Evidence from several studies has indicated that low serotonin levels may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia.   

It is believed that serotonin abnormalities could be responsible for depression and insomnia—symptoms that many fibromyalgia patients suffer from.  Because 5-HTP could raise low serotonin levels, it may be helpful in alleviating such symptoms. 

Although no one knows exactly why 5-HTP effectively improves fibromyalgia symptoms, researchers believe that low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin may be involved in symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, as mentioned above.  Serotonin is believed to mediate slow-wave (deep) sleep, as well as influence how pain is perceived by the body and mind. 

Leading sleep and fibromyalgia experts H. Moldofsky and J.J. Warsh theorize that primary fibromyalgia may result from a deficiency of circulating tryptophan, an amino acid.  This lack of tryptophan in turn restricts serotonin and interferes with what is known as deep sleep. The researchers also reported that the higher the concentration of unbound tryptophan in the plasma of FMS patients, the more profound their symptoms. (1)

Additionally, 5-HTP is the intermediate between tryptophan and serotonin and it is readily absorbed and crosses the blood-brain barrier.  It is also promoted for depression. (2)

Even though the cause of depression varies widely from one person to the next, most people with depression have low serotonin levels. Whether low levels of serotonin cause depression or depression causes serotonin levels to fall is not yet clear but what is certain is that by raising serotonin levels depression can often be alleviated.

A 90-day study of the effects of 5-HTP on 50 fibromyalgia patients published in The Journal of International Medical Research; 1992; 20:182 – 189 concluded that a “good” or “fair” clinical improvement occurred in 50 per cent of the patients. These patients ranged in age from 18 to 65. When clinical variables such as tender point soreness, anxiety, pain intensity, quality of sleep and fatigue were compared with baseline results, researchers concluded that all symptoms had been  improved after 90 days of taking 100 milligrams of 5-HTP three times daily.

Low levels of serotonin in the brain can contribute to the development of depression.  Some studies indicate that 5-HTP may be as effective as certain antidepressant drugs in treating individuals with mild to moderate depression. Such individuals have shown improvements in mood, anxiety, insomnia, and physical symptoms.

1.  H. Moldofsky and J.J. Warsh; Pain; 1978; 5:65 71;  
2.  Birdsall, Altern Med Rev 8/98;3:271.

Many fibromyalgia sufferers have stated that the combination of magnesium and malic acid have been helpful for their symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.

Magnesium Malate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium that provides the benefits of this mineral, along with the benefits of malic acid, a nutrient found to contribute to the process of transforming food into ATP, the body’s energy source.

Magnesium Malate and Fibromyalgia

While the cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, some leading fibromyalgia researchers believe that there is a malfunction in the body’s ability to manufacture energy. The muscles burn energy faster than it can be produced, which is compounded by a shortage of the nutrients necessary to make the energy. This may cause the muscles to rely too heavily on the inefficient (anaerobic) energy cycle for much of their energy production instead of the more efficient (aerobic) energy cycle. Malic acid plays a key role in the production of energy in the cells; therefore, it is often recommended with magnesium for fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Additionally, some fibromyalgia patients may be magnesium deficient. An article in the Journal of Nutritional Medicine pointed out that many fibromyalgia patients have responded quite favorably to magnesium malate.  This is most likely because magnesium and malic acid are important substances in the manufacture of energy for the human muscle cell.

Furthermore, magnesium is an essential mineral in over 300 enzymatic reactions in metabolism. These reactions include those involved in the Krebs cycle (one of the body’s energy production systems), such as:

• DNA metabolism
• Vital for cell formation
• Activation of B vitamins
• Energy transport and storage
• The breakdown of fatty acids
• Proper nerve function and neurotransmitter activity
• The formation and maintenance of protein, fatty acids, and bone.
• The formation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s energy source.

Recent studies have indicated that those with fibromyalgia tend to have decreased levels of magnesium in comparison to the control groups. [ 1 ] According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Medicine, Abraham et al hypothesized that a magnesium deficiency found in muscles cells could possibly play a role in the development of Fibromyalgia. The group demonstrated that a daily supplement of 300-600 of Magnesium Malate resulted in improvements of symptoms, as well as in the number and severity of tender points.[ 2 ]

During another study conducted in 1995, researchers gave 24 subjects with fibromyalgia a low tablet with 50 mg magnesium and 200 mg malic acid. Scientists measured pain levels through patient self-assessment and the tender point index. Results showed that the low dose, short term trial was not effective to reduce fibromyalgia pain. However, higher doses over an extended duration significantly reduced subjects’ pain.

