Fibromyalgia and the vitamin D connection

2014-01-31 16:21:35

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that brings about great debility and suffering for those that must deal with it. It is a diagnosis of exclusion that presents with widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, poor memory and mood issues. There is much that natural medicine can offer. A recently published randomized control trial, the first in focused on fibromyalgia looked at the effect Vitamin D has on fibromyalgia suffers. ⁽¹⁾ It found that the individuals in the treatment group that received Vitamin D supplementation reported a marked reduction of pain when compared to the control group that received placebo. Other studies albeit with less strength have also supported the notion of inadequate vitamin d status in this group of individuals. ^{(2, 3)} It appears that the benefit increases as the blood levels of vitamin D reach more optimal levels. ⁽²⁾ As the studies continue to pile up in the area of vitamin d research, it is becoming more apparent that adequate levels are critical for so many areas of health. It is unfortunate that the routine measurement of vitamin d status is no longer covered by OHIP as so many are going undiagnosed with low levels. A minimum of 1000IU/day is needed to maintain an adequate level of vitamin D in the blood; ⁽⁴⁾ more is likely needed in those with very low levels. Best to see your health care practitioner, get your levels tested and supplement accordingly.