Sugar
Studies have found that eating sugary foods is linked to increased fibromyalgia pain. It is a good idea to limit your sugar intake, if not eliminate sugar entirely from your diet. This includes foods such as cookies, cakes, brownies, and pies, as well as adding sugar to foods and beverages. Natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables are healthy and do not need to be avoided. Decreasing your sugar intake will also help you control your weight, which is also linked to increased fibromyalgia pain.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates, such as desserts, breads, and pastas, have also been linked to increased fibromyalgia pain. It is a good idea to stick to a low carb, high protein diet when you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Reducing carbs could help you manage your symptoms, as well as control your weight.
Processed Foods
Processed foods such as packaged meals and canned goods have been found to increase inflammation in the body. Since fibromyalgia symptoms are mostly caused by inflammation, it is a good idea to avoid these foods. Reducing inflammation in the body is one way to control your symptoms.
Unhealthy Fats
Unhealthy fats such as vegetable oils and peanut oil also have an inflammatory effect. This is another food you should avoid, for two reasons. Eating a low fat diet will help you manage your weight, while avoiding unhealthy fats will also help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
Alcohol
Some people with fibromyalgia have found that moderate alcohol consumption helps temporarily relieve symptoms. But studies about this have found that increased alcohol consumption can actually make symptoms worse. It is a good idea to avoid alcohol as much as possible.
If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and are looking for different treatment options, contact our office for an exam and consultation.