Is Yoga Safe for Fibromyalgia?

Roughly 10 million Americans suffer from the chronic pain of fibromyalgia, and many are looking for relief through yoga. But is yoga safe for those with fibromyalgia?

The practice of yoga has been shown to be beneficial for many chronic conditions, including pain, anxiety, and depression. For people with fibromyalgia, yoga can help to ease pain, improve sleep, and increase energy levels and flexibility. 

However, it is important to consult with a doctor before beginning any new exercise program, and to start slowly and gently when practicing yoga. Those with fibromyalgia should avoid any yoga poses that put pressure on the neck or spine, and focus on gentle, slow movements.

Yoga has many benefits

Yoga is a form of exercise that has many benefits. It can help improve your flexibility, strength, and balance. It can also help you manage stress and pain. However, some people with certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, should avoid certain types of yoga.

Before starting any exercise program, it’s important to talk to your doctor. This is especially true if you have a chronic condition like fibromyalgia. Some types of yoga may be unsafe for people with fibromyalgia. For example, yoga that involves twisting or putting pressure on the spine may worsen pain.

If you have fibromyalgia and want to try yoga, it’s important to find a class that is specifically designed for people with chronic pain. Make sure to let your instructor know about your condition. They can then modify the poses and make sure you’re doing them safely.

Yoga can be a great way to manage fibromyalgia pain. It can help you relax, increase your range of motion, and improve your strength and flexibility. But it’s important to find a class and instructor that understand your condition and can modify the poses to make sure they’re safe for you.

Yoga can help relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia 

Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise that can offer many health benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, and balance. For people with fibromyalgia, yoga may also help to reduce pain, fatigue, and anxiety. However, it is important to discuss your fitness goals and any possible health concerns with your doctor before starting a yoga practice. 

People with fibromyalgia often experience widespread muscle pain and fatigue. Yoga can help to stretch and strengthen muscles, which may help to reduce pain. Yoga may also help to improve sleep quality and decrease fatigue. In addition, the deep breathing and relaxation techniques learned in yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety. 

While yoga is generally considered to be safe, there are some poses that may be too challenging or painful for people with fibromyalgia. It is important to listen to your body and only attempt poses that feel comfortable. If you feel pain, stop the pose and rest. 

Some people with fibromyalgia find that certain yoga poses help to relieve their symptoms, while others find that certain poses aggravate their symptoms. It is important to experiment with different poses to find what works best for you.

It is important to consult with a doctor and yoga instructor before beginning

Before beginning any yoga practice, it is important to consult with a doctor and yoga instructor. This is especially true if you have a chronic condition like fibromyalgia. While yoga can offer many benefits for people with fibromyalgia, there are also some poses and practices that could aggravate symptoms. Your doctor can discuss your specific medical needs and limitations. Your yoga instructor can help you develop a practice that is safe and beneficial for you. They can also offer modifications for poses that might be too difficult or triggering for your symptoms. Yoga can be a great way to help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia, but it's important to make sure that you are doing it safely and under the guidance of a professional.

A regular yoga practice may help to ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia and improve quality of life, although more research is needed. As with any form of exercise, it is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor before starting a yoga class.

Is Echinacea Good for your Fibromyalgia?

 

For those with fibromyalgia, the search for an effective treatment can be frustrating. While there is no cure for this chronic condition, some people find relief by taking echinacea. This herbal supplement is thought to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Echinacea is available in many forms, including capsules, tablets, liquids, and teas. It is generally safe to take echinacea, but it can cause some side effects, such as an upset stomach. People with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, should not take echinacea. If you are considering taking this supplement, talk to your doctor first to see if it is right for you.

What is echinacea?

Echinacea is a flowering plant in the daisy family. It is native to North America and grows in the eastern United States and Canada. The plant has purple, cone-shaped flowers and is used for its medicinal properties. Echinacea is taken orally as a supplement or tincture, and is also available in topical formulations. Echinacea is most commonly used to treat the common cold and flu, and is thought to boost the immune system. Some research suggests that echinacea may also be effective in treating other conditions, such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and upper respiratory infections. A few small studies have investigated whether echinacea can help relieve symptoms of fibromyalgia, but the results have been mixed. One study found that echinacea was no more effective than a placebo in reducing symptoms of fatigue, pain, and stiffness in people with fibromyalgia. However, another study found that echinacea may help reduce fatigue and improve quality of life in people with fibromyalgia. More research is needed to determine whether echinacea is an effective treatment for fibromyalgia.

