People who suffer from fibromyalgia are plagued by persistent pain and chronic fatigue. These symptoms can make it difficult to shop for, prepare, and eat wholesome and nutritious meals. Nevertheless, a healthy diet is very important in helping people with fibromyalgia counteract stress, detoxify the body, and restore nutrients to the areas that need them the most.  It is a good idea for most people, including fibromyalgia patients to limit their intake of sugar, caffeine, and alcohol because these substances can be very stressful for the body. Vitamin and mineral supplements may also be beneficial, but those with fibromyalgia should discuss any new dietary supplements before adding them to their nutritional regimen.  There are also a number of internet sites and magazine ads that claim to offer the latest and greatest “miracle” diets and supplements for the care of fibromyalgia.  Always talk with your health care provider when starting a new nutritional program, as some nutrients and foods can cause serious, or even dangerous, side effects when mixed with certain medications.

The Fibromyalgia Diet: What To Eat

• Flax seed: Flax seed and flax seed oil are great sources of the omega-3 essential fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid.  When consumed, this nutrient converts in the body to hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are natural anti-inflammatory agents that help to reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with fibromyalgia.
• Fish: Fatty fish such as trout, cod, halibut, mackerel and salmon also contain oils that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. As with flax, these nutrients work as natural anti-inflammatory agents to alleviate the pain and swelling of fibromyalgia.
• Alfalfa: Alfalfa contains saponins, sterols, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, vitamins, amino acids, minerals and trace elements.  These nutrients help to control pain and alleviate stiffness.
• Fiber: A high-fiber diet helps to move nutrients and waste through the system more efficiently.  This reduces strain on the digestive system and can help promote regular bowels (Oxy Powder is also a great intestinal cleanser.  Fresh vegetables, especially greens, are excellent sources of fiber.
• Protein: Add Lean protein, such as that found in fish, poultry, and fresh raw nuts and seeds into your diet.
• Water: Water is a vital element for the overall health of the body.  Drinking at least eight glasses of purified water each day helps to improve the circulation, and move nutrients and waste through the system.  A plentiful intake of liquids is also important for flushing out toxins.

The Fibromyalgia Diet: What Not To Eat

• Processed Foods: Foods that are highly processed, such as canned foods, foods that contain large amounts of saturated or hydrogenated fats, such as dairy products, meat, and margarine may be stressful for the body.  Saturated fats, in particular, interfere with circulation, and may be responsible for increasing inflammation and pain.
• Caffeine, Alcohol, and Sugar: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugar as these substances can cause fatigue, increase muscle pain, and interfere with normal sleep patterns.

Preparing and Eating Meals

• Eat Small Meals: Fibromyalgia can make it difficult to shop for, prepare, and cook large nutritious meals.  Try to eat four to five small meals daily rather than three larger ones, so that you will have a good supply of nutrients without the struggle of large meals.
• Take Breaks: Plan to take plenty of breaks while you are preparing and eating your meals.  It will be easier and less stressful to put together a nutritious meal, if you start preparation about a half hour earlier, and allow two fifteen-minute breaks in the process.

Nutritional Supplements

Several nutritional supplements may be useful in alleviating the symptoms of fibromyalgia.  Always discuss the benefits of nutritional supplements with your health care provider before adding a new supplement to your diet.

• Antioxidants: Antioxidants help to neutralize free-radical damage and reduce inflammation. Vitamins A, E, and C and the product “Megahydrate” are good sources of antioxidants
• Evening Primrose Oil: Evening primrose oil is a good source of essential fatty acids.  These nutrients act as a natural anti-inflammatory in the body, thereby reducing the pain of fibromyalgia.
• Vitamin B: If emotional or physical stress is a of problems, taking extra B vitamins will help the nerves and improve energy. You can also visit www.stress-anxiety-depression.org for help.
• Royal Jelly: Bee products such as bee pollen or royal jelly supplements are a safe and effective way to fight the fatigue of fibromyalgia.
• Calcium:  A calcium supplement is great for strengthening the bones and improving muscle and nerve function. Calcium orotate is the best form.
• DHEA: DHEA has been used successfully in the treatment of other autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and lupus. DHEA helps to restore balance to the immune system and helps to maintain the integrity of the nervous system.
• Grape Seed Extract: Grape seed extract is a powerful antioxidant.  It also helps to support the functioning of the thymus gland.
• Coenzyme Q10: this nutrient is another potent antioxidant that helps to deliver oxygen to cells.
• Lipoic Acid: This supplemental nutrient helps to enhance the metabolism of carbohydrates.  It also helps to boost energy levels.

Fibro-Balance^® is the most complete fibromyalgia product available in 2006. In the initial studies, 100% of the fibromyalgia sufferers had at least a 50% reduction in symptoms by the 6th week while taking Fibro-Balance^®.

What is Guaifenesin?

Guaifenesin is a medication that thins the mucus in the respiratory system and makes it easier to breathe. It relieves the coughs of colds, bronchitis, and other lung infections by allowing the patient to cough up mucus and clear the airways. This medication is also prescribed for other uses.  Read on to learn more about guaifenesin and how it is used to help alleviate the symptoms of fibrimyalgia.

