There are a number of deficiencies that have been identified in Fibromyalgia, most notably Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs), vitamin D, magnesium, calcium and some of the B-vitamins.    It is so important that you talk to your GP or Consultant about having blood tests as soon as possible.  

 

Too much omega 6 from a diet high in refined and processed foods, for example, encourages inflammation in the body, whereas omega 3 helps combat inflammation.  So it’s very important to reduce – but not eliminate – omega 6 and increase your omega 3 intake.  These EFAs are essential for a huge range of body processes, including muscle maintenance, the transport of oxygen around the body, the nerves, hormone regulation, kidney function, the immune system, and to maintain a healthy heart, brain, joints, skin, hair and nails. 

 

Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body and plays a vital role, in particular for digestion, muscle function and relaxation, bone formation, and the proper functioning of the heart, brain, nervous system, kidney and adrenals.  Leg cramps or muscle twitches are often the first signs of a deficiency, but other very common symptoms are insomnia, migraine headaches, low energy levels, hormonal imbalances including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), anxiousness and irritability.  Magnesium also helps with the absorption of calcium.  A long-term deficiency can lead to chronic fatigue.

 

Calcium is most widely known for building and maintaining healthy, strong teeth, gums and bones.  Some of the body’s calcium however is found in tissues, muscles, cells and blood and is considered one of the most important minerals to help grow and maintain the human body. 

 

Calcium, when stored in muscle tissue, plays a vital role in muscular contraction and relaxation.  It is also needed for other functions including regulating the cardiovascular and nervous systems, playing a crucial role in the transmission of nerve impulses.  Furthermore it can help relieve symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).

 

If there is not enough calcium consumed through diet it will draw upon calcium stored in the bones.  It is very easy therefore to become deficient in calcium, especially with age.  During childhood and early adulthood (up to about 30 years old) calcium is absorbed and stored in the bones, but after this age the rate of absorption decreases dramatically.

 

Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin as one of the ways in which it is created is when the body is exposed to sunlight.  It’s crucial for helping the body absorb and use the calcium and phosphorus from food.  

 

Research is starting to show a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and the development of Fibromyalgia.  A deficiency is quite common amongst Fibro patients and results in muscular pain and weakness.  It can also cause depression, insomnia, chronic fatigue, seasonal affective disorder, PMS mood changes, impaired vision, diarrhoea and weight loss. 

 

There are several excellent supplements containing calcium, magnesium and vitamin D but please take note that rectifying a deficiency of these can actually take several months rather than weeks.