Is Fibromyalgia related to gut issues?
Just took a quick look at this video about Fibromyalgia by Dr Robinson, a US Chiropractic Dr who treats a lot of patients with chronic pain.
He believes Fibromyalgia may occur as a result of inflammation in the body, caused by toxicity, with mercury or viral/fungal infections and/or food sensitivities, e.g. gluten sensitivity and possibly a hormonal response to physical or emotional trauma.
He states that “80% of the immune system begins in the gut”, presumably quoting findings from a 2009 article from ‘Seminars in Immunology’ which states: “IgA is the most abundant immunoglobulin isotype produced in the body (around 3 g/day) and it is estimated that around 80% of all IgA-antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) reside in the gut mucosa.”
Although, I’m not sure if the claim of 80% is accurate, I do know that there is a large network of lymph tissue referred to as GALT (gut associated lymphoid tissue) found in the gut which stores immune cells, such as T and B lymphocytes, that defend against unwanted cells such as viruses and cancer cells, so supporting lymphatic drainage is essential to our wellbeing.
Hence, Dr Robinson’s treatment plan is multifaceted. He starts with diet, removing potential toxins e.g. gluten and prescribes magnesium supplements and anti-inflammatory herbs, particularly ginger, turmeric and Japanese knotweed. He also recommends a detox and exercise program.
I would suggest that these lifestyle changes would benefit everyone, even those of us lucky enough to be free from chronic inflammatory conditions. I’d also add that we need to find ways to cope with stress, get plenty of rest and supplement our diets with Omega 3 fats (e.g. fish oils), natural probiotics (e.g. kombucha/fermented veggies) and bone broth, which would limit inflammation in our bodies and allow our immunity to thrive.