Medication Names: Anti-Tuss, Bidex, Breonesin, Duratuss G, Fenesin, Ganidin NR, GG 200 NR, Guaifenesin LA, Guaifenex G, Guaifenex LA, Humibid L.A., Humibid Pediatric, Liquibid, Muco-Fen 1200, Muco-Fen 800, Muco-Fen LA, Naldecon-EX Senior, Organidin NR, Pneumomist, Q-Bid LA, Robitussin, Scot-Tussin, Touro EX, Fibro-Balance

How Is Guaifenesin Used To Treat Fibromyalgia Patients?

Guaifenesin is a mildly uricosuric medication. Uricosuric drugs are used in the treatment of gout as they stimulate the urinary excretion of uric acid. Although they are unsure of the exact connection, researchers have begun to understand that uricosuric drugs also work for fibromyalgia.  The theory is that these types of medication help to remedy some time of chemical imbalance in the body that is causing the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

How Should I Take Guaifenesin?

Take each dose of medication with a full glass of water, and be sure to drink extra fluids throughout the day to help purge excess waste from the system. If guaifenesin gives you an upset stomach, take it with food. Guaifenesin comes in tablet, capsule or liquid form. Talk with your health care provider about the form of medication that would be easiest for you to take. Carefully, follow the medication instructions on the package and be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about this perscription. Do not alter the dosage without first condulting your physician. If your symptoms do not improve within seven days or if you have a high fever, rash, or persistent headache, call your doctor immediately.

How Often Should I Take Guaifenesin for Fibromyalgia?

Your health care provider will help you determine the dosage of guaifenesin that will work best for you.  The dosage varies from 300 milligrams twice a day to as high as 3600 milligrams per day.  The progress of treatment can be measured by the improvement of symptoms and the reduction of pain and spasms in the body’s tender points.

What Special Precautions Should I Follow?

Before taking guaifenesin, talk with your health care professional about the possible side effects of this medication, as well as effect on any other medications that you may be taking. Guaifenesin may cause dizziness; therefore, you should be cautious about driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities while taking this medication. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities. Guaifenesin is listed in category C of the FDA approved medications for pregnancy. This means that it is not known whether guaifenesin will harm an unborn baby.  Talk with your doctor first about taking this medication is you are pregnant or planning to become so.  Also, if you are currently breast-feeding, guaifenesin may affect your breast milk. Again, talk with your health care provider or your child’s pediatrician if you are considering taking this medication. Guaifenesin has not been approved by the FDA for use by children younger than 2 years of age.

Another important note for people considering taking guaifenesin is that this medication cannot be used in conjunction with aspirin, aloe, or herbal medications (this includes any skin creams or topical products that contain herbs. The reason for this precaution is that the salicylates found in these products block the action of guaifenesin, even if they are applied to the skin. Here is a partial list of products that cannot be used when taking guaifenesin.

• Aspirin or other pain products that contain salicylate or salicylic acid (Salsalate, Disalcid, Anacin, Excedrin
• Herbal products that contain ginseng, St. John’s wort, gingko biloba, saw palmetto, blue-green algae, Echinacea, or noni juice; Throat lozenges with menthol, mint, peppermint or spearmint Ben Gay, Myoflex, Zostrix, and other pain creams that contain capsaicin or capsicum
• Skin cleansers or exfoliants that use salicylic/ betahydroxy acid(s).
• Shampoos, conditioners, bubble baths, lotions, moisturizers , cosmetics or hairsprays with plant derivatives. Sunscreens or tanning lotions with aloe or a salicylate component.
• Razors with aloe strips

What Side Effects Does Guaifenesin Cause?

Side effects from guaifenesin are quite rare, but they are still possible. Consult your health care provider if you begin to experience headaches, an upset stomach or vomiting after taking this medication.

Is It Possible to Overdose on Guaifenesin?

An overdose of guaifenesin is highly unlikely.  But if you do suspect that you have taken too much of this medication, call an emergency room or poison control center near you.

Your local poison control center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition whose main symptoms are muscle pain, fatigue, and poor sleep. Fibromyalgia is chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain and stiffness; as well as fatigue, poor sleep and the presence of localized tender points. This syndrome affects roughly four to six million Americans, about 75 percent of who are women between the ages of thirty to fifty. One recent survey estimated that approximately 20 percent of people who suffer from fibromyalgia undergo acupuncture therapy within two years of diagnosis.  If you or a loved one suffers from fibromyalgia, read on to learn more about the possible healing effects of acupuncture. Since fibromyalgia causes depression the acupuncturist can also help with the symptoms of depression. More helpful information can be found at www.stress-anxiety-depression.org

Description of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine.  The practice of acupuncture is based on the theory that there are patterns of energy flow through the body that are essential for health. Health is defined in terms of a vital force of energy called Qi, which circulates between the organs along channels called meridians. Traditional Chinese medicine acupuncturists seek to identify imbalances in the Qi.  Once this imbalance is identified, the acupuncture practitioner then selects the appropriate acupuncture points from among approximately 360 points distributed along the body’s meridians.

