Supplements for Fibromyalgia Albany NY

There are many ways to approach chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. Many patients find relief with complimentary and alternative practices including Chinese herbal medicine and vitamin supplements. While there's no regulation on the safety and efficacy of these over-the-counter products, many patients swear by them. Here, we take a look at four supplements that may help relieve some fibromyalgia symptoms.

1. SAMe, pronounced Sammy, is S-adenosyltheionine. It's not an herb or vitamin but rather a synthetic version of an amino acid compound found naturally in the body and plants. It's thought to help with depression, energy level and to protect the liver. For patients with fibromyalgia, depression and fatigue are part of the syndrome. Some studies say SAMe may relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis too. Other studies contradict this information and it is generally agreed that more research is needed. SAMe is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects.

2. Vitamin D. Many studies have linked vitamin D deficiency with muscle weakness, musculoskeletal pain, immunodeficiency disorders and fibromyalgia syndrome. Vitamin D2 is synthesized by plants and Vitamin D3 is synthesized by our skin in response to sunlight.  According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin D helps us maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus and aids in the absorption of calcium to form and maintain strong bones. While it's hard to get enough sunlight to supply our Vitamin D needs, it's easy to take a supplement.  Nutritionists advise adults to take between 800-1000 IU per day but people who are Vitamin D deficient might require as much as 2000 IU daily. 

3. Fiber. Constipation and irritable bowel syndrome are common with fibromyalgia.  Alternative and traditional health practitioners recommend fiber to help push food through the intestines, relieve constipation and diarrhea. If getting enough in your diet is diffi...