Dear Fibromyalgia

Author: dearfibromyalgia

Is There One Best Diet For Fibromyalgia?
Are you confused about the best diet for fibromyalgia?

I do believe that the best fibromyalgia diet addresses inflammation, toxicity and nutrient absorption. You see, It is not really about one particular diet. It is more about adhering to some basic dietary principles.

There are many resources about “best diet for fibromyalgia” and yet, as a gut health expert, working in holistic health and nutrition, and as a colon therapist, what I have done is to really narrow in on what works for most people to decrease symptoms and pain levels through effective fibromyalgia nutrition.

Fibromyalgia is complex so it is more about creating a stronger foundation and greater resilience.

You may read that lectins in grains and some fruits are causing much disease in our world today, and that is true, yet there are ways to salvage many of these suspect foods in ways you have never heard of before.

Adopting a gluten free or lower grain plan is a great place to start for your best diet for fibromyalgia.

Whether one has gluten sensitivity or any digestive disease (not just celiac) removing gluten is helpful but it doesn’t have to be 100% for many. We use fermented grains in some of our recipes.

Gluten from the wheat protein can be a perpetuating factor in many diseases, from a leaky gut to osteoporosis to fibromyalgia. However, never try to eliminate foods too quickly (unless there is a severe digestive illness) because this can cause undue stress on the fibro body and can even perpetuate symptoms.

There is much drama and controversy out there regarding gluten. I will tell you this, not everyone will need to avoid gluten 100%.

However, if you have celiac or auto immune thyroid disease or any digestive illness such as colitis or diverticulitis, then it will be imperative to avoid not only gluten, but corn starch, rice flour, additives, and other allergens.

Rice flour is not a better choice as it is higher glycemic and hard to digest.

It is not only the hard to digest grain, but the glyphosate and other chemicals that are added to wheat crops that are contributing to chronic pain, digestive disease, auto immune conditions, and cancer.

Many people play around with gluten because it is hard to eliminate and very addictive. Part of my point is … do not beat yourself up if you have a difficult time removing gluten. Get additional help if needed. This is a big undertaking for many people who have lived on gluten their entire lives.

As a colon therapist, I work very closely with people and their digestion, closer than doctors or other health care workers and I also see much controversy and mistruth which can sometimes lead to sabotage and people feeling like they cannot attain a certain diet.

What we have to ask ourselves is “what is our reason for reducing grains in the first place?” It is to retain more nutrients and reduce symptoms like inflammation. So going gluten free is good, but it must be done the right way.

How can we reduce our exposure to lectins?

On the journey of going gluten free, and reducing lectins, we can also go another step and address all or most grains. Grains are acid forming and often create more toxicity and deficiency in the body through the very process of digestion. (Although sprouting grains is an exception)

By working to eliminate more gluten and even more of the packaged gluten free foods, we are supporting our bodies and minds by absorbing MORE nutrients and reducing fibromyalgia symptoms such as brain fog that are often perpetuated by these foods and additives.

By the way, rice flour should be right up there with gluten. Too many gluten free products contain rice flour, this is high glycemic and hard to digest. However, having some whole grain rice once in awhile is fine, soak it, cook it, and that is better than rice flour, just on occasion.

Osteoporosis has become a great issue these days as the body attempts to steal nutrients from the skeletal system to simply process and digest grain foods. Osteo issues are also a great concern within fibromyalgia. The very best diet for fibromyalgia is a whole foods based diet – nature’s diet.

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Best Diet for Fibromyalgia Relies On Whole Foods

The focus of this page is the best diet for fibromyalgia; however, it works for other health issues as well. For instance, the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center published an article in May 2012, “Do Nutritional Supplements Help Prevent Cancer?” (Click on the link to read).

On page 2 under “Nutrients in foods“, the article recommends essentially the same approach to whole foods that I advocate here on my website. Overall, I liked the article; but, like many articles on diet, the focus is quite narrow.

In this case it’s cancer as you would expect. My focus on this website differs from their’s. My focus is not only fibromyalgia and whole foods, it’s the whole you. Let me show you what I mean.

The article states that whole foods are more beneficial than vitamin supplements because whole foods contain many nutrients that work synergistically to protect against cancer. They go on to say that salmon is superior to salmon oil supplements because it provides vitamins D and B, amino acids, calcium, and selenium in addition to the fatty acids. Now, here’s where we differ.

Although what they say is technically true, it is not realistic if we focus on the Whole You. No one I know would be willing to eat salmon every day or on any schedule that would provide the fatty acids and other nutrients mentioned in the amounts required. Also, some folks just can’t tolerate the taste of salmon.

That is why I take into consideration the whole you in my best diet for fibromyalgia on this page and also provide my recommendations for supplements on my Fibromyalgia Supplements page. Sure, I focus on fibro with my “best diet for fibromyalgia”, but I realize we all differ in our lifestyles in terms of the size of family, pace of life, ability to pay and other factors.

I try to provide enough flexibility that you can find a path to success. In reading the article perhaps you can be reassured that my “best diet for fibromyalgia” has synergistic benefits to other health issues as well even though I don’t talk about them here.

ACID / ALKALINE BALANCE

In seeking the best diet for fibromyalgia we must remember that when we awake in the morning, our bodies are in a more acidic state. With any chronic illness, we are striving for balance. In this case, we are focusing on the balance of acid and alkalinity. We want to avoid extremes to better support digestion and metabolism. A certain amount of acidity is needed to properly digest food as well a good amount of alkalinity will support metabolism and the musculoskeletal system.

In the article called “Nutrition Tips” we talk about the importance of an alkaline breakfast also free of excess sugars and grains. This will help balance that first-morning acidity.

The body is always striving for balance. It is possible to be overly acidic or overly alkaline. Yet it can be confusing as to how to support this balance that we want. Staying close to nature in diet and lifestyle is the best way to attain balance in health and well-being.

When we select the best diet for fibromyalgia it must be abundant in whole foods. Then, we are automatically supporting balance because these foods are in their natural unadulterated state. This is the basis of the best diet for fibromyalgia.

A healthy fibromyalgia diet can be attained whether one is vegetarian or meat eater. When eating vegan, be sure that whole foods, raw fats and oils, and sprouted beans, nuts and seeds and fruits are the primary foods relied upon. Avoid excess eating of grains, gluten-free or otherwise.

Strive for upwards to 80% grain-free. That way, you can have your rice or gluten free pasta on occasion if desired.

By the way, below is an excellent grain free, low calorie option to pasta. Have you tried Palmini? It is a great alternative to pasta. Easy to use. Excellent for keto or paleo plans.

What about nightshades and proteins?

When eating animal protein, choose smaller portions of meat and balance with greens, raw and/or cooked vegetables. If you are a type “O” like me, then you likely thrive on a meat/vegetable/fruit diet with additions of sprouted beans, nuts and seeds as well.

We are the hunter/gatherer and our bodies are built for optimal digestion of animal protein. Type A will do better as a vegan. Other blood types vary as well.

What about potatoes? Let me say that when we avoid the russet potatoes, we are not just stuck with sweet potatoes, I find that you can also utilize organic red potatoes on occasion and many do fine.

Organic potatoes not only taste better, but we want to avoid common pesticides and herbicides. I also add some yukon, sweet and purple potatoes on occasion for variety. Note however, that sweet potatoes are not well combined with animal protein. Below we made a delicious organic red potato salad with coconut vinegar and spices.

