Fibromyalgia is a common condition that is difficult to endure and treat. It is characterized by tenderness in the body, fatigue, sleep disorders, and irritable bowel syndrome. Many people have other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. It is the third most commonly diagnosed inflammatory joint disorder following osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, a case study published in the Annals of Pharmacology in June 2001 had promising results for those suffering with fibromyalgia. Some fibromyalgia patients are getting relief from eliminating monosodium glutamate (MSG) and aspartame from their diet. It found that four particular patients with different presenting complaints of fibromyalgia all had complete, or nearly complete resolution of their symptoms within months of eliminating these two elements from their diet.
Scientists are relating the relief of symptoms to the reduction of excitotoxins in the patients’ bodies. MSG and aspartate (a byproduct of aspartame) act as excitatory neurotransmitters, which can overstimulate the nervous system and cause chronic pain syndromes. By eliminating these chemicals from the body, chronic pain decreased or went away completely and many other symptoms the patients were experiencing were relieved or reduced. If the patients consumed MSG or aspartame again, the symptoms returned.
MSG is used to enhance the flavor in most processed foods. It can be listed as gelatin, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, textured protein, and yeast extract. Aspartame is the most common artificial sweetener on the market since the early 1980’s.
The sensitivity to MSG and aspartame is not the cause of all fibromyalgia cases because many people were not helped when they eliminated these chemicals from their diet. It is a positive step that fibromyalgia sufferers can take to see if it works for them. Therefore, pay attention to the food labels and try to avoid processed foods when possible. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables can fill you up and help you curb the craving for processed foods.
