Dietary And Lifestyle Changes For Fibromyalgia

Keep An Eye On Sleep Quality

Since fatigue is a major symptom of fibromyalgia, sleep plays a vital role in managing the condition. Those with this condition need to put more emphasis on their sleep! This means developing and maintaining a healthy sleep hygiene routine. A healthy routine looks like keeping the bedroom only for sleep and not for doing work or watching television. It also means shutting off electronics at least an hour or two before bed.

Many also have routines like drinking herbal tea and going through a relaxing skincare routine before turning in for the night. Of course, brushing teeth is also important! Keeping the bedroom cool also helps with sleep, and the choice of sheets can have an impact as well. Getting at least 8 hours of sleep a night is ideal.

Go to bed at night and wake up each morning at the same time! A good bedtime routine signals the body to get ready to sleep at the same time. Waking up at the same time in the morning also helps the body wake up naturally. Doing both reduces fatigue and keeps the body running efficiently. It also lowers stress levels!

Limit Caffeine Consumption

Caffeine is a controversial topic when it comes to dealing with fibromyalgia. Many pain medications contain some caffeine, since they help boost their effectiveness. However, drinking too much caffeine and then stopping will result in withdrawal. The most common symptom of this is a severe headache. No one needs that, least of all someone with fibromyalgia!

Additionally, caffeine can interfere with sleep quantity and quality. These are the major reasons why those with fibromyalgia must limit how much caffeine they drink. Of course, reducing caffeine intake over time is the best for avoiding withdrawal. Even if it takes a while, working down to just one cup of coffee or tea with caffeine a day is ideal. This cup should be in the morning so it doesn't interfere with sleep.