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Soaking, Sprouting, Germinating… The process of live nutrition!

Cooked beans are not recommended as they are high in starch and therefore HIGH GLYCEMIC. Shown are Mung Beans, both in their original state and their “soaked and sprouted” state.
After soaking, their “jackets” are easily removed. This removes the enzyme inhibitor thereby aiding digestion and assimilation of raw nutrients.

For grains, beans, nuts, and seeds, remember that first soaking and sprouting (at least soaking) removes the enzyme inhibitor, allows for better digestion and retention of minerals, and reduces the acid effects. When grains, nuts, seeds are not soaked, they deplete minerals through the process of digestion.

You can also purchase packaged, sprouted items. I’m including the following link to one such item for your convenience Go Raw’s Organic, Sprouted Watermelon Seeds. You can also find Go Raw’s pumpkin and a seed mix on Amazon.

For optimal digestion and health benefit, soak raw almonds in pure water about 6-8 hours. Jackets will release easily as well and this effectively removes the enzyme inhibitor. (Even the garbage disposal doesn’t like the almond jackets, so that should tell you something!!)
- The most alkaline of all raw nuts ..
- Germination is the key to ‘unlocking‘ and retaining precious nutrients.
- ‘Nuttin’ better…
We Need Our Raw Fats – Don’t Dissect Your Eggs

Dairy products are acid forming. Avoid low fat dairy as this contributes to osteo issues, as without the natural dairy fat, we cannot absorb any calcium anyway. Choose organic greens, vegetable juices and blended raw foods for easy to assimilate calcium and minerals.

When eating eggs, always ingest whole eggs, not egg whites alone. Egg whites are VERY acid-forming, and the egg yolk is one of nature’s finest fats, rich in biotin, choline and other minerals. It is comparable to mothers milk. It is the egg white that is hardest to digest.

Yes, for most people with egg allergy, it’s the white, not the yolk. I like to say …”Eat your yolks, folks“. Again, nature does not want us dissecting our food; this creates imbalance.

Use the best organic and/or pastured eggs whenever possible.

Many bodybuilders/dieters, etc. go to extremes to reduce fat, only to later on have thyroid/adrenal issues due to extreme dieting and ingestion of proteins that are sometimes foreign to the body.

RAW fats burn fat hence the obesity epidemic from low fat eating. Choose best quality in meats, eggs, etc. Free range is best as well as grass fed when you can obtain it.

Avocadoes

Avocadoes, the healthy raw fat of champions everywhere!!
We use them in blender drinks, raw dishes and even great for breakfast.

Healthy raw fats are a great way to control cravings for sugars and excess carbohydrates . Also, use Avocado Oil for cooking, salad dressing, homemade mayo., etc.

You can substitute Coconut Oil depending on price and taste. It can be used for for food preparation as well as hair and skin care. Although I do see more coconut allergies these days, so be sure it is not an allergen for you.

Fermented and Cultured Foods and Drinks

Yes, fermented or cultured foods/drinks can be acid-forming. However this again supports balance and when eaten in combination with greens and other alkaline foods they are truly valuable, whether it is cultured vegetables, kefir, kombucha, etc. Also, take better control of cravings with cultured vegetables.

For over 15 years I have been experimenting with different variations. I use the Body Ecology starter and add extra Plantarum which is a more beneficial healthy bacteria for the large intestine.

We can all benefit from cultured vegetables, especially good for those with any GI issues, IBS, recovery from celiac, etc.

Remember that cabbage is best fermented for thyroid issues. It will cause problems only when eaten raw in some individuals. In my basic recipe I use organic cabbage, carrot, ginger and garlic, cultures and extra plantarum.

This feeds our beneficial bacteria, controls infections, increases immunity and reduces cravings for sugar.

Organic Winter Squash ..My favorites are spaghetti squash and delicata.
A great alternative to grains and so much variety ..

In order to increase metabolism, reduce overall symptoms and support well-being in chronic illness, we must work to CREATE balance. This is the necessary goal of the best diet for fibromyalgia.

We get out what we put in! Whatever plan works best for YOUR body and blood type, be sure to make it count. Be consistent. There are many flawed studies on why one food plan is better than another. Check out my Food Planner And Nutrition Tips by clicking on the link below.

Preparing food at home becomes essential if we are to control what truly goes in our bodies. Creating non allergen recipes may take some time, effort and trial and error yet the rewards are great. Refer to my suggestions and resources at these links: Gluten Free Recipes; Blending and Juicing; Fibro Kitchen Tools.

Other related articles in our site/ Dietary principles for Fibromyalgia

So, you see there’s not one best diet for fibromyalgia. It depends on your situation and especially any co-conditions. You can find additional details on specific versions of my Best Diet For Fibromyalgia that have been tailored for several conditions that often accompany fibromyalgia.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store
01/03/2021
Fibromyalgia and Anxiety Symptoms Can Result From Our Environment

On our “mind-body science” page we explain that fibromyalgia and anxiety symptoms naturally coexist because of the human pain response reflex; however, there is another very common source of fibromyalgia related anxiety symptoms that is overlooked by many doctors.

When we are living with fibromyalgia, we tend to be highly sensitive and vulnerable to the world around us. When we have a condition such as fibromyalgia that exhibits multiple symptoms, it can be too easy for doctors to write it off as psychologically induced anxiety symptoms.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is one of the primary co-conditions to fibromyalgia. Also referred to as Toxic Encephalopathy. This basically means that the body has a more difficult time neutralizing and detoxing chemicals and other toxins from the body. Do you notice an increase of symptoms when you are exposed to perfume, cologne, laundry detergent or any other synthetic fragrance?

It can be a challenging symptom because the main way to prevent symptoms is through avoidance. It is imperative to get family members on board. It is essential to avoid exacerbating symptoms from exposure to colognes, detergents or any toxins that we come into close proximity with on a daily basis.

Fibromyalgia has also been linked with dysautonomia, due to the effects on the autonomic nervous system. Anxiety symptoms could actually be the autonomic nervous system reacting to a variety of environmental toxins or stimulants. This in turn affects heart rate, digestion, blood pressure, and even the ability of the body to control temperature.

What outwardly exhibits itself as “anxiety” is often a sensitivity or intolerance to stimulants, irritants and/or toxins in our environment. This also keeps the adrenals and the fight or flight reflex in constant motion therefore exhibiting what we refer to as “adrenaline dominance”, an additional facet of fibromyalgia and anxiety symptoms.

Your Fibromyalgia and Anxiety Symptoms
May Be A Toxic Reaction

Fibromyalgia and Anxiety Symptoms

Stimulants come in many forms and are not always viewed as negative, at least not in the moment. There are many non-chemical forms of stress as well. Are you sensitive to noise and sounds such as the doorbell or a phone ringing?

Maybe you have people shooting off random fireworks in your neighborhood?

Once the nervous system is stimulated in the fibro body, it can have a difficult time regulating back down. The noise might be long over, but your system is still reeling with this “adrenaline dominance” facet of

fibromyalgia and anxiety symptoms.

“how many doctors are treating anxiety disorders that are actually rooted in environmental toxins?”