Furthermore, in a 1992 study 15 fibromyalgia patients received an oral dose of 1200-2400 mg of malate (malic acid) and 300-600 mg of magnesium over a four and 8 week period. Patients reported a reduction in pain across a tender point index (TPI). Six subjects felt an improvement in 48 hours.

 

Low levels of ATP (a cells energy source) are commonly found in those with fibromyalgia and may play a significant role in the origin of fibromyalgia symptoms. [ 3,4 ] Without magnesium, ATP is broken down easily into ADP an inorganic phosphate, which is less efficient than ATP in generating energy for cell metabolism and transport. [ 4 ] This process is important in the brain, which stores 20% of total body ATP. A low level of magnesium leads to a low level of ATP, which may cause a decline in cognitive function.

Both magnesium and malic acid, a non-toxic organic dicarboxylic acid, are known to be involved in ATP synthesis under aerobic and hypoxic conditions, which is the basis of the combined use of malic acid and magnesium in treatment of fibromyalgia. [ 5,6 ]

Along with calcium, magnesium is crucial for adequate muscle metabolism and function. When a magnesium deficiency is present, one may experience excessive muscle tension, which leads to muscle spasms, restlessness, tics, and twitches. Studies have shown that tender points in fibromyalgia muscles are deficient in ATP. Additionally, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy indicates abnormally high-energy phosphate metabolism in exercising fibromyalgia muscles. [ 7 ]

1. Prescott EE, et al. Red blood cell magnesium and fibromyalgia. Scand J Rheum 1992; 94:31.
2. Abraham GE, Glechas ID. Management of fibromyalgia: A rationale for the use of magnesium and malic acid. J Nutr Med 1992; 3:49-59.
3. Heaton FW. Role of Magnesium in Enzyme Systems. In: Sigel H, ed. Metal Ions in Biological Systems.
4. Eisinger J, et al. Glycolysis abnormalities in fibromyalgia. J Am Coll Nutr 1994; 13:144-148.
5. Abraham GE, Glechas ID. Management of fibromyalgia: A rationale for the use of magnesium and malic acid. J Nutr Med 1992;3:49-59.
6. Russell IJ, et al. Treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome with Super Malic: A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, crossover pilot study. J Rheumatol 1995; 22:953-958.
7. Simms RW, et al. 31P – NMR spectroscopy of muscle in fibromyalgia syndrome patients and sedentary controls. Arthritis Rheum 1993;37:794-800.

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 It’s simple, really. First-time customers select and purchase products that you need, then add your free gift option to the cart. We will include your free gift in your shipment. No strings; nothing more to buy. No catch. This is a limited time offer, so get yours now! 

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We believe that our excellent customer service, responsive and knowledgeable staff, discount prices, and of course, our top-of-the-line products are an impressive addition to our frequent special offers. But we think that there is so much more to providing an excellent web store experience for our customers. Here are just a few of the ways we accomplish this: 

• We always have something on sale. Our customers save up to 50% or more off retail prices whenever we put something on sale! Sale items are rotated regularly, and are thoughtfully relevant to the season.

 

• In addition, we have a Customer’s Only Weekly Sale. So be sure to stay on our mailing list to receive notices about unpublicized special offers and coupons. Or, login to your account to see all customer-only offers.

 

• Vitalzym is our featured product that benefits people with fibromyalgia, and others. We are a leading seller of Vitalzym, and always offer the best prices available. What’s more, any order that includes Vitalzym gets FREE SHIPPING on the entire order. You can’t beat that!

 

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While the Fibromyalgia-Store.com website may be new, Energetic Nutrition has offered quality products in our online store since 1996. We sell only the highest quality, all natural nutritional supplements available because we care about our customers.

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Fibromyalgia sufferers may experience pain as a result of hypercoagulation (thickened blood) that can lead to poor circulation due to an excess buildup of fibrin.  Fibrin is a whitish, insoluble protein that makes up a blood clot when promoted by thrombin, a key clot promoter.

In otherwise healthy individuals, one burst of thrombin should generate enough fibrin to form an actual clot in the event of an injury.  However, those with fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions may continuously generate low thrombin levels that can result in hypercoagulation and pain as circulation slows.        

Reducing fibrin with the use of systemic enzyme therapy may be an alternative to taking blood thinning and pain relieving medications for those who do suffer from fibromyalgia.   

What is the role of fibrin in fibromyalgia?

Research from the late 1990s reveals that many patients with chronic disease may have an underlying coagulation defect contributing to their symptoms.  When tissues don’t receive sufficient blood, the cells are starved for oxygen and nutrients. Pain can result, as in headache or fibromyalgia.   

