Natural Remedies for Fibromyalgia

Natural remedies for fibromyalgia are actually the first line of treatment. Some physicians prescribe pain-relieving medications. But most feel that the risks outweigh the benefits after all, these medications can have serious side effects. Just listen to the long list in the commercials for drugs like Lyrica.

All drugs can damage the liver if used on a continuing basis. Chronic diseases like fibromyalgia have no quick cure. The cause is still unknown. The latest research indicates that differences within the brain are to blame. They may be developmental differences occurring naturally during childhood or caused by stress.

Most cases are accompanied by depressive symptoms. The depression may be due to the chronic pain or the depression might come first. Some data suggests that chronic stress on the body due to lifestyle or environmental factors increases the risk of developing the condition. Natural remedies for fibromyalgia can help by giving the body the nutrients it needs to repair damage in the brain and decrease hyperactive nerve impulses.

The depression, chronic stress and differences in brain function may all be connected. It is logical to assume that they are.

Currently, the most effective nutritional remedies for depression and anxiety are omega-3 fish oil and 5-HTP. They are considered natural anti-depressants by the alternative community. Relieving the depression could help relieve the pain. Other therapies include adequate sleep (Natural Sleep helps with this because it contains Valerian, 5-HTP and an incredible array of amino acids. Talk about getting a restful, but energizing night's sleep. You can also use a natural remedy for depression that contains herbs that help to elevate mood and renew energy and motivation.

Natural Remedies for Fibromyalgia
Can Reduce Pain without Unpleasant Side Effects

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have the added benefit of being natural anti-inflammatories. Research has shown that a dose as low as 2400mg/day of omega-3 fatty acids is an effective natural remedy for fibromyalgia.

Herbs with anti-inflammatory and/or pain-relieving activity include devil's claw, glucosamine, and Indian frankincense. Taking natural remedies for fibromyalgia that reduce joint and muscle pain, while building connective tissue is one of the best measures you can take. Most antioxidants have anti-inflammatory activity, too. Some of the most active include quercetin, rutin, green tea catechins and resveratrol.

The value of basic vitamins such as A, D, C and the B-group should not be overlooked. Dietary minerals such as zinc and magnesium may be beneficial.

A daily dose of coenzyme Q10 can be a helpful natural remedy for fibromyalgia. It is known to support the health of the heart and cardiovascular system. My husband has fibromyalgia and this supplement has been very helpful.

If you are taking a cholesterol-lowering statin drug, you should be taking coenzyme Q10. Statins work by interfering with the body’s production of cholesterol.

The biochemical pathway through which cholesterol particles are produced is the same one through which coenzyme Q10 is produced. Research has shown that statins can lower CoQ10 blood levels by as much as 60%. Many doctors are unaware of this information because they are not trained in nutrition. Lack of COQ10 in the muscles causes severe pain and can lead to muscle death. Everyone can benefit from taking CoQ10, especially those with chronic pain and/or circulation issues.

This last suggestion may be the most important. If your diet is good, you are taking a good multi-nutritional supplement and some omega-3 fish oil, you should try to increase your level of physical activity. Moderate exercise is best because it relieves stress and is something that you will be more likely to continue to do, especially if you make sure that it is something that you enjoy.

Walking can cause increased pain at first, but it is one of the most effective natural remedies for fibromyalgia. It just takes time to see the benefits. So make sure to take your supplements daily and continue to do your exercise. Keep a journal, so that you can keep track of what is working for you. It may take a couple of months for the supplements to build up in your system and relieve pain, but once you start feeling better, you will realize how effective a natural program can be.