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain and tenderness in the muscles and joints. It can also cause fatigue, sleep problems, and difficulty concentrating. Fibromyalgia is a very common condition, and it is thought to affect millions of people around the world. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but there are treatments that can help to relieve the symptoms.

Is fibromyalgia an autoimmune response?

Autoimmune diseases are illnesses that occur when the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system. Fibromyalgia is not currently classified as an autoimmune disease, but some researchers believe that it may be one. There is evidence to suggest that fibromyalgia may be caused by an autoimmune response. One study found that people with fibromyalgia have higher levels of certain antibodies in their blood than people without the condition. This suggests that the immune system is attacking the body's own tissues in people with fibromyalgia. Other research has found that people with fibromyalgia are more likely to have other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid diseases, and Lupus. This may be because people with fibromyalgia have a more sensitive immune system, which makes them more likely to develop autoimmune diseases. However, not all researchers believe that fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disease. Some believe that it is a disorder of the central nervous system. This theory is supported by the fact that people with fibromyalgia often have other conditions, such as migraines and irritable bowel syndrome, which are also thought to be disorders of the central nervous system. There is still much research to be done on the causes of fibromyalgia. However, the evidence that is currently available suggests that it may be an autoimmune disease. This theory needs to be further investigated in order to confirm whether or not fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder.

Does boosting the immune system cause an autoimmune flare?

There is some debate as to whether or not boosting the immune system can cause an autoimmune flare. The theory is that, by boosting the immune system, you are essentially giving the body more ammunition to attack itself. Studies to support this claim are inconclusive. Some doctors believe that boosting the immune system may actually help to prevent flares, as the immune system will be better equipped to fight off infection and disease. There is no one definitive answer to this question and it is something that you should discuss with your doctor.

The best way to improve your immune response

There are a number of things that people with fibromyalgia can do to improve their immune response. One of the most important is to get enough sleep. People with fibromyalgia often have trouble sleeping, which can lead to a compromised immune system. It is important to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. People with fibromyalgia should also avoid stress as much as possible. Stress can weaken the immune system, so it is important to find ways to relax and de-stress. Exercise is also an important way to boost the immune system. Regular exercise can help to improve the function of the immune system by increasing the circulation of immune cells throughout the body. It is important to find an exercise routine that is comfortable and does not exacerbate symptoms. Eating a healthy diet is also important for people with fibromyalgia. A diet that is high in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help to boost the immune system. It is also important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat. There are a number of supplements that can also help to improve the immune system. Vitamin C and zinc are two of the most important vitamins for the immune system. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, leafy greens, and tomatoes. Zinc can be found in oysters, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate.

There is currently no definitive answer as to whether echinacea is effective in treating fibromyalgia. Some studies have shown that echinacea may help to relieve some of the symptoms associated with the condition, while other studies have not found any significant benefit. Therefore, it is recommended that fibromyalgia sufferers speak with their doctor before taking echinacea to see if it may be right for them.

What is Central Sensitization Syndrome?

Central sensitization syndrome, otherwise known as CSS, is a condition that results in increased sensitivity to pain. The nervous system becomes oversensitive and overreacts to stimuli that would normally not be painful. This can result in a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain.

CSS is often seen in people who have chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia or nerve damage. It can also be caused by inflammation or injury. Treatment for CSS often includes medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Central sensitization syndrome (CSS) is a condition that causes increased sensitivity to pain

CSS is a condition that causes increased sensitivity to pain. This heightened pain response can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, including but not limited to: certain medications, injuries, illnesses, and psychological stressors.

Individuals with CSS may find that even gentle touch or pressure can result in pain, and that the intensity and duration of their pain is amplified. In some cases, the pain experienced by people with CSS can be so severe that it interferes with their ability to carry out activities of daily living.

CSS is characterized by a heightened sense of pain and increased sensitivity to both painful and non-painful stimuli. In other words, people with CSS feel pain more intensely than people without CSS, and they may also feel pain in response to things that normally wouldn’t cause pain (such as a light touch). CSS can also cause a range of other symptoms, including fatigue, trouble sleeping, and difficulty concentrating.