The practice of acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific acupuncture points on the skin.  These points are stimulated by the insertion of needles ranging in length from one to ten centimeters. The typical treatment will use anywhere from five to fifteen needles, with varying point combinations.  The needles are inserted to a depth of about five centimeters.

Treating Fibromyalgia with Acupuncture

Using the theories of traditional Chinese medicine, fibromyalgia occurs due to an imbalance in the energy flow of the body. In the treatment of fibromyalgia, the following acupuncture points are used: UB 11, 17, 18, 20 and 23.

Typically, the patient is treated once a week for six weeks. The acupuncture needles are  inserted for five to six days with the patient removing the needles about 24-48 hours before the next visit. This avoids the over stimulation of the points which could render them inactive. As the patient’s symptoms begin to recede, treatment can be reduced to every other week.

Usually, after about ten treatments, the patient will feel significant pain reduction and an improvement in energy and sleeping patterns. It also helps to apply a topical pain formula over the acupuncture points. The best formula can be found at www.ghchealth.com

Can Acupuncture Treat Fibromyalgia?

A recent study performed at the University of Maryland evaluated the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome.  The researchers selected all randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials, or cohort studies of patients with fibromyalgia that were treated with acupuncture. They concluded that real acupuncture is more effective than sham acupuncture for relieving pain, increasing pain thresholds, improving global ratings, and reducing the morning stiffness of fibromyalgia.  However, they also noted that the length of recovery could not be determined.  Many patients may require repeat treatments.

In most cases of fibromyalgia unexpected weight gain can occur. If this is a problem, acupuncture can help. Another good resource for losing weight is www.weightlossobesity.com

Side Effects of Acupuncture

The serious side effects that are possible with acupuncture include transmission of infectious disease, pneumothorax, organ punctures, spinal lesions, cardiac tamponade, and broken needles. Minor side effects include forgotten needles, exacerbation of symptoms, minor bleeding, hematoma, fatigue, sweating, severe nausea, fainting, and headache.  A recent survey of acupuncture treatments found that of the 32,000 treatment patients surveyed, roughly 14 per 10,000 visits involved some type of side effect.  But none of these were deemed to be serious.

Finding A Qualified Acupuncturist

The first state to license acupuncture, as an independent health care profession was California in 1976. Since that time, forty more states and the District of Columbia have adopted similar laws. A few states require the supervision of a physician for the 11,000 acupuncturists that are not themselves physicians.

The typical education standard for an acupuncturist is between 2,000 and 3,000 hours of training in independently accredited master’s degree 4-year schools. Although some states allow physicians to practice acupuncture without additional education, most states require between 200 and 300 hours of special training. There are approximately 3,000 acupuncturists with medical degrees practicing in the United States.

Each state has rules and regulations in regard to the licensure of acupuncturists.  The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture produced a table in 1999 that outlines the requirements of each state.

Fibromyalgia is a controversial condition that has been misdiagnosed and under diagnosed for centuries.  Today, as many as eight million Americans are reported to be afflicted with fibromyalgia. Those numbers will only continue to grow as doctors become better educated in understanding the symptoms and causes of the condition.  Fibromyalgia is a debilitating disease that causes pain, exhaustion, and a number of additional physical and mental complaints. Individuals who suffer from this condition need the support of friends and family members to help them understand fibromyalgia, learn more about the condition, and cope with the symptoms of their illness.

Understanding Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects the body in a number of ways. There are numerous symptoms that could fall under the classification of fibromyalgia.  Not every person will experience every symptom.  The following is a comprehensive list of symptoms that are commonly associated with fibromyalgia.  It is important for both fibromyalgia patients, and the friends and family in their support network to understand the symptoms that fibromyalgia can cause.

The Most Common Symptoms: Widespread pain, fatigue, migraines and headaches, sleep disorders, dizziness, irritability, nervousness, depression, apathy, listlessness, impaired cognitive ability and memory, and anxiety.

Digestive Symptoms: Irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, indigestion, gas, bloating, cramps, constipation alternating with diarrhea; pungent urine, frequent urination, bladder spasms, burning urination, and interstitial cystitis are common. For more information on digestive symptoms go to www.colon-cleanse-constipation.com

Symptoms of the Reproductive System: Vaginal pain, vaginal spasms, irritation of the vaginal lips, and painful intercourse. Individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia also commonly experience intense premenstrual symptoms and cramping.

Dermatological Symptoms: Various rashes may appear with or without itching: hives, red blotches, tiny bumps or blisters, eczema, seborrheic or neurodermatitis. Nails are often brittle and poor quality; hair falls out prematurely. The skin may give off sensations such as cold, heat (especially palms, soles and thighs), crawling, electric vibrations, prickling, super-sensitivity to touch, or flushing sometimes with heavy sweating.

