Eating and drinking are some of the few pleasures often left to people severely affected by debilitating chronic illnesses, especially Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If that’s you, by asserting your right to eat and drink as you please, you may be making yourself feel worse. An indignant assertion to enjoy whatever you wish to eat or drink may not be worth the price you’re paying it.
According to Daniela Boykin, RD, “Ask a Nutritionist” column in the last Pain Community newsletter by the American Pain Foundation, some of the problem substances are caffeine, alcohol, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), and Aspartame (Nutrasweet). Those substances have long been suspected as heightening pain symptoms (and possibly causing other symptoms)!
Some people experience a lowering of pain by maintaining a vegetable diet and/or a diet higher in complex carbohydrates and lower in protein. (For me, my system works best if I get an adequate supply of daily protein. I suspect that level is a bit higher than what Ms. Boykins is suggesting. I must do what works well for me. Each of our bodies is different in the ratio of protein, fats and carbohydrates that the body system requires.)
However, consuming a high level of fats and sugar should be avoided. In fact, in many circles, sugar is suspected of increasing inflammation. More inflammation usually means more widespread body pain.
From the newsletter:
The most practical thing to do is keep a food diary and note what you are eating while monitoring your pain to find out how foods make you feel. As with other chronic illnesses, persistent pain should incorporate a variety of treatment approaches and eating well can help boost energy and mood. Try to work with a registered dietition or nutritionist in partnership with your healthcare provider to work out a plan for healthy eating and physical activity.
To eat and drink what is best for your body and health takes conscious thought and planning for most people. Be sure that you don’t take yourself for granted at any time and instead quit eating and planning for your good health.
Thanks, Cinda Crawford
Host of the Health Matters Show
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