This study showed that a short course of sublingual vitamin B12, 1000 mcg daily, can significantly improve the severity of FM as well as the anxiety score of FM patients.
A few (but limited) studies suggest that low B12 levels may be involved in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. If so, it's possible that they are, at least in part, responsible for the low energy levels typical of both conditions.
Findings from several studies have indicated that vitamin B12 may be a possible treatment for pain in fibromyalgia. The aim of the proposed study is to evaluate whether vitamin B12 decreases pain sensitivity and the experience of pain (ie, hyperalgesia and allodynia) in women with fibromyalgia.
However, what is interesting is how B12 is beneficial in so many patients with fatigue, including those suffering with CFS, and this suggests that there is a common mechanism of chronic fatigue which B12 is effective at alleviating, regardless of the cause of the fatigue.
It may take a few weeks before your vitamin B12 levels and symptoms (such as extreme tiredness or lack of energy) start to improve.
extreme tiredness (fatigue) lack of energy (lethargy) breathlessness. feeling faint.
Fibromyalgia is associated with low levels of many vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins like vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. Many people are also deficient in vitamins A, C, E, and K. Many dietitians recommend getting all your vitamins and minerals through your diet.
When choosing a supplement, look for either methylcobalamin or methyl B12. Studies have found that oral, intravenous, and intramuscular administration provide the same results. Treatment for fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, studies noted clinical benefits using between 1.5 and 6 mg per day.
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and milnacipran (Savella) may help ease the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Your doctor may prescribe amitriptyline or the muscle relaxant cyclobenzaprine to help promote sleep.
The reality is that hGH deficiency may be found in about 1/3 of all fibromyalgia patients,² which may be 1 of the most prevalent factors affecting inadequate patient outcomes for those taking medications to manage their FM.
People with fibromyalgia are more likely than others to have low magnesium, and many doctors advise fibromyalgia patients to take this supplement.
Brain imaging studies and other research have uncovered evidence of altered signaling in neural pathways that transmit and receive pain in people with fibromyalgia. These changes may also contribute to the fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive problems that many people with the disorder experience.
While the recommended daily amount of vitamin B-12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms, higher doses have been found to be safe. Your body absorbs only as much as it needs, and any excess passes through your urine. High doses of vitamin B-12, such as those used to treat a deficiency, might cause: Headache.
Take 1000-5000mcg daily of the active forms of B12 (methyl-cobalamin and adenysl-cobalamin) for 1 month and then re-assess symptoms. Vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin B6 work together with B12, supplementing these at the same time often gives better results.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend a multivitamin that includes antioxidant vitamins A, C, D, E, and the B vitamins, as well as calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc to ease symptoms. Coenzyme Q10. This antioxidant, used to convert food into energy, has shown some promise in treating fibromyalgia symptoms.
Exercise Regularly
Regular, low-intensity exercise, such as walking or warm-water exercise, is one of the best treatments for fibromyalgia. It helps decrease pain and stiffness, reduce stress, and may increase your sense of control over fibromyalgia. You may also sleep better.
A group of foods classified as omega-3 fatty acids have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines, tuna, bass, and swordfish are good sources of omega-3s. Dark green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are also good options. Eat more fiber.
Caffeine, heavy meals, and alcohol should be avoided before bedtime. Individuals should go to bed around the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, even on weekends or after a sleepless night. Exposure to light should be minimized before bedtime.
The tests used to diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency are a complete blood count (CBC) and a vitamin B12 blood test level. A person is diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency if the amount of vitamin B12 in their blood is less than 150 per mL.
While B12 doesn't directly provide energy, it does give the body the tools it needs to convert food molecules into energy. Getting the recommended daily amount of B12 can therefore help ensure that the body is able to make the energy it needs to do everything you need it to do.