Other Symptoms: Redness, swelling, and heat in the joints; dry eyes with itching or burning and blurred vision; nasal congestion and post-nasal drip; irritated tongue or abnormal tastes (bad, scalded or metallic); ringing or swishing sounds; numbness and tingling hands, feet or face; leg or foot cramps; weight gain; low grade fevers; greater susceptibility to infections and allergies; heightened sensitivity to sounds, lights, odors or chemicals; morning eyelid and hand swelling from fluid retention that gravitates to the lower legs where it stretches tissues causing the restless leg syndrome.

Mental Symptoms: Many people with fibromyalgia experience episodes of unclear or “foggy” thinking. Forgetfulness and confusion are commonly associated with this condition. Individuals with fibromyalgia call this cognitive dysfunction “brain fog” or “fibro fog.”

Learning More About Fibromyalgia

If you are diagnosed with fibromyalgia, or if you think this condition is responsible for your symptoms, it is important for you to learn everything you can about it.  The library and www.fibromyalgia-support.org.  a great source for books and other materials about fibromyalgia.  Talk with your health care provider about any questions you have regarding your condition.  And get connected with a fibromyalgia support group to learn about the latest fibromyalgia news, research and events. A fibromyalgia support group will also keep you informed about activities related to the annual Fibromyalgia Awareness Day.

May 12th of every year is Fibromyalgia Awareness Day. Since its inception in 1997, the National Fibromyalgia Association has led Awareness Day activities nationwide in an effort to increase awareness of fibromyalgia and other chronic pain illnesses. The National Fibromyalgia Association works with area organizations to offer free classes and literature during this week to help fibromyalgia sufferers learn more about their condition and develop a support system for coping with their symptoms.

Coping With Fibromyalgia

The best medicine for fibromyalgia is a strong and loving support system.  Friends and family can provide tremendous emotional and physical support, helping individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia cope with their illness.  Specifically, a good support network can help the patient achieve the following goals:

• Improved Quality of Life: The pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia can be physically and emotionally debilitating. Without help, fibromyalgia patients may have difficulty performing daily tasks such as taking out the trash or preparing a nutritious meal.  Fibromyalgia sufferers also have a tendency to become depressed if they don’t have loving friends and family to boost their morale.
• Consistent Health Care: People who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia may become overwhelmed by the quantity and frequency of their symptoms.  The objective eye of a friend or family member can help them distinguish between the typical symptoms of fibromyalgia, and more serious symptoms that should be evaluated by a health care provider.
• Increased Self-Esteem: When fibromyalgia strikes, many people find that they must say good-bye to a piece of their former selves.  Hobbies like needlework or jogging may no longer be possible.  But with a strong support network, a person who has fibromyalgia can learn to discover new activities and interests that fit into their new lifestyle.

Fibromyalgia is a complex and multi faceted disease. Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic pain and fatigue as well as symptoms such as digestive disorders, disrupted sleep, headaches, and depression. Many people with fibromyalgia aim to relieve the pain associated with their condition with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. These remedies may offer some relief, but are not effective at alleviating any of the other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. Natural remedies for fibromyalgia tend to work with a holistic approach in the treatment of fibromyalgia that focuses on the overall health of the individual. Herbal remedies, nutritional therapy, homeopathic remedies, stress management techniques, exercise therapy, massage therapy, deep heat therapy, and biofeedback are all helpful in the relief of fibromyalgia symptoms.

Herbal Remedies

Plants have been used for centuries for their medicinal and nutritional benefits. In fact, more than 50 percent of the processed medications available today are derived from plant sources. Herbs are plant parts such as the seeds, leaves, roots and stems that can be used in their natural state to prevent illnesses and promote overall health. Herbal remedies can help to alleviate fibromyalgia by reducing inflammation, stimulating hormones, providing immune system support and eliminating pain. The following herbs can be used for the care and support of fibromyalgia.

St. John’s Wort: This natural antidepressant helps to stimulate the adrenal gland hormones to help relieve stress.

For more help with stress and depression associated with fibromyalgia go to www.stress-anxiety-depression.org

• St. John’s Wort is also an effective anti-viral agent and helps to relieve pain.
• Siberian Ginseng: This energizing herb helps to relieve the fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
• Turmeric: Turmeric is recommended by herbalists to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Immune System Boosters: Herbs such as cayenne, Echinacea, goldenseal, astralagus, myrrh, grape seed extract, and chaparral help to boost the immune system and improve the circulation within the body.
• Garlic: Garlic is a potent antioxidant that helps to enhance immune system function. It is also an excellent detoxifier.
• Ginkgo Biloba: This herb works well at improving the circulation and restoring cognitive ability.
• Devil’s Claw Root: Devil’s Claw Root is a natural anti- inflammatory that is used in the treatment of many rheumatic disorders.
• Willow Bark: This anti-inflammatory herb helps to reduce the pain and swelling associated with fibromyalgia.
• Licorice Root: Licorice root has pain relieving properties similar to cortisone, but without the harmful side effects.
• Dandelion: Dandelion is excellent at reducing pain in the connective tissue.
• Valerian Root: This herb is useful in improving sleep patterns and alleviating the fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
• Pine-bark: This natural anti-inflammatory helps to reduce swelling and ease the pain of fibromyalgia.
• The most potent and successful Fibromyalgia treatment product is Fibro-Balance by Global Healing Center, www.ghchealth.com.