In the case of fibromyalgia, fibrin (a stiff protein) forms a meshwork, or screen that slows blood flow to the cells. This interferes with cell function and cell-to-cell communications leading to the accumulation of additional forms of protein debris. Therefore, the symptoms of fibromyalgia can respond well to treatments that are aimed at clearing protein debris. [1]   

Fibromyalgia sufferers may experience pain as a result of excess fibrin when promoted by thrombin, a key clot promoter.  In otherwise healthy individuals, one burst of thrombin should generate enough fibrin to form an actual clot in the event of an injury.  However, those with fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions may continuously generate low thrombin levels that can result in increased fibrin and pain as circulation slows.    

Reducing fibrin with the use of systemic enzyme therapy may be an alternative to taking blood thinning and pain relieving medications for those who do suffer from fibromyalgia.

How Vitalzym can help

Vitalzym can help relieve a variety of fibromyalgia related symptoms by addressing many of the underlying causes.

These symptoms include:

• Pain and Stiffness
• Fatigue
• Poor Circulation
• Digestive Troubles
• Irritable Bowel / Bladder

Vitalzym can also be a safer alternative to many prescription and over the counter pain relievers that may cause undesirable side effects, which is the last thing a fibromyalgia sufferer needs.

Vitalzym contains enzymes such as protease and serrapeptase, which are well-known for their proteolytic (excess protein clearing) properties. Proteolytic enzymes break down excess fibrin in your circulatory system and in other connective tissue, such as your muscles – helping to remove the meshwork that slows blood flow to the cells.   

If the rate of protein (fibrin) accumulation exceeds the rate of breakdown, the microcirculatory system gets clogged and flow decreases. This stagnation of protein debris promotes fibrosis in the muscles and other soft tissues. Combine this with slowed blood flow and the results are widespread pain and chronic fatigue.   

Vitalzym can help fibromyalgia sufferers by:   

• Acting as an anti-inflammatory agent
• Regulating the immune system
• Increasing circulation
• Reducing fibrosis
• Removing toxins and impurities in the blood
• Reducing viral loads

These enzymes also bring nutrients and oxygen-rich blood that remove the metabolic waste produced by inflammation and excess fibrin. This alone can bring tremendous relief to fibromyalgia sufferers.  

Additionally, researchers are beginning to believe that there is a strong autoimmune component connected to fibromyalgia syndrome. Interestingly enough, systemic enzyme therapy has an excellent track record regarding the treatment of various autoimmune diseases. In addition to reducing inflammation, regulating immunity, and reducing excess fibrin, serrapeptase has a profound ability to reduce pain due to its ability to block the release of pain-inducing amines from inflamed tissues.  

References

1. Hypercoagulation, Protein Accumulation, and Fibromyalgia; Keith Berndtson, M.D.; Illinois MultiMed

Up to 90% of those with fibromyalgia report moderate to severe fatigue. This type of fatigue isn’t just the usual run of the mill tiredness either.  It can last all of the time and for months on end, making it difficult for sufferers to work, take care of family, exercise, or even engage in simple daily tasks or chores.

While the majority of people with fibromyalgia experience extreme fatigue, some people seem to escape this symptom, and others find they are able to adjust to their newly reduced energy levels.  What is most discouraging is the fact that in some cases this fatigue never seems to get better, even with extended periods of rest and sleep.  This is most likely due to the variety of sleep disorders that those with fibromyalgia have, which creates a vicious cycle of pain and fatigue.

Causes of Fatigue

Many fibromyalgia sufferers have frequently reported that they become easily fatigued after mental exertion or physical exercise.  Additionally, many are unable to fall asleep, sleep very lightly, or are suddenly awaken from a very deep sleep.  The question is, could the lack of quality sleep be causing the fatigue, or is there another factor involved here?  Fortunately, new research is being conducted by doctors who specialize in fibromyalgia to find out. 

Common causes of fatigue:

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): The extreme fatigue that many fibromyalgia sufferers experience is very similar to that associated with CFS.  In fact, more than 75% of CFS sufferers have similar symptoms to those with fibromyalgia.  And, many people with fibromyalgia may actually have CFS, as well.  It can be difficult for doctors to distinguish between these two syndromes since they are very similar and are often confused with one another.
• Sleep Disorders:  Many fibromyalgia sufferers experience a variety of sleep disorders, including a problem with their ability to engage in deep sleep.  This is called the alpha EEG anomaly, which is a disorder characterized by sudden brain activity during periods of deep sleep.  These periods of activity may cause people to wake up or feel less rested, contributing to fatigue.
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A more recent explanation for the extreme fatigue that accompanies fibromyalgia focuses on a problem with the body’s energy source. Mitochondria inside our cells convert nutrients and oxygen into energy for our body.  A large number of fibromyalgia sufferers seem to have dysfunctional mitochondria, and thereby don’t have enough energy to power their bodies.

