Nutritional supplements

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Nutritional supplements

Two most important nutrients that are found to be particularly useful for fibromyalgia are: magnesium and 5-HTP, a supplement. (Please read the safety warning before taking 5-HTP.) Read more about 5-HTP combination Therapy.

The combination of magnesium and malic acid helps to increase energy. These nutrients are precursors to the Krebs cycle, a series of enzyme reactions that are a key part of the production of energy on the cellular level. Take 100 to 200 milligrams of magnesium and 400 to 800 milligrams of malic acid three times a day, twenty minutes before each meal. (Some professionals recommend up to 500 milligrams of magnesium and 2,000 milligrams of malic acid.) With the extra malic acid and magnesium, fibromyalgia sufferers can handle exercise and still get out and about the next day. The combination magnesium and malic acid may also be helping the bodies handle physiologic stress better. (Caution: People with heart or kidney problems should check with their doctors before taking supplemental magnesium.)

Antioxidants help reduce free-radical damage and fight inflammation. Take a good antioxidant formula that provides daily:

5,000 to 10,000 International Units of vitamin A
Up to 10,000 milligrams of buffered vitamin C
400 to 800 international units of vitamin E
200 micrograms of selenium.

This is called ACES therapy and is a very good combination of vitamins and nutrients. Vitamins A, C and E are called antioxidants. They are useful to combat free- radical damage at the cellular level. Vitamin E, in particular, improves circulation and reduces muscle pain.

Note: If you are pregnant, or intend to get pregnant, or if you have liver disease, consult your doctor before taking supplemental vitamin A. If you have high blood pressure, limit your intake of supplemental vitamin E to a total of 400 International Units daily, and if you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner), consult your physician before taking supplemental vitamin E.

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM or SAM-e) is an amino acid derivative that has been shown in clinical trials to reduce the number of trigger points and areas of pain, lessen pain and fatigue, and improve mood. Take 400 milligrams two or three times daily. Be patient. It can take up to six weeks to see results.

Evening primrose oil is an excellent source of essential fatty acids, which act as natural anti-inflammatories in the body. By dealing with the inflammation, pain is reduced.

If emotional or physical stress is a source of problems, taking extra B vitamins will help the nerves and improve energy.

If fatigue is a problem, bee pollen or royal jelly supplements are safe and effective sources of energy which will not deplete the adrenal glands, but are building and supporting.

Calcium and magnesium are relaxing and improve muscle and nerve function.

Intramuscular injections of vitamin B12 and magnesium sulphate have been helpful against pain, insomnia and the low energy of fibromyalgia. Treatment is usually long-term, three to six months or more to stabilize, and often there are relapses.

DHEA has been used successfully in the treatment of many autoimmune disorders including multiple sclerosis, lupus and fibromyalgia. DHEA regulates the immune system and maintains the metabolic and structural integrity of the nervous system. DHEA has been shown to be antiviral and has benefited conditions as serious as HIV infection and AIDS.

Thymus glandular supports the immune system with grape seed extract and quercetin. Green foods should be added for optimal nutrition. Whey protein and creatine monohydrate support the musculoskeletal system in its repair process.

Bromelain helps reduce inflammation. Take 400 milligrams three times daily, between meals.

Coenzyme Q10 is also an antioxidant and helps deliver oxygen to cells. Take 60 milligrams twice daily, between meals.

Lipoic acid is very useful for enhancing the body's utilization of carbohydrates and enhancing energy. Take 100 milligrams three times daily.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen (NADH) is an antioxidant enzyme that occurs in all living cells. It facilitates the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and noradrenaline. Low levels of neurotransmitters are often associated with fibromyalgia. Taking 15 milligrams one-half hour before breakfast and dinner often improves concentration, stamina, and energy.

Phosphatidylserine, a type of lipid, can be helpful if memory problems accompany fibromyalgia. It often yields rapid and impressive improvement in memory and mental alertness. Unfortunately, it is relatively expensive. Take 75 to 100 milligrams three times daily. (Gingko Biloba is a cheaper alternative.)

Nutrient Recommendations

Essential
Coenzyme Q10
Acidophilus
Lecithin
Malic acid and magnesium
Manganese
Proteolytic enzymes
Vitamin A and vitamin E
Vitamin C with bioflavonoids
Vitamin B complex injections plus extra vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and vitamin B12 plus raw liver extract or vitamin B complex
Dimethylglycine (DMG)
Free-form amino acid complex
Grape seed extract
Garlic (Kyolic)

Important
Calcium and magnesium plus potassium and selenium and zinc
DL-phenylalanine (DLPA)
Essential fatty acids (black currant seed oil, flaxseed oil, and primrose oil are good sources)
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
L-Leucine plus L-isoleucine and L -valine
L- Tyrosine
Melatonin
Multivitamin and mineral complex plus natural carotenoids