Fibromyalgia patients have lower levels of vitamin D, says analysis of the evidence

Vitamin D levels of people with fibromyalgia tend to be lower than those of people without the chronic pain condition, says an analysis of the data published in the Korean Journal of Pain. The findings add to the growing body of evidence that suggests that vitamin D deficiency is linked to fibromyalgia.

Experts reviewed 12 studies that met strict criteria. Within the studies, 851 people with fibromyalgia were compared to 862 people without fibromyalgia.

“Our meta-analysis showed that vitamin D serum levels of patients with fibromyalgia was significantly lower than that of control group,” the experts outline.

The implications are that people with fibromyalgia should consider taking a vitamin D supplement, ensure they spend time outside in order for their skin to produce the vitamin naturally, and eat foods high in vitamin D such as fatty fish (tuna, mackerel and salmon), cheese and egg yolks.

Click here to read the NHS advice about vitamin D supplements.

Click here to read the original research.

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