Have you ever gone to a shopping mall where many toxins are circulating from new materials off-gassing or fragrances wafting out from stores and wondered why you start to feel bad so quickly? Does your body become weak in a situation like that? Do you then have anxiety type reactions even though emotionally you are fine? That is where the symptoms exhibited are not often accurately correlated; that is the “adrenaline dominance” side of fibromyalgia and anxiety symptoms. Even exposure to EMF’s from wireless phones and computers or your home cable company wifi can cause anxiety type symptoms in the vulnerable fibro body.

For instance, how many doctors are treating “anxiety symptoms” that are actually rooted within environmental stimulants, toxins and adrenaline dominance? How many people are becoming dependent on medications for anxiety but still suffering due to constant exposures they may not connect to their environment?

Even talcum powder (which I have always been intolerant to) has recently come under fire for being a very dangerous carcinogen, linked to cancer, especially ovarian cancer. Many beauty products are hazardous to our health, from hairsprays to makeup. I never needed a “study” or research to know it was toxic, my body knew all along.

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Another issue with excess environmental toxins and stimuli is that they can greatly contribute to brain fog. If a person with fibromyalgia is exposed to laundry toxins, cleaning chemicals, petro fumes, formaldehyde, electrical frequencies, etc., we can’t expect them to think clearly! The brain is too busy merely trying to survive.

Neurotoxicity Symptoms

As previously mentioned, brain fog can easily be exacerbated by everyday toxins in our environment. There is a direct connection between fibromyalgia and toxins in our environment. Remember, that many of the man made chemicals and toxic agents are fairly new to us, they were not around 100 years ago like they are today.

One of my greatest offenders continues to be laundry products. I have used natural laundry products since a young age. Even if you do not have an immediate reaction like I do, what if the continual onslaught of exposures is accelerating your fibro pain?

Neurological symptoms related to environmental illness within fibromyalgia include brain fog, memory loss (especially short term), increased pain in the head and face, sinus pain, vision disturbances, extreme sensitivity to light, nerve pain, burning in the back of the head and activation of trigger points around the head, leading to radiating pain and migraine headaches.

Over Stimulation Leads To Weakness

So when we are continually overstimulated by our environment, this can lead to weakness in the body. Much like over working the adrenal glands. At some point, they get exhausted from all of the working overtime they have to do. So excess stimulation leads to weakness in an already vulnerable fibro body. Not a good combination, right?

A common area of weakness and pain when exposed can occur around the entire upper body, head, neck, shoulders and the pectoralis muscles in the outer chest area. These environmental stress reactions can cause severe tightness which can in turn increase pain. Arms, legs and extremities can become weak due to over stimulation.

Let me give a recent example where an “innocent” exposure (at least innocent to others) caused me to have “fibromyalgia and anxiety symptoms” that had nothing to do with true anxiety.

I was getting a massage at my regular massage therapy place and within about 5-10 minutes of being on the table, my heart started racing and I felt nauseous and shaky. I knew something wasn’t right. The touch and everything else was the same. In fact, the massage itself felt really good as it usually does.

What I found out from speaking with the staff, was that they had recently started using fabric softener to make the sheets on the table less wrinkled. (This is the reason I have often brought my own sheets to massage therapy, but this place was always an exception UNTIL they changed their laundering habits.) I was a little disheartened knowing I would again have to bring my sheets AND that this one experience was not the relaxing one that I often look forward to.

So, my point is that many people would think that the heart palpitations, nausea, migraine, and increased pain and weakness are merely due to their condition; yet, the instigator of these symptoms in a flash moment such as this were actually produced from toxins in the laundry chemicals coming into close proximity of our bodies.

We cannot control every environment, yet we can exert greater control over the places that we spend more of our time. This really is essential when living with the complexities of fibromyalgia and anxiety symptoms that will only exacerbate our symptoms.

What about breathing with MCS?

When we are often exposed to toxins and fragrances that make us feel sick or give us headaches, it is only natural to develop a habit of holding our breath. Of course this is the last thing we want to do. So what I find helpful is to use a face mask (I like and recommend a face mask from I Can breathe but any will do) and close the mouth and then do some deep breathing through the nose while wearing the face mask.

You can even close one nostril at a time and breathe in and out through the other nostril. This will calm the body and the adrenal glands. Mouth breathing increases anxiety whereas nostril breathing reduces anxiety.

Fireworks: not just noise pollution

Have you noticed that more people seem to be shooting off random fireworks?
This has become a form of noise pollution that affects those with fibromyalgia, PTSD, animals, and those with sensitive nervous systems. However, it also affects the air quality. And with fibromyalgia, we are vulnerable to both noise and air quality.

There are chemicals in these fireworks that saturate the air for hours. You might need to avoid being directly around them for both reasons. We all love to celebrate, but we also need to have consideration, so that we can be better prepared for them.

Suggested supplements for immune status

Supplements to support immune health would include :
~Beta Glucan
~Olive Leaf
~Vitamin D emulsion
~Keto-7 DHEA
~Selenium
~Zinc

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

01/03/2021
Endocrine Disruptors – Chronic Awareness

We are constantly surrounded by Endocrine Disruptors in the environment today. Endocrine Disruptors are toxic substances in our food, environment AND home and body products that adversely affect our liver, thyroid, adrenals, and every organ of the body. ED’s also create a disturbance in the fibro body’s ability to properly cleanse and regenerate.

The problem is that all of this disruption creates imbalance especially when living with a chronic illness. These disruptors can greatly exacerbate symptoms and chronic pain.

Start with water

Let’s start with water, but not just any water. I am talking about tap water. Unfortunately, there are many contaminants in tap water. Some of the most common include flouride waste, and chlorine. But there are many other waste contaminants that can really disrupt our endocrine system. For instance, our thyroid is so vulnerable to toxins, and the first way that we can support our thyroid and proper hormone production is by using water filters for both drinking and showering. I recommend the shower water filter shown below from Amazon. Click on the image or the text link if you want to check it out.

Shower Water Filter Multi-Stage Shower Filter For Hard Water Removes Chlorine Fluoride and Harmful Substances – Showerhead Filter High Output Prevents Hair and Skin Dryness by Torti Lia

How Do We Protect Ourselves From Endocrine Disruptors?

First, we need to realize that companies who are supplying many of these substances in the form of body products, fragrances, etc. are not subject to regulations due to the ‘trade secrets’ encompassing many of the ingredients.
They are not obligated to list the array of chemicals that are affecting our well-being every day.

Therefore, we must be even more diligent about knowing what substances are harmful to our fibro bodies. Synthetic fragrances in body products and scented laundry soaps are especially harmful because we are in such close proximity and breathing in these toxic substances on a daily and constant basis.

These toxic endocrine disruptors are so harmful because they can contribute to fatigue in the adrenals, lower thyroid hormone levels, dysfunction in the liver, deregulation of hormones and a compromised immune system. Living with any chronic illness, we cannot afford that extra burden.

It is best to buy scent free and dye free laundry soap or make your own. The same with every product used on our bodies.
These products are taken in and absorbed by our skin on a constant basis and these chemicals go directly to our bloodstream and cells. The THYROID and ADRENALS are especially vulnerable. Especially as we age with a chronic illness.

We must not take short cuts. It may seem daunting to think about changing home and body products IF you are still using conventional products, but it is truly the first step to creating a safe haven for our sensitive fibro bodies!!
I have lived chemical and fragrance free since a very young age, so I know it can be done. But, family members MUST be ‘on board’ with keeping a safe haven as well.

