Fibromyalgia is a little-understood syndrome which causes chronic, widespread muscle and joint tenderness and often involves a constellation of maladies including anxiety, fatigue, IBS, insomnia, and depression. Fibromyalgia is one of many conditions for which conventional medicine has no good explanation for and consequently current treatment consists of drugs such us: tramadol, valium, which have been approved to treat the symptoms of pain and/or depression that often accompanies the syndrome. One of the most debilitating aspects of fibromyalgia is enduring fatigue and currently there are no FDA approved treatments for this symptom. Many sufferers are left on disability or partial disability while they struggle to get through the day. Below are are my top 3 recommendations for fribromyalgia-related fatigue.
1. D-Ribose is a naturally occurring sugar in the body and a vital component of ATP, the body’s fuel source at the cellular level. It can provide a boost of energy within a few days and users with fibromyalgia report a lifting of brain fog which is great. What’s not so great: Being pure sugar, the substance is capable of feeding candida and other opportunistic infections in immune compromised individuals, so it is not appropriate for everyone.
2. Malic acid and Magnesium, often found together in supplements, can help the body produce ATP more efficiently and users find that they have less muscle soreness. Drawbacks: none.
3. AgeLoc Vitality can boost the number and activity of mitochondria inside your cells which is the site of ATP manufacture. Vitality can also lift brain fog and increase physical endurance. Users also report a decrease in muscle soreness. Cons: Occasionally produces short-term insomnia in individuals due to its brain-awakening effects. This tends to level out over time.
Note: Fatigue can have many causes including hidden infection, poor functioning of the adrenal glands, side effects of medication, and mental illness such as depression. Energy solutions are best discussed with a qualified health practitioner.
C. Erich Cook, L.Ac. is available for Herbal Consultations and Acupuncture sessions at Adams Avenue Integrative Health. Call 619-546-4806 to schedule today!