Scientists from Sapienza University in Italy found that a grain-free diet may be effective in combating fibromyalgia. This diet helps reduce muscle and joint pain and relieve fatigue. In this respect reports Health News.
Fibromyalgia is a long-term disease accompanied by pain, severe fatigue and sleep problems.
20 postmenopausal women diagnosed with fibromyalgia participated in the study. It was stated that the subjects did not have celiac disease (intolerance to grains). In celiac disease, gluten (the protein component of grains) damages the lining of the small intestine.
Participants went through three phases of the experiment. First, they followed a completely grain-free (gluten-free) diet for six months. The subjects then consumed gluten-containing foods for three months. The final phase involved returning to a gluten-free diet for another six months.
Scientists found that after completing the first phase, participants experienced a 24% reduction in the intensity of pain in muscles and joints. Other symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as fatigue and insomnia, were 36% less severe. However, after reintroducing gluten-containing foods, the pain, insomnia, and fatigue returned. At the end of the third phase, participants noted that their health had improved again.
There were no significant changes in body mass index (BMI) across the three phases. This suggests that the reduction in fibromyalgia symptoms is due to changes in diet rather than weight loss. Scientists hope further research will reveal whether a gluten-free diet can improve fibromyalgia in men.
Previously uploaded The danger of eating baked goods for the brain.