Food Sensitivities & Fibromyalgia: What’s the Connection?
Did you know that about 33 million Americans suffer from food allergies? That figure doesn’t even take into account the number of people affected by food sensitivity. Unlike allergies, food sensitivity isn’t deadly, but it’s more challenging to identify, and it may fuel fibromyalgia and other types of chronic pain.
Can Food Sensitivity Worsen Fibromyalgia?
Is there a connection between fibromyalgia and food sensitivity? Research strongly suggests that people with fibromyalgia tend to see worse symptoms after consuming certain foods, including
- Dairy
- Eggs
- Nuts
- Soy
- Gluten
- Fish
- Shellfish
This isn’t an exhaustive list. Also, food sensitivity associated with fibromyalgia can vary from person to person. For example, some patients can have a nightshade sensitivity that causes painful flare-ups whenever they eat tomatoes.
How Do You Identify a Food Sensitivity?
If you have fibromyalgia and a food sensitivity, you may want to go on an elimination diet. Unlike food allergies, reactions associated with food sensitivities are harder to detect. To solve this problem, an elimination diet involves removing entire food groups from your menu and reintroducing them slowly to identify specific foods that trigger your fibromyalgia symptoms. Consider enlisting the help of a fibromyalgia specialist when carrying out your elimination diet.
Although you could do skin and blood testing to uncover a food sensitivity, these methods are more accurate in detecting allergies. With food sensitivities, these tests can yield false results. For better accuracy, you’re better off consulting your pain management doctor who can interpret such tests within the context of your medical history.
Ask a Cincinnati Provider Who Treats Fibromyalgia
Many patients report a considerable improvement in their fibromyalgia symptoms when they abstain from certain foods. However, sticking to a new diet can be difficult. If you’re dealing with chronic pain and need nutritional support, visit a fibromyalgia practitioner at Blatman Health and Wellness Center. You’ll get guidance on dietary choices, nutritional therapy, and other pain treatment options.