Here’s an easy place to start …replace all of your regular conventional scented hand soap from dispensers in bathrooms and kitchens with a nontoxic soap like that from Miracle II brand.
Because it is concentrated, one bottle of Miracle II soap will last up to six months.

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The ingredient list of the Miracle II brand body moisturizer (shown here) simply consists of almond oil, coconut oil, apricot oil and vitamin E.
It is absolutely the best feeling non-toxic lotion I have ever put on my body.

A short ingredient list will always be best.

Keep the dispensers …just replace the soap itself ..Miracle II liquid soap has many non-toxic uses from car washing to bathing the dog and washing dishes.

What are you sleeping on?

More people today are concerned about the food and drinks they put into their bodies every day. But what about the materials you are sleeping on? The mattress and bedding that you sleep on can be subject to everything from pesticides to highly toxic substances like formaldehyde. These are highly toxic to your liver, thyroid, adrenals and your brain.

And, the problem is that you are in such close proximity to these potentially toxic substances at the very time that your body is in great need of regeneration. Most mattresses are required to have flame retardants in them, however these flame retardants are highly toxic. After researching more on the subject, I found a company that uses wool as a natural flame retardant.

What About Plastics?

And what about plastics? Plastics in our environment, such as food containers and the like are even more harmful if subjected to heat. They should never be heated in a microwave, regular oven or left in a warm car.

If traveling with water from home, it is best to use glass containers if they will be left in a car or warm area. Many containers and plastics on the market are now BPA free, yet there is more to the story, as that is not the only endocrine disruptor we need to avoid. Don’t let good marketing tactics deceive you.

Like many endocrine disruptors, BPA, has been linked to early puberty and cancer. Meaning that plastics can actually mimic estrogens that contribute to hormone deregulation in kids and adults alike, male and female.

In 2011, the American Medical Association labeled BPA an “endocrine disruptors agent”. Research has established that bisphenol A , BPA, is carried in the bodies of more than 90% of Americans. And now, multiple recent studies have found this “endocrine disruptor” in fetal tissue. According to the Breast Cancer Fund, a developing fetus is most susceptible during the first 11-weeks of pregnancy. And, a very recent paper from a researcher at Tufts University reported that BPA increased the risk of mammary cancer in rats.

Since BPA was originally developed as estrogen–replacement therapy, it is suspected that prenatal BPA exposure may make fetuses more sensitive to estrogen. Estrogen is the hormone that powers the growth of most breast cancers.

Like many endocrine disruptors in our environment, BPA is part of a complex “push-pull” of safety concerns. As I said, the AMA says it’s an endocrine disruptor; the American Chemistry Council points out that BPA extends the safe shelf life of food products and protects against contamination and spoilage. Industry groups continue to state that BPA does not represent a risk to humans at any stage of development.

Where is the FDA on this issue? On both sides. After reviewing hundreds of BPA studies, the FDA issued a statement saying that BPA is “safe at the very low levels found in some foods”. Then in 2012, they banned the use of BPA in baby bottles, and expressed “concern” about the potential effect on children, both pre and post birth.

How do you feel knowing that companies do not have to list carcinogenic substances in packaging ? They do not, and yet BPA which is used to line metal cans and BPH on the inside of cereal bags is often filled with it..

Do you ever wonder about the number on the bottom of your plastic container? #7 may contain BPA, #3 may contain phthalates. Plastics with codes # 1, 2 and 5 are safer in general.

GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND

Yes, there are companies who are working to make healthier products, yet there is still much ground to cover, so we must be taking individual responsibility.

Protect yourself and your ability to attain greater levels of healing by avoiding and not supporting products or companies that are harmful to YOUR body and your environment.

Again, be sure to remember that the words ‘endocrine disruptor’ never appear on a label so we are best to avoid if in doubt. Use only natural products with a short ingredient list, natural oils, and natural cleaning agents found in any kitchen etc.

Fragrances are often included in many body and home products. The problem is that most of these are synthetic ingredients and chemicals, including phthalates.

Sodium laurel/laurel sulfate is is a surfactant that is often contaminated with a carcinogenic substance, 1,4 dioxane.

A few of my favorite companies producing non-toxic products include Clearly Natural, Swanson and Miracle II brand soap and moisturizing lotion. In fact, Swanson now carries non toxic soaps and laundry detergents (shown here) that only use a coconut based surfactant.

I recommend and use only the most natural products. From scent free laundry soap to the Miracle II line of soap and lotion. Nothing has more than 4-5 natural ingredients.

Avoiding endocrine disruptors is essential and the good thing is that we also save money at the same time… that is essential as well when ‘living smarter’ so that we can put our money into supporting our wellness, NOT our illness.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

01/03/2021
Chemical Sensitivity to Our Toxic Environment Worsens Fibromyalgia Symptoms
After suffering since the young age of 9 with hyper-chemical sensitivity to environmental toxins, I do believe that I and others with (MCS) Multiple Chemical Sensitivity are like “toxin detectives“.

For instance, during outdoor activities or simply outside in my own yard, I sometimes have to ‘change course’ because the exposure to dryer sheet toxins or synthetic laundry fragrances wafting from a neighbors laundry vents can make me ill.

And because I also have severe fibromyalgia, I’m 100% convinced of the correlation between toxin exposure and worsening fibro symptoms. The important point to understand is that MCS people react to toxic substances, and these toxins to which we do react are also unhealthy for non MCS people….and, I believe, especially for those suffering from fibro. Consider two known facts:
- Fibromyalgia onset is fairly often preceded by a trauma to the body.
- Fibro flares are often triggered by “soft” traumas such as bright lights, loud noise, crowds, weather change, etc.
Doesn’t it follow that we shouldn’t be surprised when environmental toxins constantly trigger our fibro symptoms?

I believe this is true for fibro victims who cannot consciously detect these toxins or become overtly ill as I do because of my MCS.

So, the third component of my protocol is Environmental Toxins.

Chemical Sensitivity and the Toxic Load Effect

A toxic environment is a huge factor in both the development and worsening of all fibromyalgia symptoms. An essential key to living smarter with fibromyalgia is working to create a safe environment. This means the home that we live in, the office we work in and everything we put on our bodies. Remember that companies and products that cater to making your home or body look or smell nicer are NOT catering to YOUR good health. No, in fact they are doing great harm by including such toxic chemicals, fragrances and synthetics.

We all have some degree of chemical sensitivity but most people don’t even notice it. Some even think the smell of laundry detergent on their clothes is nice. Whereas, in my case that is one of the worst offenders. And think about the great number of toxins we face every day. I can usually handle a single exposure; but, multiple exposures can cause me to have lingering symptoms for days. What I’m saying is that there is a toxic load effect, a threshold above which even your low level of chemical sensitivity will begin to affect your fibro symptoms. Below I was talking live about a recent experience that you might just relate to if you also live with Fibro and any level of chemical sensitivity.

Creating Safe Havens

How many ingredients does YOUR body lotion or hair conditioner have in it? What about the new carpet recently installed in your home, or the air freshener at your office? Do you find that symptoms seem to wax and wane in accordance to your exposure to new materials, shopping malls, clothing stores and the like?

Formaldehyde is just one of the carcinogenic chemicals that contributes to our toxic environment. Many people are exposed to it every day and don’t even know it. It’s often part of new car smell, new clothing, carpet, and body products. We have to be willing to make adjustments and not be so attached to things that can easily add to the complexity of our fibromyalgia symptoms.

