Some research studies suggest that taking amino acids cure fibromyalgia. Since fibromyalgia sufferers are not able to properly break down amino acids in their bodies, it has been suggested that if a fibromyalgia patient were to take free form amino acids such as methionine or phenylalanine, this would decrease the chronic muscular and joint pains caused by the disorder. Before natural remedies can be considered, however, it's important to have a basic understanding of the disorder, the causes and symptoms, and common treatments as well as natural remedies.
About Fibromyalgia
According to WebMD, fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and tender points, such as your chest, back, neck, hips, and knees. It also causes fatigue and may lead to depression. According to the Mayo Clinic website, fibromyalgia affects about two percent of the United States population. Women are usually more likely to develop the chronic disorder than men. However, your risk of getting fibromyalgia does increase as you age.
Causes and Symptoms
According to WebMD, no one can pinpoint the causes of fibromyalgia. Some experts believe that this disorder may be caused by an illness, trauma, or severe stress. Others are researching hormonal problems and chemical imbalances in the nervous system. For example, lower levels of serotonin in the blood stream may decrease the body's natural ability to deal with stress and may lead to anxiety disorders and depression.. According to the Mayo Clinic, genetics may also be a factor. Researchers also believe there could be certain genetic mutations that may make you more susceptible to the causes of the disorder.
Symptoms
According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, there are several symptoms associated with this disorder. Pain is one of the most obvious symptoms. The pain is usually widespread and intense.
Some fibromyalgia suffers experience twitching, tender muscles and joints, and throbbing as a result of the sharp pain. Other symptoms include fatigue, the inability to sleep well through the night, depression, dizziness, restless leg syndrome, skin rashes, vision problems, and memory, concentration, and coordination problems.
Treatments
According to the Mayo Clinic website, several medications are available to help decrease some of fibromyalgia's symptoms. In terms of medications, analgesics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs may be helpful. For example, over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol may help reduce some of the pain and stiffness in the joints. Your doctor may suggest ibuprofen (i.e. Motrin), naproxen sodium (i.e. Aleve), or aspirin for pain management. If you are experiencing sleep problems or depression, your doctor may prescribe the medications Fluoxetine (Prozac) or Duloxentine (Cymbalta). Some patients are also prescribed medications commonly used for epilepsy (i.e. Neurontin, Lyrica, etc.) as a way to reduce some of the pain and muscle twitching.
Natural Remedies
According to the Medicine Net website, exercise and a special diet are natural ways to deal with fibromyalgia. For example, walking, biking, and swimming exercises are low impact and may help with stiffness in the joints and muscles. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, you might also try yoga, aromatherapy, and breathing techniques.
How Amino Acids Cure Fibroymyalgia
Advocates of the amino acid cure believe that fibryomyalgia may be caused in part by the bodies inability to process amino acids. The resulting lack of proteins from this problem diminishes the bodies ability to produce and repair tissue, as well as to maintain the appropriate blood sugar balance. This may be responsible for some of the symptoms associated with the illness.
According to the Natural Cure Remedy website, one of the reasons why amino acids cure fibromyalgia is that amino acids produce enzymes that help to stimulate growth and the development of healthy body tissues. They also help to maintain the body's blood sugar levels and hormone and chemical balances required in a healthy immune system.
Those who believe in the amino acid cure suggest that free form amino acids are best to use because they go directly into the bloodstream. This bypasses the bodies need to produce the amino acids, thus helping to bolster the body's function even though the body cannot properly process standard amino acids.
Other Options
Fibromyalgia sufferers may also take Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM) in addition to amino acids. MSM is usually found in natural, uncooked fruits and vegetables. MSM is great for reducing pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints. Other natural remedies include taking Vitamin D, cayenne pepper, and Niacin. Each of these remedies helps to increase muscle and bone strength, and also relieves pain, and reduces headaches.
Does it Work
There is a lack of supporting medical evidence to suggest that taking amino acids can cure fibryomyalgia. This may be due to the fact that standard medical research facilities do not have a vested interest in exploring this alternative remedy. However, it may also mean that amino acids simply don't work as a cure for fibryomyalgia. Many of those who claim that they do are organizations selling amino acid supplements, so any claims that the proteins work as a cure should be carefully evaluated to determine their legitimacy.
Should You Use Natural Remedies
Natural remedies can provide a great treatment method since the risk of side effects are usually lower. However, there may be less supporting evidence in the medical community related to the effectiveness of natural remedies. Make sure you carefully consider all of your options and speak to your treating physician before making any treatment choices.
