealthy eating habits, these diet-wreckers may also irritate muscles, disrupt sleep, and compromise your immune system.