Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome characterized by diffuse pain in the muscles and soft tissues, sensitivity to pressure at specific points (tender points), as well as fatigue, sleep disturbance, and often accompanying anxiety-depressive symptoms. Although fibromyalgia is not a degenerative or inflammatory disease of the joints or muscles, it is classified as a severe disease because chronic pain and exhaustion seriously impair the quality of life of those affected. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown; it is believed that there is a disturbance in the way the brain processes pain signals (increased processing), and triggers can be stress, trauma, infections, or another disease.
Symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
- Generalized pain and tenderness: the pain is often described as dull, persistent, and present on both sides of the body and above and below the waist. Certain points are particularly sensitive (neck, shoulders, elbows, hips, knees).
- Fatigue: similar to chronic fatigue syndrome – the person wakes up unrefreshed and exhausted, regardless of the length of sleep.
- Sleep disturbance: difficulty falling asleep, shallow sleep, frequent awakenings. Restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea often occurs.
- Cognitive difficulties: the so-called “fibro fog” – problems with concentration, memory, finding words.
- Accompanying symptoms: headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, painful menstruation, mood swings, anxiety, and depression are common companions.
Although fibromyalgia is not a classic inflammatory disease, research indicates the presence of elevated cytokines and some markers of inflammation in some sufferers, suggesting that chronic low-grade inflammation may contribute to the symptoms. Constant pain itself can activate the body's stress response and lead to oxidative stress. In addition, many patients with fibromyalgia have overlapping syndromes such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or interstitial cystitis, which have elements of inflammation. Oxidative stress may be increased due to disturbed sleep and constant pain – the body spends more antioxidants in the fight against stress. Immune imbalance is not as central as in autoimmune diseases, but it seems that the immune system of fibromyalgia patients reacts hypersensitively to stressors.
Natural support for the body
Managing fibromyalgia requires a multidisciplinary approach, and diet can be one of the pillars of symptom relief. Spelt can help indirectly on several fronts. First, spelt helps to provide stable energy during the day (which is important against fatigue) and to improve sleep, providing tryptophan and other amino acids that promote the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin – hormones important for good mood and sleep.
It is rich in magnesium, which is a natural muscle relaxant; sufficient magnesium intake can reduce muscle tension and the occurrence of cramps, which can alleviate pain in fibromyalgia. The antioxidant properties of spelt contribute to reducing oxidative stress, which can worsen the feeling of pain. Vitamins C and E, together with selenium, work synergistically to neutralize free radicals and potentially reduce inflammatory signaling in the body. This may result in a lower frequency of “fluctuations” in the intensity of symptoms.
Many fibromyalgia sufferers have a sensitive digestive system; spelt is a grain that is easier to digest than wheat, its gluten is more soluble, and it is rich in soluble fiber, so it causes less bloating and does not irritate the intestines like some other grains. Improving bowel function (especially if there is accompanying irritable bowel syndrome) also leads to better nutrient absorption and general well-being.
Also, a healthy intestinal flora affects the reduction of global inflammation – spelt fiber feeds good bacteria, so more beneficial fatty acids (such as butyrate) are created, which have an anti-inflammatory effect throughout the body. Spelt also contains certain minerals such as zinc and manganese, which are cofactors in the synthesis of enzymes for tissue healing and regeneration, which can contribute to the recovery of micro-injuries in muscles or tendons.
Overall, spelt acts as a natural balance: it provides nutrients for energy, reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, supports digestion, and helps relax muscles. In the long term, including spelt in the diet can lead to less pain intensity, better sleep, and more energy in people with fibromyalgia, especially when it is part of an overall healthy lifestyle (moderate physical activity, relaxation techniques, adequate medical therapy).