What is Fibromyalgia
The causes of Fibromyalgia are not clear, and there are several ” triggers” that may be responsible for changes in the central nervous system leading to symptoms. Events such as surgery, injury, genetics, PTSD and Lyme Disease are often associated with Fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a condition that can cause a gauntlet of symptoms :
Extreme sensitivity, stiffness, widespread pain, fatigue, poor sleep, cognitive problems (‘fibro-fog’), headaches and depression.
”You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”― Bob Marley
Finding Strength
Battling all these symptoms can lead to feeling drained and worn out.
It is important to find foods that give your body an energy boost.
Supportive Foods
A balanced diet should include:
Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, low fat dairy and lean proteins.
Ginger, Turmeric and Cumin are wonderful for assisting with digestion and reducing inflammation.
When creating your meals try to slow down the absorption of carbohydrates by combining them with lean proteins and healthy fats.
Some foods to try are: avocado’s, nuts and seeds, broccoli and legumes. Don’t forget the dark green leafy vegetables and a good oatmeal breakfast will provide your the nutrients, fibre and energy to start your day.
One of my favourite recipes.
Sweet Potato Dal
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp of fresh finely chopped ginger
1 large sweet potato
1 tbsp tikka masala paste
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp tomato puree
400 ml coconut milk
1 tbsp vegetable stock paste
400 ml can of lentils
60 g spinach
300ml water
Method
peel, grate and chop the ginger.
peel and chop sweet potato into small chunks.
heat olive oil in a large pan on medium heat.
add ginger, tikka masala paste, and tomato puree and stir for 1 minute.
add sugar, water, coconut milk and vegetable stock paste and sweet potato.
bring to boil and cover, simmer for 20 minutes.
add lentils, stir and simmer for 10 minutes
add spinach, stir until wilted. Add salt and pepper as needed.
Add fresh yogurt and naan bread for a perfect dinner.
Keep a Journal
A food journal will help you track how your body responds to the foods you are eating. Tracking your symptoms over a period of time will start to show you patterns in your body response.
Self Care
Finding the willpower to do exercise when you are feeling worn out can be almost impossible, yet exercise can bring so much relief.
Try gentle and slow flow yoga including Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga stimulates and stretches the body’s fascia; the thin sheath of connective tissue that surrounds every part of your body. Steady and consistent stretching makes the fascia more adaptable, improving the distribution of nutrients and overall functioning of the body. The muscles and connective tissues receive a deep massage and the body has a chance to find relief and feel nourished.
Kim Fiona Yoga 