I recommend and use only the most natural products. There are many more nontoxic products on the market today, from scent free laundry soap to my favorite body lotion from Miracle II (shown here) Nothing has more than 4-5 natural ingredients. M2 supports an alkaline body when used in place of conventional soap and body products…and is cost effective as well, each 32 oz. bottle will last 4-6 months with dilution. There are more companies supplying safe products but not all claims are true so whatever you choose to put on your body, be sure it is truly nontoxic.

Our world and environment is more complex and toxic than ever. There are simply things that we cannot control. Therefore we must make every effort to control our own space and the environments in which we reside.

Family members need to also be onboard in the efforts to maintain a healthy, non-toxic environment. If your teenage son is insistent on wearing cologne or other toxic fragrances, it might be time for an intervention of sorts to get everybody on the same page.

It is essential that family members understand the need for safe surroundings. If they want us feeling our best, they will make every effort to understand in the name of respect. It does not matter if your spouse or child does not ‘get it’. The important thing is that they are willing to support by making a few minor sacrifices. Yes, it is MINOR in comparison to living with fibromyalgia and the propensity towards increase of symptoms due to chemical sensitivity and synthetic fragrance exposures.

The first step to Mastery Over Pain

For more information on how chemical sensitivity exacerbates anxiety like symptoms within the fibro body.

Often times, ‘living smarter’ is simply living lighter, free from the toxic load that only exacerbates and drives our symptoms to intolerable levels and act as Endocrine Disruptors. A tool I highly recommend is use of a Vog Mask to avoid MCS exposures when out and about in public. These masks have been continually improved (functionally & style).

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

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For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store
01/03/2021
Alone, sad, or in pain for the holidays – Fibromyalgia Awareness

I get it. The holidays can bring a mix of emotions, especially when we are living with a chronic illness. There are so many unrealistic images and expectations during Christmas and the holiday season, that it can be really overwhelming.

If you are physically alone, sad, or in pain during this holiday season, you are actually not alone.

With fibromyalgia, we have additional challenges this time of year from seasonal changes, colder weather, the potential for SAD, seasonal affective disorder, and sometimes just the perfect storm of variables that increase symptoms, or bring on a flare.

If you suspect you might also be deficient in the critical Vitamin D, be sure to get tested, as this can be just one piece in seasonal disorders. Also see the paragraph on light therapy at bottom of article.

The (worldly way) is not the only way

Have you seen some of those holiday tv commercials portraying the husband who buys his wife a shiny new car wrapped in a big red bow? It’s there waiting in the driveway. Oh wait, he didn’t just buy her a new car, he bought a matching one for himself as well.

How many people can actually relate to this? Not many. And, the problem is that not only can you not relate, but it has the potential to make you feel even worse about your situation.

If you are living with chronic pain and symptoms of fibromyalgia, you might find the holidays more challenging. You might feel pressure to decorate, to buy all the presents, to host, or to travel.

The way of the world is not the only way, and the more we realize that, the more we can allow ourselves to get creative and do it our way.

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I made a graphic a few years back that says “Do you feel too crowded in a crowd, but too lonely when you’re alone?

With fibromyalgia, PTSD, or anxiety issues, you may have to be very discerning about what is right for you. If going to the mall brings up a lot of anxiety, be sure to not go alone, so that you have a friend or family member to focus on.

One of the worst things is to feel too crowded yet feel “alone” at the same time.

If you have MCS and you react to the chemicals and fragrances in the mall and clothing stores, this can feel exactly the same as anxiety and present with heart palpitations, head pain, muscle weakness, nausea, brain fog, and more. Fibromyalgia and Chemical Anxiety.

Family Traditions

What about the pressures of family traditions?
Did your mom or grandmother create awesome holiday traditions that you feel obligated to carry on?
My grandmother used to make a ton of Christmas cookies, all different kinds, and what a feat that was!
I still remember receiving the tin of cookies in the mail just before Christmas and feeling the love. (not to mention the best cookies ever!)

I would love to do this for all of my family members and friends, but for me, it is just not feasible. I used to make and sell cultured foods for my clients, and I would often spend too long of a time in the kitchen without breaks, just trying to get it done or meet timelines. Many times, it would “activate” my symptoms. I have decided to still make some holiday foods (my healthy versions) but it will only be for a small amount of friends and family. One problem that can occur is when you spend a lot of time preparing your house, your gifts, etc. and it goes unnoticed by those around you. People rarely “see” all of the effort put into something. Therefore, if we ourselves can enjoy the “process” of doing and creating, we are one step ahead. It really doesn’t matter if others know the time and effort involved.

Creativity this time of year is key

With all of the pressures and running around this time of year, one of the most peaceful and calming things we can do is create gifts or cards. Not only are gifts made at home more thoughtful, but it is so healing to spend time creating. Be sure to take your time so you are not rushed at the last minute to get a gift made. Do you start making creative gifts early in the year?

People with fibromyalgia have the potential for hand pain, and it is essential to take breaks. If you are desperate to create, but your hands are giving you more pain with repetitive motions, try using various types of compression until you find one that suits you.

What about natural light therapy?

If you are like me, and you depend on the sun in more ways than one, you might benefit from using light therapy, especially in the winter months.

This is a reasonable product for light therapy, and if you scroll down the product description, you will see the list of benefits it can provide.

Do one thing different

I say it all the time, but it is just so true that when our illness gets “used to” our normal actions and reactions, it’s got us. What can we do differently today? It can be something small like driving a different way home, or having something to look forward to in your schedule today.

This is very important. If impulsive actions prevent us from having things to look forward to, it can feel like there is nothing left, we are done, we are tired, we’ve seen it and done it all. Do you see what I mean? So allow yourself things to look forward to by planning, organizing, whatever it takes.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

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For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

01/03/2021
Epigenetic Inheritance – Chronic Awareness
Have you ever considered how trauma or memory in your parents or grandparents could affect you? What if you are living with a chronic illness and trauma is one piece of your mind-body component? You often hear me say how everything we are exposed to and influenced by matters, but what about when we were young, and we didn’t have a say in the matter? We were “exposed” to things just by being born, just by being there.

Physicians that showed how traumas and emotions can actually change the physiology of our cells. It was shown that these changes could occur anywhere in our bodies, not just our brains.

And, many years later, thru stimulation, these past traumas and powerful emotions could be made to reoccur as though they were happening again. This of course leads to the conclusion that our body (skin, muscle, organs, etc.) is a memory bank of our interaction with our environment, including our relationships.

Epigenetics studies how certain molecules called “markers” affect how the DNA in our cells is read. The DNA in all of our cells is the same; the order in which the DNA components are read determines the cell function or gene expression. We gather these markers during our lives in various locations in our bodies as we develop and interact with our environment.

An example of one function of these markers is to mask all irrelevant genes to allow a lung cell to be a lung cell and not a skin cell or liver cell for instance. This is a critical process that creates a perfectly operating cell; but, what if this process is corrupted! What if a “marker” shows up that changes the cell’s job duties or corrupts the cell’s receptors. This could have very serious consequences.

Okay, so what’s this about epigenetic inheritance? Well it is very similar to the above description; however, instead of physical changes caused by our own experiences, they are caused through inheritance from our parents (and maybe other generations).