CSS can be caused by a variety of conditions

When we experience an injury or an infection, our nervous system goes into overdrive in order to help us heal. In some cases, however, the nervous system does not return to its normal state after the threat has passed. This can be due to a variety of factors, including early life trauma, anxiety, physical inactivity, and chronic pain conditions. When this happens, we develop central sensitization syndrome (CSS).

It can also be caused by underlying conditions such as fibromyalgia, endometriosis or irritable bowel syndrome. Once CSS develops, it can become a chronic condition that is difficult to treat.

CSS can lead to a number of symptoms

Pain is one of the most common symptoms of CSS. The pain associated with CSS can be described as burning, shooting, aching, or stabbing. It is often worse with touch or movement, and can be resistant to pain medications. People with CSS may also have heightened sensitivity to pain, meaning that even light touch can trigger pain. CSS can also cause sleep problems. People with CSS may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. They may also experience restless leg syndrome, which can make it difficult to get a restful night’s sleep.

CSS can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Pain that is widespread and deep
• Sensitivity to touch, pressure and temperature
• Fatigue
• Sleep problems
• Depression

The symptoms of CSS can vary from person to person, and they can range from mild to severe. In some cases, the symptoms of CSS can be disabling. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that you can get the appropriate treatment.

CSS can have a significant impact on quality of life

CSS can have a significant impact on quality of life. This is because CSS can cause pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and other problems that can make it difficult to carry out daily activities. CSS can also cause emotional distress, which can impact relationships and work. The impact of CSS on quality of life can be significant, and it is important to be aware of this if you are living with CSS.

Central sensitization syndrome (CSS) is a condition that occurs when the nervous system becomes sensitized to pain. This can happen as a result of an injury, illness, or even emotional stress. When the nervous system is sensitized, it becomes more sensitive to pain and can make even normal activities, like brushing your hair or walking, become painful. In some cases, CSS can become so severe that people can’t leave their homes or go to work.

There is no cure for CSS, but the condition can be managed with medication, physical therapy, and other treatments

There is no cure for central sensitization syndrome (CSS), but the condition can be managed with medication, physical therapy, and other treatments. Treatment for CSS often requires a multimodal approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for the condition. Medication can be used to help control pain, while physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles and other tissues that are affected by CSS. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of CSS.

When choosing a treatment plan for CSS, it is important to work with a healthcare team that is experienced in treating the condition. The team should be able to customize the treatment plan to meet the individual needs of the patient.

There is currently no definitive test for CSS

There is no definitive test for central sensitization syndrome (CSS) and diagnosis is often based on symptoms and a history of pain. Sometimes people with CSS are misdiagnosed with other conditions, such as fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndrome. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person.

CSS is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that other conditions must be ruled out before a diagnosis of CSS can be made. To make a diagnosis of CSS, your doctor will likely ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order tests, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to rule out other conditions. There is no cure for CSS, but treatments can help lessen symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Treatment options for CSS include: 

• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help relieve pain, relax muscles, improve sleep or treat depression. 
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to help ease pain and improve range of motion. 
• Biofeedback: This technique can help you learn to control your body's response to pain. 
• Stress management: Stress can worsen symptoms of CSS. Learning ways to manage stress can help lessen symptoms.

There is still much researchers do not know about CSS, but it is a growing area of interest

There is still much researchers do not know about central sensitization syndrome. Researchers are only just beginning to understand how the condition develops and what factors contribute to its severity. There is no cure for CSS, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. These can include: pain medication; physical therapy; exercise; relaxation techniques; and counseling. CSS is a condition that is still not fully understood by researchers. However, it is a growing area of interest and more research is being conducted into the causes, symptoms and treatment of the condition.

While there is no cure for CSS, there are treatments that can help lessen the pain and other symptoms. There is still much to learn about the best way to treat CSS and how to prevent the condition from getting worse.

Does Vitamin D improve Fibromyalgia Symptoms?

According to the National Institutes of Health, fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. One such treatment is vitamin D.

