Fibromyalgia and the AIP Diet
Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes chronic pain and sensitivity in the muscles and tissues of the body. This condition is more common in women than men and comes with distressing symptoms, such as pain in the so-called tender points and extreme fatigue. In this blog, we will explore the symptoms of fibromyalgia and discuss how the Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) diet might potentially help with fibromyalgia.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition, the exact cause of which is not fully understood. However, it is considered a neurological disorder, where the central nervous system is overactive, leading to the overactive occurrence of pain signals. As these pain signals are perceived uniquely by each person, the symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary from person to person.
Chronic Pain
The first symptom of fibromyalgia is chronic pain. It is often described as a nagging pain that feels ever-present to many individuals. Moreover, this pain is often uncontrollable, causing those with fibromyalgia to experience unwanted pain at inconvenient times. The most common areas of pain in people with fibromyalgia are the hips, lower back, shoulder blades, knees, or neck.
Severe Fatigue
A second symptom that many people with fibromyalgia experience is fatigue. This may be accompanied by sleep problems or the feeling of being tired and exhausted even after a good night's rest. Naturally, this impedes daily functioning and can also lead to mental issues such as forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating. Remembering tasks or studying can become arduous instead of being everyday activities.
Mental Issues
The third symptom that individuals with fibromyalgia may face is feelings of hopelessness and isolation. There are times when you might feel that your body is letting you down, which makes it essential to build a strong social circle or connect with others who share similar experiences so that you can talk to people who will listen to your feelings and understand what you are going through.
The difference between rheumatism and fibromyalgia
Rheumatism and fibromyalgia are often mentioned together, but they are two different conditions, even though both can cause pain and discomfort in the body. Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic pain and sensitivity in the muscles, joints, and connective tissues of the body. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is considered a neurological disorder, partially determined by genetics. On the other hand, rheumatism (rheumatoid arthritis) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues in the body, leading to inflammation in the joints and other parts of the body. While both fibromyalgia and rheumatism cause pain and discomfort, their causes and symptoms differ.
Is fibromyalgia an autoimmune disease?
Currently, fibromyalgia is not considered an autoimmune disease. However, more research is being conducted on this matter because many individuals with fibromyalgia exhibit symptoms that are consistent with an autoimmune condition. It is also common for people with fibromyalgia to have other autoimmune diseases or experience symptoms resembling those of other autoimmune disorders.
Impact of the AIP Diet on fibromyalgia
The AIP diet could potentially help with fibromyalgia because the diet aims to treat autoimmune symptoms, such as stiffness, aching muscles and joints and fatigue. The AIP diet addresses this by avoiding foods that may worsen possible symptoms. Would you like recipes with inflammation-reducing properties? Then order the Meal Plan E-book here! Although fibromyalgia is not classified as an autoimmune disease, with this condition you might experience symptoms associated with such diseases. Through nutrition, we can reduce your inflammatory levels and thus potentially reduce your symptoms. As Hippocrates would say, let nutrition once again be the medicine it once was. Read more about the father of the AIP diet here, read further on the website.
The Circle of AIP is more than just good nutrition
It is essential to consider that the AIP circle encompasses more than just the diet. It also involves lifestyle and rest. Within the AIP circle, it is often recommended to connect with nature, particularly the forest. The air in the forest contains plant particles that have a positive effect on the human body. Regarding sleep, it is important to reduce screen time in the evening and avoid eating too much before bedtime. Additionally, it is crucial to exercise sufficiently within the limits of one's body. Read more about the importance of exercise within the AIP Circle. For more information on the certain foods you can/can’t eat and recipes, take a look at this page