In a study published in the online journal “Nature Neuroscience” two Emory University researchers shed a bright light on epigenetic inheritance. Their research involved introducing the smell of cherry blossoms to a test group of male mice and accompanying the smell with a mild electric shock to the mice’s feet.

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After three days, the test group was observed to fear the smell. Later these mice reproduced. After reaching adulthood, the offspring also showed a fear of the cherry blossom scent despite never having encountered it previously.

The bottom line is this study demonstrated that traumas to one generation can be passed on to future generations……epigenetic inheritance!

Just as remarkable, perhaps, is that the offspring mice were found to have actual physical changes:
- increased number of olfactory sensors dedicated to cherry blossom scent.
  - larger area in their brain to process this scent.
This study is the latest of several that have established epigenetic inheritance as a scientific fact. In one study this mindbody process demonstrated a sort of “adaptive” intelligence. Male rats whose fathers had ingested cocaine chose to ingest less than rats whose fathers had never ingested any.

The researcher on this study theorized that since cocaine is a toxin, the fathers passed down information to their offspring to help them survive by avoiding the toxin, a sort of allergy to the toxin.

Other studies of humans suggest that major traumas such as the Holocaust and the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack have impacted the children and grandchildren born afterwards.

Mindbody Epigenetics Link to MCS Or Fibromyalgia?

Much more work needs to be done to draw firm, science-based conclusions; but, if you asked me what my thoughts are on this whole subject, I’d respond as follows:

The whole idea that physical or emotional traumas, experienced by our ancestors, can cause real physical changes to cells in our body seems almost magic. But, I know that science supports this conclusion. The question is how these changes manifest themselves in us.

Take the example above of the rats that ingested cocaine. These fathers passed on an epigenetic “marker” to their offspring that caused those offspring to avoid cocaine. I said it was a kind of “allergy” to cocaine.

It just as well could have been a different “toxin”, say “tree pollen”, or “laundry detergent”, or “perfume” for example. Is it possible that I suffer from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) because my Mother or Grandmother passed on an epigenetic marker to me?

Or, did my exposure to mercury amalgam fillings and later paint fumes, when at 9-years of age my parents remodeled our home, generate a “marker” that changed the way my DNA is read by my body and damaged my cells. What I know for sure is that I developed chronic migraine headaches and unless it’s low VOX paint, those same fumes have the same result today.

As we stated in the first paragraph, it is now a proven fact that a traumatic interface to the environment and/or in our relationships with people can cause those traumas to actually change the way cells in some part of our body do their job. If that happens to be brain cells that produce Serotonin or one of the more than 100 other chemical messengers, large physical or emotional changes could result.

I can see (or speculate) a more direct link to MCS (an immune dysfunction) than I can to fibromyalgia which is a very complex disease; but I do see at least one link: as I showed on the Mindbody Science page, these traumas I spoke of do get stored all over the body in muscles, tendons, bones, organs, and the brain.

Science has demonstrated these traumas can be re-stimulated at any time throughout our lives and affect us just as much as the original one did. This could be one fibromyalgia link; however, we’ll just have to wait for further progress to know for sure. This is my own speculation; I’ve seen no scientific evidence along these lines.

All is not lost however; don’t forget that I also quoted a study (the baby monkeys) on the Mindbody Science page that found a way to reverse those physical changes. That’s why the Mind-Body Connection page and its subpages are so important and point the way to correcting the damage to the cells or our emotional state. You need to use the tools outlined on those various pages; they are powerful if used consistently.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store
01/03/2021
Pain Sensations in Fibromyalgia

Most people with fibromyalgia experience different types of pain sensations.

I have listed below some of the most common pain sensations. I must say something first. Recently I was having a conversation with my husband and he said something that amazed me…
He said that one of the most common adjectives that I use to describe my own pain is “pulsating” (yes that is very true, and he really does listen)

The symptoms of fibromyalgia can be many, but the most prominent is chronic pain. The type, level and location of the pain is what is unique to fibromyalgia itself.

You often hear me say that fibromyalgia affects multiple systems of the body, and it can also bring various types of pain.

This is good for those on the inside and the outside of fibromyalgia to understand. Also, so that we can keep a very accurate Symptoms List, to differentiate between primary symptoms, secondary symptoms and types of pain. Yes, these are different, and that is why we don’t just create a random symptoms list.

Pain Sensations in Fibromyalgia

What exactly does a fibromyalgia body feel when it comes to pain, both internally or externally?

The most common pain sensations include stabbing, pulsating, burning, cramping, radiating, intense soreness, tenderized, shaking, throbbing, aching, pulling, and heightened sensitivity pain which can occur anywhere around the body. Yes, a heightened and overactive nervous system can easily produce pain in the body.

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When I talk about migraine headaches for example, I often say that this is one of the more debilitating areas of pain because this is the area where we think, interact, and express ourselves to the world around us.

Try studying or working with a chronic migraine. It is a big challenge. This area can also affect the eyes, proper vision, TMJ, sinus pain, ear pain, and even pull on the muscles around the face, possibly affecting your appearance.

Painful After-Sensations in Fibromyalgia

What makes fibromyalgia unique is the various pain sensations that can occur at any given time.

After-sensations are perceptions of pain that linger after the source of pain has stopped. In a study printed in The Journal of Pain in 2017, researchers found that fibromyalgia patients experienced greater pain sensations 15 seconds after painful stimuli than healthy people without fibromyalgia. The participants with fibromyalgia also registered the pain faster than most other participants.

But wait you say. ONLY 15 seconds? I know, that is a study we cited here, but what I often say is that when the fibro body is heightened or overstimulated through any stimuli or response, it can take an extended amount of time to regulate that stress/pain back down.

This study also found differences in activity within the medial temporal lobe of the fibromyalgia sufferers, which gives some insight into the potential origin of fibro pain sensations.

More research is needed to determine why fibromyalgia patients experience pain faster and longer than most other people, but the study reveals a lot about the lingering pain often felt by those diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Differences in brain functionality may be at least partially to blame.

Brain Inflammation & Fibromyalgia Pain

Inflammation in the brain has long been suspected in both fibromyalgia pain and CFS/ME, so researchers started studying spinal cavity fluid to test for signs of inflammation. This fluid circulates between the spinal cord and the brain, so markers of inflammation are solid evidence of inflammation in the brain.

This research has proven that fluid taken from fibromyalgia patients does in fact have more inflammatory markers. This means that the widespread pain experienced by fibro patients may be at least partially the result of neuro-inflammation.

I can personally attest to this, and will be sharing some new information in the future about how my living with, and working with fibromyalgia and each of its primary co-conditions became a lesson in various therapies and procedures that should not be considered for those of us with fibromyalgia.

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Outside the Boundaries of Known Pain Types

There are two main medically recognized types of pain: nociceptive and neuropathic. Nociceptive pain is caused by stimuli from the surrounding environment that is reported to the brain as an injury in need of repair.

Neuropathic pain comes from within that internal reporting system itself. Diabetic neuropathy is an example of this second type of pain.

The problem with fibromyalgia pain is that it doesn’t always fit easily into any of these categories. As I stated in the beginning of this article, there can be so many pain sensations in fibromyalgia, and they can be coming from various systems of the body.

