Low levels of vitamin D3 may be associated with fibromyalgia
Women with reduced vitamin D levels may be more likely to experience fibromyalgia and pain than women with normal vitamin D levels, a research group reports in a top academic journal.
A total of 80 women aged on average 38 years old with “non-specific musculoskeletal symptoms” were included in the study. Their blood levels of vitamin D were recorded. Women with low vitamin D levels:
- Experienced higher pain scores;
- Were more likely to have fibromyalgia;
- Had more muscle weakness;
- Were more sensitive to pain;
- Were no more likely to have depression or a lower quality of life.
“Our study results suggest that patients with low [vitamin D] levels may more frequently experience fibromyalgia and pain than healthy individuals,” the research group highlights.
Although more research is needed to show if supplementing with vitamin D could improve blood levels of the vitamin and subsequently have beneficial effects on pain, depression, and quality of life of people with fibromyalgia, obtaining more vitamin D through sunlight and diet could be a good starting point for anyone concerned.
Foodie sources of vitamin D
- Fatty fish (salmon, tuna and mackerel)
- Cheese
- Egg yolks
- Fortified foods (dairy products and orange juice)
Click here to read the original research.
Want to know more about fibromyalgia? We’ve written a LOT about this, click here for more.
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