Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Role of Obesity and Nutrients

Abstract

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a devastating musculoskeletal disorder with characteristic symptoms of fatigue, chronic pain, headache, anxiety, morning stiffness, and memory loss that ultimately affects the quality of life. Although the clear pathogenesis of FMS is unknown, multiple lines of evidence propose a link between obesity, diet, nutritional status, and FMS. Several studies have reported that overweight and obese people have higher incidence of FMS, and weight reduction in these patients seems to be effective in improving symptoms. Vegetarian and vegan diets were reported to have beneficial effects on FMS due to the high amounts of antioxidants consumed. Nutritional deficiencies of magnesium, iron, iodine, selenium, thiamine, and manganese have been described, but there are no detailed studies available that show a direct relationship between FMS and deficiencies of these micronutrients. Extremely limited data is available about the nutritional supplements in FMS which indicates that more studies are needed to determine the types of nutritional supplements that could help reduce the symptoms of FMS. In conclusion, physical exercise, weight control, and dietary supplements, including antioxidants and micronutrients, are important in improving FMS patients’ quality of life.