Have you been feeling widespread pain and aching joints? Do you sometimes feel so tired that just thinking about doing something is exhausting? Have you been feeling like this for a couple of months already? If you’re answering yes to these questions, you might be suffering from fibromyalgia. And if your doctor confirms that indeed you have fibromyalgia, flax seed oil, along with a healthy diet can help you combat the condition.
Overview of Fibromyalgia
The first step in overcoming the condition is learning all about it. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that is characterized by widespread pain, tenderness and soreness in ligaments, joints and tendons, muscle aches, ever-present fatigue and sleeping disorders. Sometimes, people with this disease cannot even perform ordinary tasks for any prolonged period of time.
Fibromyalgia, a condition that generally effects people as they get older with the average age sitting at around 45. It effects many more women than men and around 3 to 6% of the American population are suffering from it. The cause of this chronic syndrome is still unknown, and treatment is usually directed at alleviating pain and overcoming stress and sleeping problems.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
As mentioned earlier, painful joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments are the number one symptoms of this illness. Pain is usually more acute in some points in the neck, hips, back, legs and arms. Usually, fibromyalgia sufferers find it difficult to have a restful sleep, that is why they feel so tired all the time. Some also experience depression, migraine, jaw aches, and even poor memory and concentration.
Components of Flax Seed Oil
In the past, flax seed oil has been used in many things, such as textile manufacturing and painting, but not as a food ingredient or supplement. However, experts have discovered that flax seed oil is a good source of Alpha Linolenic-Acid, an important component of Omega 3. The body then converts this into prostaglandins, which help to relieve inflammation associated with fibromyalgia.
Keep reading for more benefits about flax seeds and to sign up for the free fibromyalgia newsletter that has many more suggestions for natural ways to relieve symptoms.
They have also discovered that flax seed oil contains other essential fatty acids, such as Omega 6 and Omega 9. These fatty acids are considered essential because they are the major components of our cell membranes. Moreover, our body cannot manufacture these essential fatty acids. We need to include these fatty acids in the food we eat so that we do not develop a deficiency.
Aside from Omega 3, flax seed oil is also a good source of lignan, which is an effective anti-oxidant. Lignans can be found in animals and plants. Flax seed is one of the best sources of lignans among plants. This chemical compound is effective in boosting energy and in helping strengthen the immune system.
Role of Flax Seed Oil in Helping With Fibromyalgia
Since there is currently no known cure for fibromyalgia, the best approach is to manage the symptoms. This is where the flax seed oil comes in as it targets the inflammation of your joints and tendons and helps lessen swelling and soreness.
For people who have fibromyalgia flax seed oil can be added to your diet everyday to help minimize inflammation. You can take it directly, or use the oil as salad dressing.