Vitamin D is a nutrient that is found in food and produced by the body when exposed to sunlight. It is important for strong bones and muscles. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a number of health problems, including an increased risk of falling and bone fractures. There is some evidence to suggest that vitamin D may help improve fibromyalgia symptoms. One study found that people with fibromyalgia who took vitamin D supplements had less pain and fatigue. Another study found that vitamin D may help to improve quality of life in people with fibromyalgia. If you are considering taking vitamin D supplements to help improve your fibromyalgia symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor first. Vitamin D can interact with certain medications and may not be appropriate for everyone.

Vitamin D is important for many bodily functions.

Vitamin D is a nutrient that is important for many bodily functions. It is involved in calcium absorption, bone and muscle health, and immune system function. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a number of health conditions, including osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. A growing body of evidence suggests that vitamin D deficiency may also be a risk factor for fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Vitamin D deficiency is common in people with fibromyalgia, and some studies have found that fibromyalgia symptoms improve with vitamin D supplementation. There is still much research to be done in this area, but the evidence so far suggests that vitamin D may be a helpful treatment for fibromyalgia. If you have fibromyalgia, speak to your doctor about whether vitamin D supplementation is right for you.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can cause pain and fatigue

Vitamin D is a nutrient that is essential for good health. It helps the body absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D also plays a role in the immune system, and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Research on the use of vitamin D for treating fibromyalgia is limited, but promising. A small study from 2017 found that vitamin D supplementation improved pain, fatigue, and sleep quality in people with fibromyalgia. Another study, from 2019, found that vitamin D supplementation improved quality of life and decreased pain and fatigue in people with fibromyalgia. Although more research is needed, vitamin D supplementation may be a helpful treatment for people with fibromyalgia.

Some research has shown that vitamin D may help improve symptoms of fibromyalgia.

A small study published in 2012 found that vitamin D supplementation may help improve symptoms of fibromyalgia. The study involved 41 women with fibromyalgia who were divided into two groups. One group took a daily supplement containing vitamin D, while the other group took a placebo. After 12 weeks, the group taking vitamin D reported significantly less pain and fatigue, as well as improvements in their quality of life, compared to the placebo group. Other research has also found that vitamin D may be beneficial for people with fibromyalgia. A review of several studies found that vitamin D deficiency is common in people with fibromyalgia, and that vitamin D supplementation may help improve some fibromyalgia symptoms. A large study published in 2015 found that people with fibromyalgia who were deficient in vitamin D were more likely to have severe symptoms, including greater pain and fatigue, than those who had sufficient levels of vitamin D. The study also found that people with fibromyalgia who took vitamin D supplements had modest improvements in symptoms.

Vitamin D is found in food sources such as fatty fish and eggs.

There are also many foods that contain vitamin D. Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel are good sources of vitamin D. Beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks also contain small amounts of vitamin D. Some foods, such as milk, orange juice, and cereals, are often fortified with vitamin D.

While some people with fibromyalgia may benefit from taking a vitamin D supplement, it is important to speak with a doctor before starting any new supplement. Some research suggests that vitamin D may help to improve pain and fatigue in people with fibromyalgia, but more research is needed to confirm these effects. In addition, vitamin D is necessary for bone health, so people with fibromyalgia should be sure to get enough of this vitamin from food sources or supplements.

You can also get vitamin D from exposure to sunlight.

Many people with fibromyalgia struggle with symptoms that can make everyday activities difficult. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, some research suggests that vitamin D may help improve symptoms. Vitamin D is a nutrient that is essential for many functions in the body. It helps the body absorb calcium, which is important for bone health. Vitamin D is also thought to play a role in immune function, and some research has suggested that it may help reduce inflammation. Exposure to sunlight is one of the best ways to get vitamin D. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces vitamin D. However, it is important to limit sun exposure to prevent skin damage. People with darker skin may need more sun exposure to produce enough vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements are also available. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking any supplements, as too much vitamin D can be harmful. Getting enough vitamin D is important for people with fibromyalgia. Vitamin D may help improve symptoms and make everyday activities easier.

Vitamin D supplements are also available.

There is some evidence that vitamin D supplements may help improve fibromyalgia symptoms. However, the evidence is not conclusive and more research is needed to confirm whether or not vitamin D is effective for treating fibromyalgia. Some studies have found that people with fibromyalgia have lower levels of vitamin D than those without the condition. This has led to the idea that vitamin D supplements may help improve fibromyalgia symptoms. A few small studies have found that vitamin D supplements may help relieve pain and improve sleep in people with fibromyalgia. However, larger and more well-designed studies are needed to confirm these findings. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking vitamin D supplements, as they can interact with certain medications and cause other side effects.

