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.