Nutritional Therapy

While there is no direct link between fibromyalgia and diet, most fibromyalgia sufferers have found that there symptoms are reduced when they follow a diet that is low in refined sugars and processed foods, and high in fiber and vitamins. Malabsorption of nutrients is common in fibromyalgia patients. Use a product called Oxy-Powder to clean the intestines – www.colon-cleanse-constipation.com. All essential nutrients are needed in greater amounts to be sure that the body receives an adequate supply. The body needs at least forty different vitamins and minerals on a daily basis. A healthy diet, rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, is essential in reducing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Also, food allergies are common in those who suffer from fibromyalgia. Have your health care provider administer the appropriate tests to determine if there are any foods that you are allergic or hypersensitive to.

Homeopathic Remedies

The following homeopathic remedies have been found to be useful in the care and treatment of fibromyalgia.

• Gorse: Gorse helps to ease the depression that is common among fibromyalgia sufferers.
• Aspen: Aspen works to alleviate stress and anxiety, especially when the exact source of anxiety is unknown. This is helpful for fibromyalgia sufferers who also experience a great deal of nervous stress and anxiety
• Impatiens: this flower helps to resolve the nervousness and tension that can exacerbate the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia.

Exercise Therapy

Most people who develop fibromyalgia, respond to the pain and fatigue by reducing the movement of their bodies. Nevertheless, this can actually make the symptoms of fibromyalgia worse. It is very important to keep moving, even if it is just small steps and stretches each day, so that you can maintain some range of motion in your joints and strength in your muscles. In most cases lack of exercise can lead to unexpected weight gain, if this is a problem, a good resource is www.weightlossobesity.com

For those who can handle it, a workout of up to thirty minutes each day can greatly improve the overall health, alleviate sleep disturbances, and reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Work with your doctor or physical therapist to develop an exercise program that starts out slowly and gradually becomes more challenging. This will help reduce the risk of jarring your sensitive joints or traumatizing your muscles. Good exercises to choose from include: low-impact aerobics, walking, swimming, Pilates, riding a stationary bike, tai chi, yoga, and gentle stretching exercises.

Fibromyalgia is a recently recognized disorder that is regarded as a chronic condition associated with the experience of non-inflammatory pain and tenderness in muscles, ligaments, joints and fatigue. Fibromyalgia is a relatively common condition, estimated to affect about four percent of the general population. It is very similar to chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS); Only point of difference is presence of musculoskeletal pain in fibromyalgia and that of fatigue in CFS. Low level of Serotonin is considered to be most important biochemical criteria. The primary treatment goals should include raise serotonin levels, improve sleep quality, and assure adequate magnesium levels.

Symptoms

• Generalized aches or stiffness at many sites for more than three months
• Generalized fatigue
• Chronic headache including migraines
• Sleep disorder, particularly timings of cycles
• Neuronal and psychological complaints
• Swelling
• Numbness/ tingling sensations

Ayurvedic View

It can be described as ‘Mansa Dhatugat and Mansavrut Vata’ Fibromyalgia is perceived as a Vata imbalance. Vata is the main imbalance and Aggravated Vata destabilizes the nervous system and can create hypersensitivity leading to pain and tenderness. Accumulation of Ama (toxins) and shrotorodha are also contributory factors.

Ayurvedic Approach of Fibromyalgia and CFS Treatment

The aggravation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama (toxins) are the primary causes and should be treated mainly. Associated weak digestion, constipation, and effects of chronic stress should also be tackled.

Panchakarma Therapy

Pre-purification Measures namely ‘snehan’ and ‘swedan are very useful to balance ‘Vata’ and to loosen the toxins. Snehan is the Herbalized Oil Massage. This oil is applied to the entire body with a particular type of massage. Swedan is sudation or sweating and is given immediately following the snehan. An herbal concoction may be added to the steam to further enhancement of effect. Daily herbalized oil massage also provides a deeply soothing and balancing effect to the entire nervous system. The motion of massage creates heat and friction which enhances circulation and helps cleanse the areas of chemical impurities that could be aggravating and hypersensitizing nerve tissues.

Diet and Nutrition

Following is the diet suggested for the patients suffering form Fibromyalgia and CFS:

• Vegetable juices and soups
• Coconut water and Coconut milk
• Juice of carrot, Cucumber, Beetroot
• Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin
• Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric
• Green salad with a dressing of lemon juice and a little salt
• Khichadi (recipe made by cooking rice and mung dal, 1:1 or 1:2 proportion)

The patient of Fibromyalgia and CFS should avoid the following:

Eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, foods like brinjal, cabbage, Cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes. Too much tea, coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate, cocoa. Sleeping during the day and staying up late at night. Mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear, stress and grief.

