People who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia often speak of how debilitating the disease is because of joint pain and fatigue. There is also muscle pain that spreads throughout the body. These symptoms also lead to depression. Creatine, which is popular among bodybuilders to build strength, has been found to help build strength in those who suffer with fibromyalgia, according to a new study released by researchers in Brazil. Though it does help with the strength and weakness, the other symptoms, such as fatigue and depression are not affected by the supplement. Still, to have more strength is a step in the right direction for those who suffer from this mysterious disease, which will allow them to be more active in their day to day lives.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every fifty people in the United States alone suffers from fibromyalgia. It is most often diagnosed in middle age women, and is thought to be brought on by extreme stress. There are three drugs used in treatment that are FDA approved – Cymbalta and Savella, which are antidepressants, and Lyrica, which is prescribed for nerve pain. Doctors are not happy with these drugs, however, because they are not extremely effective, and the side effects often outweigh the benefits.
Previously conducted research concluded that fibromyalgia patients had lower creatine levels in the tissues of the brain and muscles. Creatine is a chemical that is imperative for cells to produce energy. They feel the lack of creatine may be the reason for neurological issues, as well as weakness.
Recommending creatine supplements to help build strength in patients is a good idea, but doctors also stress that regular exercise is important for all who suffer from fibromyalgia. Exercise is the most important thing that fibromyalgia patients can do for themselves for relief, along with early diagnosis. Researchers are scrambling to come up with new treatments, and many studies are being conducted. If you have been diagnosed, speak with your doctor about adding creatine as a supplement to your treatment.
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