Speak with your doctor before taking any supplements.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether or not supplements, like vitamin D, can help improve fibromyalgia symptoms. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking any type of supplement, as they can interact with other medications you may be taking and cause unwanted side effects. Additionally, some supplements may not be right for people with certain health conditions. For example, people with high blood pressure or kidney disease should not take vitamin D supplements without first speaking to their doctor. Before starting any supplement, it is also important to do your own research and be aware of the possible risks and side effects. For example, vitamin D can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation when taken in large doses. It is also important to be aware that supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so the quality and safety of these products can vary greatly. Whenever possible, get your vitamin D from a well-balanced diet. If you are considering taking a supplement to help with your fibromyalgia symptoms, be sure to speak with your doctor first to see if it is right for you.

Essential Oils for Fibromyalgia

Full article previously published in NAHA Aromatherapy Journal 2015.3

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic medical condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body. To receive a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, a patient must show a history of widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a period lasting more than three months and must show a positive pain reaction in eleven out of eighteen tender points in the body when pressure is applied. Although widespread pain is the primary symptom of fibromyalgia, patients often suffer from severe fatigue, cognitive dysfunction (“brain fog”), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), insomnia, headaches and migraines, anxiety, depression, and an increased sensitivity to light, touch, and sound.

An estimated ten million Americans are currently diagnosed with fibromyalgia, with symptoms that range from tolerable for some, to debilitating for others. Fibromyalgia patients often receive their diagnosis only after all other known causes of their symptoms have been ruled out. Recent research suggests that fibromyalgia associated pain may be caused by a demyelinating process similar to chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).  Understanding the root causes of fibromyalgia pain can lead to better symptom management and an improved quality of life for fibromyalgia patients.

Essential Oils as a Complement Tool for Pain Management

Numerous studies have been conducted that show essential oil use may reduce inflammation and pain. As fibromyalgia research progresses, our understanding of the physiological changes that occur in the body can provide insight to the most appropriate essential oil choices for the fibromyalgia client.

Blue gum eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) essential oil research has shown reduced inflammation and pain when inhaled. Participants in the study were clients who received total knee replacement surgery and also received traditional treatment therapies, in addition to essential oil inhalation therapy. Pain and inflammation in the human body have a negative effect on autonomic body functions resulting in increased blood pressure and heart rate. Researchers theorize that inhalation has a direct effect on the autonomic and sympathetic body systems by way of the olfactory system. Participants in the study that inhaled eucalyptus essential oil had reduced blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and a reduced perception of pain when compared to the control group.

Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) essential oil studies have also shown a reduction in neuropathic pain.   Researchers theorize that neuropathic pain is perpetuated by calcium and oxygen free radicals competing for dominance. As one level increases, the other level will also increase, creating a vicious cycle that causes the pain state. Their research using rat models demonstrates reduced levels of calcium and oxygen free radicals in addition to an observed reduction in pain.

Black pepper (Piper nigrum) essential oil has been shown to have strong analgesic and antiinflammatory effect. Furthermore, the study conducted by Farhana et al. showed black pepper essential oil had significant analgesic effect when compared to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) and control groups in the study. Essential oil from Piper nigrum has the potential to be skin irritating if not well-diluted due to the hot and spicy nature of the oil.  Black pepper essential oil should be well tolerated as a topical application when diluted with a carrier oil at a one percent ratio. Proper use of black pepper essential oil at safe levels also demonstrates far fewer side effects than its pharmaceutical counterpart.

Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) essential oil research involving mice shows reduced inflammation and strong analgesic activity in both acute and chronic cases. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) essential oil research shows reduction in free radical activity, neuropathy pain reduction, and improvement in cognitive function due to diabetes mellitus.  Significant research has been conducted on the neuroprotective effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) essential oil that shows reduction in inflammatory response, free radical expression and improved cognitive function.  Ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract research has also shown improvement in both myelinated nerve fiber loss and oxidative stress in nerve lesions associated with neuropathic pain.