Yoga for Stress Management and Improved Mental and Emotional Function

It is well documented that fibromyalgia is often worsened by heightened stress, anxiety and mental fatigue. There are hormonal changes and other biochemical responses to stress that can aggravate the nervous system, and the immune response. The sleep disturbance that is often created by fibromyalgia symptoms increases fatigue which in turn increases one’s susceptibility to stress which in turn aggravates the fibromyalgia condition.

Meditation, Yoga, Pranayama, and studying of spiritual philosophy are all recommended for supporting personal healing and relaxation of the mind. Efforts should be made to increase the Sattvic quality of mind.

Yogasana: Various stretching exercises are known to have a positive effect on fibromyalgia. Regular practicing of sets of different postures are helpful in creating a healthy flexibility throughout the body. Yogic breathing practices will also create a state of restful alertness in mind and body. Progressive deep relaxation, i.e., shavasana (Corpse posture) brings about a relaxed state of mind which prepares the individual for meditation.

Lifestyle and Daily Routine

One of the most important factors for balancing Vata and maintaining stability in the nervous system is to have a lifestyle that does not disturb natural bodily rhythms. When we eat, sleep and exercise in constantly fluctuating and disturbing patterns, the body loses its natural balancing cycles. Therefore regularity in our daily routine can be extremely effective in reducing Vata imbalances.

Ayurvedic Herbs

• Decoction of the roots of ten herbs (Dashamularishtam) should be given in
• the dose of 30 ml., twice daily.
• Daily use of the Ayurvedic compound ‘Triphala choorna’ is recommended
• to cleanse the colon.
• Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water helps to reduce pain
• and inflammation in Fibromyalgia. Dosage: twice a day
• Garlic is useful for detoxification and to enhance immune system function.
• Guggul is a very helpful herb for relief of pain.
• Licorice root supports the glandular system and acts in the body like cortisone,
• but without the harmful side-effects. Caution: If overused, licorice can elevate
• blood pressure. Do not use this herb on a daily basis for more than seven
• days in a row. Avoid it if you have high blood pressure
• Ginger Tea. Ginger is a good alternative to aspirin to relieve minor aches and
• pains. Steep 1 teaspoon of the grated root in 8 ounces of hot water for 10 minutes.
• Strain. Add honey for taste, if you like. Alternatively, take 1 to 2 Grams of
• powdered ginger a day with food.

Generic preparations available in market such as Dashamularishtam, Triphala guggul, Maharasnadi Kwath, Vata Vidhwans Rasa etc. can be taken under the guidance of a ayurvedic physician.

Biodata of Dr.Shashikant Patwardhan:

Dr.Shashikant Patwardhan is practicing as ‘Ayurvedic Consultant’ for last 27 years at the city -Sangli , Maharashtra -India. He has done his graduation in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery [B.A.M&S] and post graduate Fellowship of Faculty of Ayurvedic Medicine [F.F.A.M.] From Tilak Ayurvedic college, Pune University, India. He is a chief editor and Ayurvedic Consultant of a Comprehensive website on Ayurveda: http://www.ayurveda-foryou.com. He is an author of many books on Ayurveda and is first to publish them in ebook format.He has written many ebooks like – Ayurvedic Cure of Diabetes, Losing weight with Ayurveda and Yoga, and Treat Common Diseases with Ayurveda & Yoga. He regularly writes articles on various topics in Ayurveda in Ayurvedic health magazines and alternative medicine sites.

Article reproduced from http://www.mercola.com/

Dr. Mercola’s Comment:

In the story below you’ll read how one woman, Gloria Reilley, who came to the Optimal Wellness Center, was able to overcome years of fibromyalgia-like pain, sinusitis, depression, panic attacks, fatigue, dizziness and weight gain by making the dietary and lifestyle changes that are described on this site and are included in-depth in my Total Health Cookbook and Program.

While the dramatic changes in health and renewed outlook on life this woman experienced may sound incredible, please realize that these types of results are not an exception but rather are the norm that people experience when they begin to implement the program.

If you are interested in learning more about my clinic, the largest natural health clinic in Illinois and one of the nation’s most respected, I encourage you to take the Optimal Wellness Center online tour now. Located just outside Chicago, our patients consist of a lot of people from the Midwest, but many of our patients also come from throughout the U.S. and across the globe. Click on the button below to learn more about the Optimal Wellness Center now.

If you cannot personally make it to the clinic and have not yet had a chance to read my new Total Health book, I highly encourage you to consider what it has to say, as it will give you a full understanding of my program, which is guaranteed to improve your health and weight.

In the book is a basic test to determine your metabolic type, which, as you’ll read in the story below, allows you to fit your diet to your individual biochemistry so that you feel satisfied and are truly nourished, along with over 150 delicious and healthy recipes for all the metabolic types.

If you are currently living in pain or do not feel as good as you would like, please use the story below as a bit of inspiration that you too can experience excellent health and a positive outlook by committing to nutritious foods and a natural, active lifestyle.

Contributed by Gloria Reilley
Villa Park, IL

For years I have suffered from fibromyalgia-like pain, chronic sinusitis, panic attacks, bouts of depression, fatigue, dizziness, yo-yo dieting and continued weight gain. These health issues were affecting all aspects of my life. Each day it was getting harder to walk without pain and then so many of my other health problems would come into play.

