So, I recently had a teeny, tiny fender bender while running an errand for my dad's company. Is was quite an hike and partially inconvenient. What could have been an exchange of phone numbers and asta la vista turned into a fiasco. At one point, she claimed she developed fibromyalgia due to the terrible, terrible accident. Considering the zero amount of damage; it was quite the fib. My lack of compassion for her grew to curiosity, what is this disease and how can you get it? Is this reversible by a change in health habits and exercise? Long story short, her claim for fibromyalgia didn't fly, and here is why.
How It Works: Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is caused by a low level of serotonin in your blood. When serotonin is low, it increases pain sensitivity. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that works to
calm, soothe, and reduce anxiety. Now, the body has its own endorphin painkillers, but if serotonin is low then substance P amplifies pain signals.
Causes: Fibromyalgia
This can be genetic in the sense you can be prone to it. It is common amongst those who lack physical activity and eat poorly. It also intensifies with one who is also struggling with depression. It is prevalent in women especially those who are experiencing menopause or just a loss of estrogen. Trauma to the central nervous system can also cause this disease.
What Doctor Mercola Says:
Studies have not been proven that foods will fix chronic diseases such as Fibromyalgia. These health tips can apply to all peoples fighting obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or diabetes.
Suggestions For Those With Chronic Illness:
• Limit Sugar as Much as Possible- Insulin (sugar) increases pain levels. Grains are metabolized as sugar so limit intake of grains as well.
• Eat Fresh Foods- Foods containing additives work against you increasing
symptoms.
• Avoid Caffeine- Fibromyalgia's symptoms include fatigue, this means caffeine will prolong this symptom and increase tiredness in the long run.
• Try Avoiding Nightshade Vegetables- Tomatoes, Potatoes, and Eggplant
• Be Careful with Fats- Animal fats that contain omega-3 fats tend to aid in inflammation and pain.
• Use Yeast Sparingly- Yeast can contribute to yeast fungus which can contribute to pain.
• Avoid Pasteurized Dairy- This is easily digested by those struggling with this chronic illness. Especially organic grass-fed cow milk.
• Cut Down on Carbs- If you deal with chronic illness you have low adrenal functioning, lowering your carb intake can help avoid hyperglycemia.
• Avoid Aspartame- This artificial sweetener is found in sugar-free products and diet soda contains a chemical called excitotoxins. This activates neurons and increase pain sensitivity. Sugar-free foods are usually high in carbs (which convert to sugar) so try to avoid all together.
• Avoid Additives- Food additives increase pain sensitivity such as Monosodium Glutamate (MSG).
• Limit Junk Food- Junk food tears down your immune system, disrupts your sleep, and irritates your muscles. Junk food of course contributes to weight gain which increases the amount of pain.
You may not suffer from fibromyalgia, but you have to take care of yourself so you can avoid this horrible disease. Educating yourself is one of the best ways to be healthy! Stay healthy my friends!
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