You might be experiencing over active nerves which cause you to feel shaky, but that in turn might spur on irritable bowel symptoms which cause cramping and aching pains in the abdomen.

It’s even possible that the root cause is different for various groups of people, which could lead to multiple diagnoses or types of fibromyalgia in the future.

I often talk about how symptoms started for me at age 9, right after mercury amalgam poisoning. It might be heavy metals for many people, and viral activity for others. It might be rooted in trauma that extends from generation before.

Treating Fibromyalgia Pain

Here at living smarter with fibromyalgia, we believe in treating the “whole person”. When talking to anyone with fibromyalgia, I know that their main concern often lies in the future and how they will cope and manage this condition while aging.

That is common, and you are not alone. That is exactly why we do this.

You are at the right place, especially if you don’t want to rely on long term prescription medication that comes with a risk of many side effects. At the same time, this doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Many people have created more good days by following our protocols even if they were still on medication. Treating fibromyalgia and all of its complexity is about not only getting to those root causes but as we like to say here “eating that fibro elephant ONE bite at a time.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

01/03/2021
Fibromyalgia Natural Therapy: Intentional Grounding

With constant exposure to stimulants in our environment, people with fibromyalgia need to practice a natural therapy I call “intentional grounding”. Due to the fact that some people living with fibromyalgia cannot always travel in the same way as a non-fibro person (due to severity of symptoms) this becomes even more essential.

No, it’s not just for football anymore!!
Intentional grounding means getting out and away from all of our modern day devices and conveniences and getting “one” with the earth, the ground, with nature.

If you are like me, animals are one of the best ways to calm the mind and body. This day I was able to foster a baby goat by taking him back to camp for the afternoon. It truly warmed my heart when he went to sleep in my arms.

How often do you really take your shoes off and walk on the grass or on the sand at the beach or spend quiet time enjoying the sights and sounds of nature?

If you have been living with fibromyalgia for any amount of time, you likely experience excess “stimulation” on a regular basis. Because of our propensity to have overactive nerves and a heightened “alert”, the nervous and endocrine systems are too often “overworked and underpaid,” as I like to say.

With fibromyalgia, we are ultra-sensitive to many things in our environment. Radiation from computers and cell phones, lights, sounds, toxins, pollution, and the many stressors that we all experience on a daily basis.

In the workplace, at the shopping mall, driving, traveling, even in our own homes. My body is good at telling me when it’s time to get grounded. I start to get irritated, stressed, increased pain and/or symptoms or I simply begin to feel burned out. I almost start to “crave” the feeling of being able to take a time out.

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Fibro-Girl Says “You’re Grounded”

Speaking of “time outs”. Do you remember when you were young and you did something really bad? Did you get “grounded” for it? “You’re grounded!!”, your Mom or Dad would say. Or, you were sent to your room for a major TIME-OUT!!

Now as an adult, that doesn’t sound like such a BAD thing does it? As adults, we need to give ourselves more time outs, especially when living with a chronic illness such as fibromyalgia.

I like to go out in my backyard as often as possible (more so in the warmer months) spread out a towel on the grass and lie down. Looking up at the sky and connecting with nature, or watching my dog, Altoid, chasing squirrels, that’s what life is all about. If the sun is out, it’s a great time to soak in some vitamin D at the same time.

I might also do some light exercises. It’s really a great time for body awareness. (Now, don’t bring your cellphone with you; that defeats the purpose.) Seriously, we are so connected to our internet and social media these days, and it’s really affecting the well-being of so many people, with or without a chronic illness.

You know that feeling you get when you desperately need a vacation? Daily or weekly grounding can help to “satisfy” that burned out feeling we all experience at times. The reason we get overwhelmed is often due to a lack of rest, and a lack of being at “one” with the earth.

Natural Therapy Can Provide Healing “Negative Ions”

Another precious commodity is negative ions. The beach, just after a rain or maybe a waterfall all create negative ions which can help to bring a greater sense of well-being and connection. The more we expose ourselves to these wonders of the earth, the more we realize what really matters. The more we can detach ourselves from modern society, the better chance we have at reducing pain levels and symptoms through the endorphins, the body’s natural pain killer.

Being an “ultra-sensitive” MCS person, I feel everything in the environment. Living in the city doesn’t really feel like my personal ideal, so that makes it even more essential to create that sense of well-being in various ways.

A key to greater success for our natural therapy “Time-Outs” or “Intentional Grounding” practice is to set aside time every day. Maybe you have a day timer where you write down your daily action items. Maybe you have a timer that reminds you when it is time to decompress and wind it down.

See, we all have things to do, and the truth is that many of us will put other things and other people first. Sometimes that is necessary, but when we have a chronic illness, we cannot afford to do that on a regular basis.

Balance and Breathing

I know, I get it as I am a caretaker as well. Working in the holistic health field and being a person who likes to help others, I have had to continually find that balance. Let me say, that when we do find that balance, it is priceless. Natural therapy can help you achieve this. I never realized how much so until I started taking more weekend trips to the North Georgia mountains, a one-hour drive from our home.

Chronic stress and multi-tasking are not normal for our bodies to endure on a regular basis. Now throw a chronic illness on top of that, and we have a recipe for burnout and worsening of all symptoms. We cannot tolerate that. A “natural therapy” time-out calms the mind and body.

Don’t forget what we like to call 20 X 2. This means taking 20 minutes twice a day to engage some controlled breathing. Even just 10 minutes is fine too!! The point is to take the time for deliberate controlled breathing because as I often say ” people with fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions tend to be shallow breathers” This can also help to control over-eating, so taking time before meals is a great idea.

We have created the mind-body articles pages in the site here as a reminder and guidance as to the importance of natural therapy daily “time outs,” including deep breathing and meditation. I hope you will peruse those articles and see if they might guide you to greater relaxation and clarity about how you are currently coping with your conditions so you can make the changes you need to make.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

01/03/2021
Fibromyalgia Natural Treatment: Thinking Outside the Box

We need to start employing more fibromyalgia natural treatments if we are to be ‘living smarter’. Conventional ways of dealing with fibromyalgia have obviously not worked so well for most people. Drugs, pain relievers, topicals. All of these are merely putting a band-aid over the problem and not addressing the ROOT issues.

Fibromyalgia Natural Treatment Addresses Toxicity And Deficiency

As we learn in Holistic Medicine, the two aggravating factors in the disease model are Toxicity and Deficiency. This goes for Fibromyalgia as well. This does not mean however that if we fix all of our deficiency and toxicity that we will be ‘cured’.

No, its more about decreasing the toxic load on the body while addressing nutrient deficits and other issues that may be contributing to symptoms, pain and a general sense of un-well-being.

Does it make sense to be existing for the rest of your life on high doses of toxic meds? Most people that I talk to and work with are adamant about NOT staying dependent on drugs. They at least want to find ways to use ONLY the lowest effective dose of any medicine. That is key.

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We all know the harmful physical effects on the body when taking drugs every day (Toxicity to the liver, kidneys, GI tract, etc.) Yet what about the ongoing effects on the brain? The instant fix mentality? The lessening of tolerance to pain? The lack of resolve when drugs affect the healthy functioning of the brain?

Yes, we have to learn how to better think AND act outside the common box. First, I want you to start thinking..” What if doing the same thing I normally do wasn’t a choice today?” “What if I was forced to do something differently?” See, we are conditioned to live, think and act a certain way. And yet, when it stops working for us, we don’t often question why and what we can do to think for ourselves.