One morning after a sleepless night and not being able to turn over without pain, I thought ENOUGH, I’ve got to do something to get my health back. I had tried many different medications for these health problems but they just had not worked. My son had mentioned Dr. Mercola and the Optimal Wellness Center to me as someplace that I should think about going. He had first heard Dr. Mercola on the radio and had implemented many of his recommendations for his triplets who had a rough beginning, and for himself and his wife.

The triplets are so healthy now and my son and his wife are the picture of health and have incredible energy, which they definitely need with their active triplet daughters!

So I went on the Web site and read all about the center at the New Patient page and the people who were part of Dr. Mercola’s team. I decided this was for me. Their focus is on healthy living in the most natural way possible. I made my appointment and so my journey to health began.

My Journey to Health

I met with Dr. Plotkin, who explained the program to me and answered all my questions. Next I met with Jim Marlowe, a nutritionist who is awesome in his knowledge of nutrition and ability to interpret my metabolic type questionnaire, make my diet fit me personally and also help me understand the supplements I needed on the program and why I should take them. He gave me many tips to make it easier to follow my diet and is a great support in every way.

I also met with Kathy Foulser, who is an EFT practitioner, with much skepticism and was pleasantly surprised at how well EFT works for the stresses in my life. I also had a live cell test with Thomas. This was a real eye opener when you see your cells on slides and see the deplorable condition they are in.

All of these people have been an integral part of bringing me from sickness to health.

Dramatic Results in Less Than Five Weeks

I have been following the program since March 1, 2004 and have had dramatic results. I lost 16 pounds in just 4 1/2 weeks and continue to lose each week, and my fatigue has been replaced by great energy!! My fibromyalgia pain has diminished by 80 percent and the little arthritic nodes on the joints of my fingers are no longer red and painful and their size is diminishing!

I no longer have bouts of depression, dizziness or panic attacks, and the sinusitis I have suffered from for more years than I can remember is improving daily. It is great to be active again and to be able to really play with all those grandchildren of mine. I am also so much more clear-headed and in-focus in all my activities as well as my job.

I am much more aware of my emotional eating patterns and am now able to redirect my thoughts from food to an activity that is enjoyable to me such as exercise, cross stitch or reading. Staying on the program was not as difficult as I thought it would be.

My cravings were gone within 10 days and as my health returns and the weight comes off I am reinforced to stay on the program.

I juice greens before each meal and eat lots of vegetables and fruits that are included in the diet for my metabolic type as well as chicken and turkey. I am never hungry and my acid reflux has stopped. I no longer take tablets for that! I thought giving up grains and sugar–and especially coffee–would be my biggest challenge but that did not prove true. The nutrients I get from the juices and my diet, and of course the 12 glasses of water I drink, keep me full and satisfied.

I have found a new way of eating that I know will give me a long and healthy life.

My Body Heals Itself

My family of a wonderful husband, five children and their great spouses and 19 grandchildren have been a great support to me and are telling me how wonderful and youthful I’m looking. It’s been a long time since anyone has given me these types of compliments. I thank God always for my family.

I also go to South Africa for a month each year to teach preschool Zulu children and do ministry with the Zulu people. My last trip I was not myself and was so fatigued I was not sure I could go back again. Now with my health returning I am planning a trip this year!

Dr. Mercola talks about the benefits of the program, such as:

• Eliminating and preventing disease
• Reaching and maintaining your ideal weight
• Having increased energy
• Control over your health habits
• Positive emotions and outlook on life
• Improving self esteem, time and energy to focus on loved ones
• Attaining goals and dreams
• Living a longer and more enriching life
• As you can see by my story I am experiencing every one of these benefits and look forward to my future in a new and exciting way.

As my body heals itself on this healthy lifestyle, I believe there is nothing I cannot accomplish with the rest of my life.

I now want to join a hiking club and then who knows, the world is my oyster with this new health and energy. I praise God for directing my path to the Optimal Wellness Center and all the incredible people who are there to support you.

With warmest regards to all who read this,

Gloria Reilley

©Copyright 2004 Dr. Joseph Mercola. All Rights Reserved. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Mercola is required.

Article reproduced from http://www.mercola.com/

An exercise plan that includes strength training and aerobic activity may help women with the painful disorder fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition marked by widespread muscular and joint pain, as well as specific “tender” points that typically occur in the neck, spine, hips and shoulders. Other symptoms include sleep disturbances and fatigue, depression and irritable bowel syndrome. The condition is seen most often in women of reproductive age.

There is evidence that exercise can help alleviate symptoms. But most of this research has focused on aerobic exercise to boost cardiovascular conditioning, to the exclusion of strength training.

This is in part due to concerns that strength conditioning could exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms or cause injury.

Harvard researchers studied women who completed a 20-week exercise program showed that a mixture of aerobic activity and strength conditioning can in fact improve fibromyalgia symptoms.

