Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency is very common. Not only is our daily intake low, but we eat a diet which increases the demand for magnesium and live a lifestyle that increases magnesium loss. There is an excellent chance that a person with fibromyalgia has a magnesium deficiency and there is more and more research into this. If you are considering taking magnesium, look for a form that allows to you start with a low amount, and then slowly increase. Unabsorbed magnesium can cause a laxative effect, so you need to monitor how much you can tolerate. The RDA for magnesium is 400mg, however if this amount helps any of your symptoms, then you may be helped by taking more than that.  Magnesium is often better absorbed when taken with food.  Also, you can absorb more magnesium, if you take it in small doses, such as some with each meal.  Magnesium & Malic Acid:  evidence suggests that malic acid can help ease discomfort caused by muscle and tissue hypoxia. Studies in which FM patients took a combination of magnesium and malic acid found that the combo resulted in significant pain reduction.

Not all forms are the same.  Magnesium oxide is one of the most common, but is poorly absorbed. Other forms, such as citrate, chloride, aspartate, are said to be better absorbed. It is beneficial to use a time released version letting a steady source into your system. If one brand of magnesium does not work for you, or if you experience a side effect, consider switching to a different brand.  Many people have found that liquid forms of magnesium help when pills do not.  This is probably due to increased absorption.

Also note that B vitamins are necessary for proper utilization of magnesium.  Some people with fibromyalgia might have B vitamin deficiencies as well, especially B12.  So some people with fibromyalgia might benefit from B vitamin supplementation along with the Magnesium.

Note:  In time-release, Pro-Mag is a good choice as it doesn’t have additives.   Another good alternative is Mag-Tab.  It contains magnesium lactate, and has been reported by some people to be even better absorbed than the magnesium chloride, possibly because it is released over a longer period of time.  I’m am currently looking more into the liquid form. 

Vitamin D3
A deficiency of this vitamin may be one the causes fibromyalgia. Vitamin D3 functions as a hormone and works throughout the body, affecting muscles, tissues, nerves, joints and even the brain. In recent years, scientists have begun to recognize the link between low vitamin D and chronic pain.

Note:  I take this daily in gel capsule. 

5-HTP – The amino acid 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is used by the body to increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating sleep cycles, pain perception, mood and the immune system. Three clinical trials have demonstrated that 5-HTP supplementation can support improvement of muscle aches, morning stiffness, anxiety and fatigue.

MSM – Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM) is an organic sulfur-containing compound and is a crucial component of the body’s connective tissues. Among its many benefits, MSM has been found to have antioxidant properties. It promotes a healthy inflammatory response in joint tissue that can result in more joint flexibility.

Turmeric/ Curcumin – Curcumin is the primary component of turmeric and is what gives the spice its rich yellow color. Curcumin is widely recognized as being a powerful supporter of the body’s natural mechanisms for controlling the inflammatory response. Some have called curcumin “nature’s version of an NSAID.” A recent study comparing the benefits of the prescription NSAID celecoxib (Celebrex®) versus the ancient herbal remedies curcumin & boswellia concluded that results with the herbal combination were superior.

Note:  I take just starting taking Tumeric in capsule form – we’ll see!

Boswellin – Boswellin (Boswellia serrata), also known as Indian frankincense, has been used in the Ayurvedic medicine tradition for hundreds of years to support a healthy inflammation response. Although not specifically tested on fibromyalgia patients, Boswellia has been found to support positive effects in subjects with a number of chronic inflammatory complaints that often overlap with FM.

White Willow Bark – The bark of the white willow tree contains salicin, which converts to salicylic acid in the body. Salicin is a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and is thought to be responsible for the ability of white willow bark to support natural reduction of muscle discomfort and a healthy inflammatory response.

Note:  I take just starting taking White Willow Bark in liquid form – dripped into my morning water. Seems like you have to take a lot, but we’ll see!

Glucosamine and Chondroitin – Glucosamine sulfate is a naturally occurring chemical found in cartilage cells and in the fluid that surrounds joints. The body uses it to produce a variety of other chemicals that are involved in building tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the thick fluid that surrounds joints. Chondroitin is an amino acid found inside joint cartilage that keeps joints lubricated by attracting and absorbing water. Many who use glucosamine and chondroitin find that the combo helps to reduce joint and muscle discomfort, promote improved joint strength and range of motion, and support a healthy inflammatory response

Note:  I was taking this until an Orthopedic I know suggested it was a waste.  She recommended Turmeric.  But I am thinking about adding it back in.

Cayenne
This herb contains Capsaicin which reduces the severity of pain from the nerves. It is considered one of the best herbal remedies for fibromyalgia. When used with menthol, it produces an icy hot treatment. For muscle pain relief, it can be made into an ointment and applied onto the affected area. Oddly, Cayenne is a nightshade so theoretically shouldn’t be taken internally, but good for ointment.