Digestive Wellness: Strengthen the Immune System and Prevent Disease Through Healthy Digestion, Fourth Edition (139 page)

Try arginine.
People with fibromyalgia have been shown to have lower levels of arginine than other people. Take 500 to 1,000 mg or a mixed free amino acid supplement.

Try 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP).
People with fibromyalgia have lower tryptophan levels than controls. Studies have shown 5-HTP to be of benefit in
fibromyalgia. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps us sleep and prevents depression. Passionflower, an herb with high levels of tryptophan, has been used historically for depression, anxiety, and insomnia, all of which are symptoms of fibromyalgia. Tryptophan is also found in cashews, cheddar cheese, eggs, halibut, peanuts, salmon, sardines, shrimp, turkey, and tuna. Our body produces it when we eat starchy foods. Take 200 to 600 mg daily of 5-HTP. Doses can be divided between morning and bedtime.

Try capsaicin (cayenne pepper cream).
The prescription drug capsaicin was used in a study of 45 people with fibromyalgia. It was found to improve grip strength and reduce pain over a two-week period. Capsaicin cream burns temporarily, but this diminishes over time.

Try S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe).
A recent study of 47 people with fibromyalgia showed that injections and oral supplementation of SAMe significantly reduced muscle tenderness and the number of tender points, lowered pain severity, and benefited depression and anxiety. SAMe is produced in our bodies from methionine. It is the active methylating agent for many enzyme reactions throughout the body, especially in the brain. It is probably the sulfur that is needed. People with fibromyalgia can probably make this conversion, so oral methionine may be useful clinically (1,000 to 2,000 mg). Other sulfur-containing supplements are dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), taurine, glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate, and reduced glutathione. In the study, dosages of SAMe were 200 mg given daily as intramuscular injection, plus 400 mg taken orally twice daily.

Try Meyer’s cocktail.
IV nutrients, given by a physician, can quickly help revitalize your nutrient status. Nutrients can be absorbed and used at higher concentrations. Meyer’s cocktail is a combination of magnesium, calcium, vitamins B
₁₂
and B
₆
, pantothenic acid, and vitamin C. It has been used successfully in people with a variety of ailments.

Try traditional Chinese medicine.
Acupuncture has been established as giving benefit to people with fibromyalgia. A 2010 multicentered study of 186 people with fibromyalgia reported that 65 percent of those who received acupuncture combined with cupping and Western medicine had benefits. This produced better effects than either just acupuncture with cupping or use of Western medicine alone. A 2010 review study of 1,516 people with fibromyalgia (from 25 combined studies) reports that acupuncture reduced the number of tender points and reduced pain scores when compared with conventional medications. When combined with cupping, results improved for pain reduction and improving depression scores. On the other hand, a Cochrane Review in 2009 reported that
there was no change in pain intensity when compared to a placebo. Acupuncture and cupping may or may not be of benefit to you but have a low risk and possible benefits that make it worth trying.

Try malic acid.
Malic acid, found in apples, is important in energy production at a cellular level. Several physicians have found malic acid supplementation reduces fatigue and the pain of fibromyalgia. It also helps alkalize. Take 6 to 12 tablets of 300 mg malic acid–magnesium hydroxide daily, decreasing dosage over time.

Take quercetin.
Quercetin is the most effective bioflavonoid in its anti-inflammatory effects, and it can be used to reduce pain and inflammatory responses and control allergies. Take 500 to 1,000 mg three to four times daily.

Take glucosamine sulfate.
Glucosamine sulfate is used therapeutically to help repair cartilage, reduce swelling and inflammation, and restore joint function, with no reported side effects. Take 500 mg two to four times daily.

Try digestive enzymes.
Take one to two tablets or capsules with meals.

Supplement with probiotics.
Use of supplemental beneficial bacteria can help reestablish the normal microbial balance in your intestinal tract. The supplement you purchase may have additional microbes as well. Take as directed on label as products vary. Mix powdered supplement with a cool beverage.