The investigators had the women go through a progressive regimen that started with pool exercises to improve their joint movement, then moved on to walking and strengthening exercises with hand weights, machines and the body’s own resistance.

After 20 weeks, the women’s muscle strength and endurance improved overall — as did their symptoms of pain, stiffness, fatigue and depression, the researchers report.

These findings demonstrate that an exercise program that includes strength training activities can be safe, feasible, and beneficial for persons with fibromyalgia syndrome.

Arthritis Care and Research 2002;47:22-28

Dr. Mercola’s Comment:

Exercise is a key to good health for all of us. However, most people with fibromyalgia have so much muscle pain that they can not exercise.

Last year I spoke at the National Fibromyalgia Conference. I discussed the results my staff and I have been achieving with NST. I have never seen any single modality work so well for fibromyalgia. We have had excellent results with the therapy.

NST is one technique that can reduce the pain so a person can exercise.

More recently I have incorporated EFT which is enormously useful for addressing the emotional element which frequently accompanies fibromyalgia. For those interested in learning EFT you can review my EFT Resource Page.

©Copyright 2004 Dr. Joseph Mercola. All Rights Reserved. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Mercola is required.

Article reproduced from http://www.mercola.com/

Patients with fibromyalgia can boost their strength and improve certain parameters with weight-bearing exercise, researchers from Finland have demonstrated.

Women with fibromyalgia completed a 21-week strength training program and it was found to reduce their levels of depression and fatigue, but pain levels did not change.

• Researchers divided 21 women with fibromyalgia into two groups.
• Eleven women went through the strength training program and 10 received no special care.
• An additional 12 healthy women went through the weight training program as “control” subjects.

About 90% of people with fibromyalgia are women.

Currently, it is standard treatment to use light exercise or physical therapy, along with medication and psychological therapy, as part of a comprehensive plan for treating fibromyalgia. While no studies have found that exercise improves pain, it has been shown to help patients function better, improve mood, and reduce fatigue.

Annals of Rheumatic Disease 2001; 60: 21-26

Dr. Mercola’s Comment:

Exercise is a key to good health for all of us. However, most people with fibromyalgia have so much muscle pain that they can not exercise.

In a few months I will be speaking at the National Fibromyalgia Conference. I plan on discussing the results my staff and I have been achieving with NST. I have never seen any single modality work so well for fibromyalgia. We have not had 100% improvement, but it is very close.

©Copyright 2004 Dr. Joseph Mercola. All Rights Reserved. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Mercola is required.

Article reproduced from http://www.mercola.com/

Acupuncture helped relieve symptoms such as pain and depression in women with the chronic pain disorder fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes muscle pain, stiffness and fatigue for unknown reasons. It affects about 2% of Americans, mainly women.

In the study, the researchers randomly assigned 60 women who suffered from fibromyalgia into three groups. All patients received amitriptyline, a standard pain modifier used for fibromyalgia, at bedtime for 16 weeks.

In addition, 20 of the women received a once-a-week, 30-minute acupuncture session while a second group of 20 underwent a once-a-week, 30-minute sham-acupuncture session where they were punctured in areas not believed to have any effect on pain.

The patients were evaluated every month for pain, depression and quality of life measures by healthcare workers who were unaware which treatment they were receiving.

The researchers reported that patients who received the real acupuncture were the only ones who showed statistically significant improvement on measures of pain, depression and mental health after the first month.

The results lasted for up to 16 weeks, at which time the patients began regressing slightly and would need reinforcement acupuncture sessions, Feldman said. “It’s not a one-time treatment.

Annual Meeting of the American College of Rheumatology San Francisco November 12, 2001

Dr. Mercola’s Comment:

In my experience fibromyalgia is nearly always related to some severe emotional trauma that establishes a series of potentially devastating physical processes, which frequently incapacitate the person.

I am not surprised that acupuncture seems to work for it. It is certainly better than the traditional approaches. I am also not surprised that it did not provide long-term benefit.

I have seen far more effective results with NST. More recently EFT, which is acupuncture for psychological issues, has been amazingly effective in providing permanent relief from these problems.

In the November 17 workshop on EFT that I taught I did a demonstration with a woman who had fibromyalgia in her hips that was quite severe, and which prevented her from sitting without pain for three years. The pain was so severe she had beenunable to visit her family for the last several years as she was unable to tolerate the plane ride.

She had not received any benefit from acupuncture. Yet within several minutes the EFT was able to completely and permanently eliminate her pain. It was quite an amazing demonstration as most of her pain was related to the sadness of not seeing her family, the stress and trauma of the accident that caused the pain, and her need to forgive the driver of the truck that hit her.

As the Chinese say, seeing is believing and you can now witness the treatment yourself by obtaining the videos. If you feel that the videos are not useful you can return them for a refund.

EFT is not a “magic bullet.” One clearly needs to follow a good eating plan and get proper exercise and rest. However it is hard to imagine this combination not helping nearly everyone with fibromyalgia.

©Copyright 2004 Dr. Joseph Mercola. All Rights Reserved. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Mercola is required.