HOLISTIC HEALTH NOTEBOOK

I write a lot about chronic pain in this column because it is such a common problem. As we age, the aches and pains increase. Is that a natural part of aging? I don’t like to think so but perhaps that is just because I am approaching the later years of life. I don’t want to be wracked with pain either.

Fibromyalgia, however, is quite a different story. Fibro does not target senior citizens; it targets younger people, and often hard-working, Type A personality people, so the disability the constant pain inflicts is particularly difficult to deal with. Fortunately, there is so much that can be done to deal with fibro from a natural perspective. If you were to consult with me about your fibro, here is what I would tell you to do:

1. Learn your allergies (environmental and food) and avoid those triggers. The best way to do is through the Alcat test (www.alcat.com). It is expensive but incredibly valuable in learning what triggers your symptoms.

2. After you get the results of the Alcat test, we will construct a four-day rotation diet and strategies for avoiding your environmental triggers, if possible. The fourday rotation diet is difficult to manage at first but you get accustomed to it. I find almost universal benefits from following it.

3. We may do a detox pro-

gram, based on supporting your own Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III detox pathways. Fibro patients are often inefficient in eliminating toxins which then build up in cells, creating pain. A welldesigned detox program is very important (emphasis on well designed).

4. Supplementation is helpful. For example, I recommend a breakfast drink that is designed specifically for detoxification and energy enhancement for fibro patients. Magnesium, malic acid, and powerful antioxidants like raw cacao can make a huge difference. If you are having trouble sleeping, which is common with fibro patients, you can use melatonin or other natural sleep aids.

5. Drink lots of water. Water is essential to keeping the system clear. How much? One ounce for every two pounds of body weight.

What can you expect from this program? Typically, people start noticing a difference within the first week and continue to see benefits the longer they stay on the program. 

— Ms. Simontacchi is a certified lifestyle educator at the offices of Dr. Alan Gruning in Fort Myers. She owns the Island Nutrition Center on Sanibel.