Essential Oils Offer Added Values for Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Fibromyalgia clients struggle with multiple issues along with the primary complaint of chronic pain. In addition to answering the primary concern of pain, an essential oil has multiple beneficial values to offer. For example, Black pepper (Piper nigrum) essential oil offers energetic qualities such as a reduction in both fatigue and depression in addition to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.  Blue gum eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) essential oil also provides support by soothing exhaustion and aiding with concentration.

It is the energetic values of essential oils that potentially provide a greater health benefit to the fibromyalgia patient. Not all patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia display every symptom, nor do they all experience the same level of pain. An aromatherapy blend has the potential to address primary and multiple secondary complaints simultaneously.

Aromatherapy as an art, is designed to support the individual by getting to know that individual. While generalizations can be made about the benefits of a specific essential oil, it is not assumed that one particular essential oil will be a match for everyone in need of that benefit. By following current research on essential oils and chronic health problems we, as aromatherapists, can provide appropriate choices for individual clients.

References

1. The National Fibromyalgia Association, “FM Fact Sheet,” [Online]. Available: http://www.fmaware.org/about-fibromyalgia/science-of-fm/fmfact-sheet/. [Accessed April 30,  2015].
2. Caro XJ, Winter EF (2014) “Evidence of abnormal epidermal nerve fiber density in fibromyalgia: clinical and immunologic implications.” Arthritis Rheumatol, vol. 66, no. 7, pp. 1945-54. DOI: 10.1002/ art.38662.
3. Giannoccaro MP, Donadiao V, Incensi A, Avoni P, Liquori R. (2014, May) “Small nerve fiber involvement in patients referred for fibromyalgia,” Muscle Nerve, (49) pp. 757-9. DOI: 10.1002/ mus.24156.
4. Yang Suk Jun, Purum Kang, Sun Seek Min, Jeong-Min Lee, Hyo-Keun Kim, and Geun Hee Seol. (2013) “Effect of Eucalyptus Oil Inhalation on Pain and Inflammatory Responses after Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Clinical Trial,” EvidenceBased Complementary and Alternative Medicine, p. 7. DOI: 10.1155/2013/502727.
5. Kaur, Gurpreet, Bali, Anjana, Singh, Nirmal, & Jaggi, Amteshwar S. (2015) “Ameliorative potential of Ocimum sanctum in chronic constriction injury-induced neuropathic pain in rats,” Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, Vol. 87, pp. 417-429. DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765201520130008.
6. Kaur, Gurpreet, Jaggi, Amteshwar Singh and Singh, Nirmal. (2010) “Exploring the potential effect of Ocimum sanctum in vincristineinduced neuropathic pain in rats,” Journal of Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury, Vol. 5. DOI: 10.1186/1749-7221-5-3.
7. Farhana Tasleem, Iqbal Azhar, Syed Nawazish Ali, Shaista Perveen, Zafar Alam Mahmood. “Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Piper nigrum L,” (2014) Asian Pac J Trop Med,  (7) pp. S461-S468. DOI: 10.1016/S1995-7645(14)60275-3.
8. Black and Butje, Inc. (2015) “Aromatherapy Courses,” Aromahead Institute. [Online] [Cited: May 15, 2015.]
9. Mahesh B. Narkhede, Atul E. Wagh, Ashish M. Rathi. (2012, April) “Anti-inflammatory activity of vetiveria zizanioides (linn.) Root,” Journal of Pharmacy Research, (5) pp. 2016-2017.
10. Akan, Z, et al. (2014, June) “Effects of Thymus Vulgaris L. and Thymbra Spicata L. on diabetes mellitus associated cognitive impairment and neuropathy: Thymus Vulgaris and Cognitive Function Improvements,” Medical Science and Discovery, (1) pp. 16-21.
11. Zhang, D, et al. (2013) “Curcumin and Diabetes: A Systematic Review,” Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. DOI: 10.1155/2013/636053.
12. Wattanathorn, J, et al. (2015) “The Combined Extract of Zingiber officinale and Zea mays (Purple Color) Improves Neuropathy, Oxidative Stress, and Axon Density in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats,”  Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. DOI: 10.1155/2015/301029 http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ ecam/2015/301029
13. Black and Butje, Inc. (2015) “Aromatherapy Courses,” Aromahead Institute. [Online][Cited: May 15, 2015.]

Gluten free diet: fad or benefit?

There's no denying a healthy diet is necessary to managing FM symptoms. But when you hit the internet you quickly learn that there are multiple diets that make the claim they can help. Which one is right? The only answer that matters is that it's the right diet for you.

