Fibromyalgia creates weakness and muscle pain, it can cause a slowing of the brain’s cognitive functions, resulting in what is commonly called “fibro fog”, and has countless other symptoms which render the sufferer almost incapacitated at times.
There are myriad medicines available to address the pain of fibromyalgia and others which are prescribed to help alleviate the depression that is so often accompanies this disease. However, there are also natural remedies that can be used to address the same symptoms without loading the body with many artificial drugs.
Magnesium – A Critical Mineral
Magnesium, a mineral which is critical to good health, is also widely taken as a supplement to treat pain. While many with fibromyalgia are helped by taking a magnesium supplement, the fact remains that not everyone who has FMS and pain are also deficient in magnesium. What is of interest is that research indicates that by taking adequate doses of magnesium together with malic acid over an extended period of time, fibromyalgia patients can significantly reduce the muscle and soft tissue pain associated with fibromyalgia.
Magnesium and ATP Production – Help for the Brain
Magnesium and malic acid are both key parts in the production and transportation of energy at a cellular level. Evidence suggests that muscle tissue breakdown associated with fibromyalgia is a result of the lack of oxygen to the muscles. Magnesium activates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is produced within the mitochondria. Nearly 20% of ATP production takes place in the brain, so diminished levels of magnesium can affect the cognitive functions of the brain.
It is also needed in the production of serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter connected to the perception of pain. People with fibromyalgia have significantly lower levels of serotonin. Magnesium is one of many co-factors needed to release and bind serotonin in the brain, creating a balanced mental function.
Malic Acid and What It Does
Malic acid is organic – the substance is found in fruits and plants. It too is involved in the production of energy in the body and is implicated in controlling mitochrondrial energy production at a cellular level. Malic acid provides stamina and endurance in the muscle cells. It is particularly useful in the blocking of aluminum toxicity, which is thought to be one contributor to fibromyalgia.
A Powerful Combo
Clinical tests are indicating more and more that malic acid is a great asset in the treatment of symptoms associated with fibromyalgia and chronic pain. The Journal of Nutritional Medicine published a study done with patients aged 32-60 who took a dosage of 200-2400mg of malic acid with 300-600mg of magnesium for four to eight weeks. The participants reported significant pain relief within 48 hours of taking the minerals.
The good news is that there is hope for those suffering with chronic pain and fibro fog. By supplying the body with the nutrients it needs, it can repair and rebuild itself.