Proof that a gluten-free diet for fibromyalgia really works

Several studies have shown that a gluten-free diet can work for fibromyalgia patients and provide relief from common symptoms. According to the research, it is important to note that the gluten-free (GF) diet may help both fibromyalgia (FM) patients with and without celiac disease. Before you start a new diet, you should consult a doctor, but first consider the following studies.

Gluten-free diet for fibromyalgia helps non-celiac gluten sensitivity

A study published in Rheumatology International reveals that fibromyalgia patients who have not been diagnosed with celiac disease may still benefit from going on the gluten-free diet. Researchers point out that it is possible for these patients to have non-celiac gluten sensitivity. This means that the celiac disease tests come back negative, but the patients are still reacting to gluten.

According to the researchers, when fibromyalgia patients adhered to the gluten-free diet, they were able to reduce or eliminate many FM symptoms. They point out that 90 patients out of the 246 who participated in the study responded well to the gluten-free diet. All of these patients reported a reduction in pain, and some were able to return to work and normal life. In addition, the patients noted that their fatigue, depression, gastrointestinal symptoms and migraines improved on the gluten-free diet.

Gluten-free diet for fibromyalgia and celiac disease

It is possible to have both fibromyalgia and celiac disease. A study published in BMC Gastroenterology reveals that patients who have fibromyalgia and celiac disease benefit from the gluten-free diet. After one year of following the gluten-free diet, the patients reported an improvement in the quality of their lives and a reduction in fibromyalgia symptoms.

The patients had fewer tender points and better scores on the health assessment questionnaire. In addition, both their celiac disease, fibromyalgia pain and other symptoms decreased. Furthermore, they were able to reduce the number of prescribed drugs they took.

Should you try the gluten-free diet for fibromyalgia?

It is important to consider the diet advice from experts about fibromyalgia. Several studies have shown that the gluten-free diet can help patients with this medical condition. However, each case is unique, so you have to consult your doctor before making significant diet changes.

If you have fibromyalgia, you may want to consider being tested for celiac disease. Some of the main symptoms of celiac disease are abdominal pain and gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, gas, indigestion and nausea. You may also experience cramps, itchy rashes, weight loss, fatigue and many other symptoms.

The gluten-free diet requires you to eliminate all wheat, barley and rye products. Gluten is a protein, and it can appear as an ingredient in many products. In addition, cross-contamination is a big issue, so many products can be contaminated with gluten and not safe on this diet. If you decide to follow this diet, you must start by reading labels carefully.