Gluten-free diets have gained popularity in recent years, but there is still some debate as to whether or not they are actually beneficial. Some people claim that a gluten-free diet has helped them to feel better and to lose weight, while others say that it is nothing more than a fad diet with no real benefits. So, what is the truth? Is a gluten-free diet a fad or a benefit?

What is gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is what gives bread its chewy texture and helps to bind together other ingredients. For people with celiac disease, ingesting gluten can damage the lining of the small intestine, which can lead to a host of other health problems. There is no cure for celiac disease, and the only treatment is to avoid eating gluten. This can be a challenge, as gluten is found in many common foods, such as bread, pasta, cereal, and baked goods. It is also often used as a food additive, so it can be hard to tell if a product contains gluten. People with celiac disease are not the only ones avoiding gluten. Some people without the disease report feeling better when they cut gluten out of their diet. It is not clear why this is the case, but it may be due to other food sensitivities or allergies. Whether or not to eat gluten is a personal decision. If you have celiac disease, you must avoid gluten to stay healthy. If you don't have the disease, you may still want to avoid gluten if you feel better when you do. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to help you figure out what is best for you.

How does gluten affect inflammation?

When it comes to gluten, there are two schools of thought: those who think it’s a major problem and those who think it’s no big deal. If you’re in the 'no big deal' school, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. After all, gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley – all of which have been consumed by humans for centuries. So why the sudden interest in gluten-free diets? The fact is that our relationship with gluten has changed. In the past, most people ate gluten-containing foods that were made from whole grains that were freshly milled. Today, however, most of the wheat we eat is processed, and much of it is refined. This means that the gluten it contains is more concentrated and more likely to cause problems. Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, rye and barley. It is a protein that is responsible for the structure of bread. When flour is mixed with water, the gluten forms a network that traps the gas bubbles produced by the yeast, resulting in a light and airy bread. The processing of wheat has changed the structure of gluten. Gluten is made up of two proteins, gliadin and glutenin. Gliadin is the protein that is responsible for the elastic properties of dough, while glutenin is responsible for the strength and structure of the dough. The processing of wheat removes the bran and the germ from the wheat, which contains most of the glutenin. This leaves a flour that is mostly made up of the protein gliadin. Gliadin is a smaller protein than glutenin, and it is more soluble in water. As a result, processed flour is higher in gluten than whole wheat flour. The higher gluten content of processed flour means that it is more likely to cause problems for people who are sensitive to gluten. When people with gluten sensitivity eat foods made with processed flour, their body reacts by producing inflammation. This inflammation can lead to a number of different health problems, including digestive problems, skin problems, and joint pain. There is also a subgroup of people who have celiac disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that is triggered by the consumption of gluten. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their body produces an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage can prevent the absorption of nutrients, and it can lead to a host of other problems, including fatigue, weight loss, and anemia. The bottom line is that gluten can cause problems for some people. If you think you might be one of those people, the best thing to do is to speak to your doctor and get tested.

Is there any research to suggest a gluten free diet can minimize fibromyalgia symptoms?

There has been some research to suggest that a gluten free diet may help to minimize the symptoms of fibromyalgia. One study, which was published in the journal ‘Nutrition & Metabolism’, found that a group of fibromyalgia sufferers who followed a gluten free diet for three months experienced a significant reduction in their symptoms. Another study, which was published in the ‘Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine’, found that a group of fibromyalgia sufferers who followed a gluten free diet for six months experienced a significant improvement in their condition. However, it should be noted that both of these studies were relatively small and more research is needed in order to confirm the efficacy of a gluten free diet for fibromyalgia sufferers. Additionally, it is important to remember that a gluten free diet is not a cure for fibromyalgia and that symptoms may still return even after following this type of diet.

Many people are choosing to follow a gluten free diet, but is it really a healthy choice? While there are some benefits to a gluten free diet, there is also a lot of misinformation out there about this way of eating. So, is a gluten free diet right for you? It depends on your individual needs and goals. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, then a gluten free diet is a must. But, if you're simply looking to improve your overall health, there are other, more effective ways to do so. Do your research and define your goals before starting any diet. And as always, discuss any changes with your doctor, especially if you have other conditions in addition to fibromyalgia.