Second, I suggest thinking about what might be the root cause of the pain and symptoms, even if you have no clue right now, keep an open mind. The mind wants to divert your attention and creates pain to intercept what is really going on. It could be festered emotions, lack of control in your life, anger, resentment, OR there could be a cellular deficiency that needs to be addressed through a fibromyalgia natural treatment, a cleaner diet and quality supplementation.

Only in the case of a trauma or a recent accident that perpetuated the pain, should we be thinking quick fix or a response to ‘getting through’ the immediate pain. Again, I am not all or nothing, one hundred percent anti-drug, I do believe there is a time and place. However, when those lines become blurred, we can too easily become dependent and lose the ability to attain greater levels of healing by not addressing the root cause.

Society does not ask us to think and act outside the box; that is important to remember.
We must understand that this way of living is not always common place. Why? Because when you are in pain for instance, the people around you want to ‘fix’ your pain for you; they feel helpless. It also brings them down on some level so they will often ‘support’ you in taking the quick fix.

We have a choice… Are we willing to go through whatever it takes to learn how to live smarter with fibromyalgia? It can be done. Not every day will be perfect yet when we use enough of the right tools, we can affect healing and have a sense of satisfaction in our choices to live, think and function at a higher level. Continue to believe in your magnificence and follow the fibromyalgia natural treatment protocols that I describe throughout this website.

https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

Fibromyalgia Stores

Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

01/03/2021
Living with Fibromyalgia Requires Adhering To Our “Body Clock”

Living with fibromyalgia requires that we adhere to our body clock. The body clock is the internal rhythm that supports our daily functions. Why is adhering to our body clock so important? Because when we do, we naturally support the many systems in the body that correlate with fibromyalgia, especially the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. Optimal health in these systems can at least decrease symptoms, inflammation and levels of pain.

HGH or Human Growth Hormone is essential for good health and is secreted at night during sleep.

HGH controls everything from metabolism to how our bodies age. There is a reason for lightness and darkness and nature has built this intelligence within every body. Actually, it’s within our cells.

During the light hours of the day our bodies are more in tune to digestion, assimilation of nutrients and creating the energy required to handle our daily activities. During the dark hours, our body is in need of regeneration and this can only take place when the body is resting and in deeper phases of REM sleep.

The pineal gland (eye level in the brain) is a producer of both serotonin and melatonin. The pineal gland is activated by the sun and this in turn produces serotonin naturally. You know how much I speak about helping our bodies to naturally produce hormones, right? Well, with fibromyalgia and our extreme sensitivities, it is even more crucial that we produce hormones naturally as intended, whenever possible that is. This is critical for us in living with fibromyalgia.

Then as the sun is going down, the pineal produces melatonin. But we must support this natural function by winding down, turning off lights, computers, etc. For most of us, this takes practice for sure as we are not as “wired” in this day and age to rise and sleep with the sun. Practice makes progress here.

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“Stress, stimulants, and caffeine are not the only things that damage the adrenal glands; ‘second winds‘ are also very damaging to the adrenal glands and to the entire endocrine system”

Getting proper sleep when living with fibromyalgia

Getting proper sleep is so important when you have fibromyalgia that if all the natural Rxs do not work, you may need to talk with your doctor about trying a non-addictive sleep aid while implementing a schedule to support better sleeping patterns at the same time.

I also recommend buying a pill cutter so you can take only the lowest effective dose regardless of what your doctor prescribes.
Also, with establishing proper lifestyle patterns, any sleep aid should be used as a temporary support and not long term whenever possible.

If you decide to try Melatonin to help you fall asleep, just like with anything else, try taking the lowest effective dose. Start with 1mg. and see if it helps you fall asleep within half to one hour of taking. If that is not sufficient, try 1.5 mg. Then up to 3mg. if needed. Some formulations go up to 10mg. Melatonin is still a hormone, and we want to use caution. If you have an auto immune illness, talk with your doctor before using melatonin.

Try using a melatonin oral spray, which will bypass the liver and be better utilized. These are very cost effective.

How about a relaxing bath before bed to wind down and calm the mind and adrenal glands? A good recipe might include 1 cup epsom salts, 1/2 cup sea salts and a few Tbsp. of ginger root powder.

There are also many sleep CD’s on the market and some use various sounds and vibrations that can aid in helping the mind and body to relax. The key is taking the time to wind down long enough before actually getting into bed.

Many of us are busy and working to get everything done in the evenings, but the problem is when our second winds are allowed to come in. After too many ‘second winds‘ we lose touch with HOW to wind down and this only perpetuates fibro symptoms.

Meal times and the Body Clock

As I mentioned above, during the daylight hours, our body is very in tune with digestion and that is the only time we should be ingesting food. We have the most digestive fire during lunch hours, about 11am to 3 pm. It is never a good idea to skip lunch. This can be hard on the digestive system and the gallbladder.

Try to eat your heaviest meal during this time of the day and work to eat lighter dinners if you do not already. Or eat two smaller meals in the afternoon, say late morning and then middle afternoon. Avoid eating at night or after the sun goes down if at all possible. Of course, if hunger is keeping you awake at night, then a light snack, preferably easy to digest like fruit would be most ideal.

Avoid too much protein after 5 pm as this takes much longer to digest. A good suggestion I like to give is to use your protein or animal protein as a condiment at dinner, for instance, chicken or salmon pieces on a salad.

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Fibromyalgia and Sleep Remedies

Setting a schedule for bed time can be challenging when living with fibromyalgia, and yet it is also the most essential. Try to first utilize natural Rxs if sleep does not come easy.

Herbs, low dose melatonin or amino acids such as glutamine and glycine have been shown to increase levels of human growth hormone, one of the hormones that is responsible for healthy sleep patterns, metabolism and energy levels. Remember also that morning sun or light is also an essential Rx for re-setting the internal body clock (detailed in protocol summary page)

Not everyone does well with oral melatonin. If you take melatonin and find yourself waking up after only a few hours of sleep, you may need to reduce the dosage or talk with your doctor.

Fibromyalgia, Exercise, and the Body Clock

Another tool we can utilize is eating meals on a regular basis and getting in some form of safe and effective exercise. As a fitness trainer living and working with fibromyalgia, I have found that afternoon is often the best time for more intensive exercise while morning is best for a walk with the dog, friend or family member to get the blood flowing and reduce stiffness.

You see, it is essential to know your body when it comes to all daily activities including exercise. It might not be right for you to get up and exercise first thing in the morning. You should never try to adapt to some “ideal” in terms of daily activity. I find that our joints and muscles will respond better with afternoon or even early evening workouts.

You might hear people say it’s not good to exercise too late in the day. But with fibromyalgia, I truly believe, the later the better, just keep it within two hours of bedtime. In fact, if you are incorporating any amount of yoga or tai-chi moves, then all the better to help with sleep issues. Just give yourself enough time to wind down after workouts of any kind.

If adrenal issues are challenging , be sure to use adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Vitamin C , Keto-7 DHEA or other means of adrenal stress support so that exercise will work for your body and not against it. This will again support the body in winding down properly. The body clock is meant to support us yet we must adhere to these few key principles within our daily patterns to create the most functional life possible while living with fibromyalgia.

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References:

Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

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Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

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Fibromyalgia Stores

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01/03/2021