Fatigue and Pain

 Recent studies have shown that the amount of fatigue a fibromyalgia sufferer experiences directly correlates with the amount of pain they have.  For example, if you are feeling particularly tired one morning, you can pretty much count on having an increased amount of fibromyalgia pain during the day.

Fatigue and pain appears to work in a vicious cycle. Due to the severe pain many people experience, sleeping can become difficult, if not impossible.  Naturally, this contributes to fatigue, which, in turn, makes the pain much harder to bear.  

Fatigue also has a great impact on the psychological well being of those suffering from fibromyalgia. Fatigue heightens stress and emotions, which in turn increases the amount of pain that is experienced. Fatigue and depression have also been linked. Furthermore, fatigue may contribute to the memory loss and forgetfulness that often occurs with fibromyalgia.

Vitalzym has been reformulated with a technologically advanced delivery system that allows for reduced dosage and vastly increased effectiveness.

Let’s face it; no one likes to take a handful of pills at any given time.  And now, with the new, more potent Vitalzym, you don’t have to. 

This new improved version of Vitalzym still contains the same beneficial enzyme formula that we all know and love.  However, it has been reformulated to increase its fibrinolytic activity to be even more effective against fibrosis conditions, such as uterine fibroid tumors, fibromyalgia, and scar tissue.  It will also be more helpful for inflammatory conditions, as well. 

New Changes Highlighted

• Twice as strong as original Vitalzym
• LESS COST PER DOSE
• Enteric coated for ideal release of active ingredients
• Liquid filled for optimal absorption
• Half the dose of original Vitalzym
• Smaller and more convenient packaging, with flip-top lid
• 100% non-GMO
• Vegetarian
• Completely recyclable packaging

World Nutrition is on the cutting edge of enzyme supplementation. Learn about the new Vitalzym, which offers the highest purity and potency available in a systemic enzyme formula.

Vitalzym Basics for Newbie’s

Vitalzym provides the enzymes needed for each of the millions of biochemical reactions that make life possible. Without enzymes, life could not exist.  As we age, our body’s natural production of enzymes begins to slow down.  Therefore, supplementation with Vitalzym along with proper diet and exercise can help maintain normal enzyme levels and balance your body’s own repair mechanisms.

Vitalzym systemic proteolytic enzyme therapy assists the body in fighting:

• Autoimmune conditions
• Fibromyalgia symptoms
• Uterine Fibroid Tumors – Read My Vitalzym Story
• Inflammation
• Fibrosis of the organs
• Scar tissue
• Toxins and impurities in the blood
• Viruses

Vitalzym is natural. It contains no animal derivatives, artificial flavors, artificial colors, yeast or gluten. Vitalzym is also lactose free and contains no harmful talc.

Enzyme Facts

As we age, our body’s natural production of enzymes begins to slow down.  Some health care professionals believe that our natural production of enzymes starts to decrease after the age of 27. 

Symptoms of low enzyme production can include: 

• Slow wound healing
• Increased scarring
• Poor digestion
• Fibrosis conditions
• Internal inflammation

Dr. Anthony Cichoke, enzyme authority, states in his book, Enzymes and Enzyme Therapy, that “Our body’s ability to function, to repair when injured, and to ward off disease is directly related to the strength and numbers of our enzymes.”

Customer Testimonials

“I have suffered for many years with severe allergies and continual back pain from injuries sustained while serving in the armed forces as a helicopter pilot during the Viet Nam Conflict. I started taking Vitalzym daily in January, and by March all but the mildest symptoms of my allergies have disappeared and I have had no back pain. I can now enjoy playing golf pain free and allergy free. I highly recommend Vitalzym as part of one’s daily nutritional regimen.”
     - Jim H., Arizona

“I am so excited. I have only been using Vitalzym for a month and I can already tell it is working. I bought for fibroid relief, and it is working on so many other things too! Thanks!”
     - Julie E, Kansas

“I wanted to share with you the fact that Vitalzym has given me such tremendous relief from my fibromyalgia symptoms. When I first started taking it I was desperate and in agony. I couldn’t sit, couldn’t lie down, standing hurt, everything hurt. Vitalzym has been the one product that I have found to help with the chronic pain and it wasn’t long after starting to take it that I noticed the pain subsiding. Thank you for offering products for someone like myself who believes in natural treatments before chemical complications.  I highly recommend this product to anyone.”
     - Tami H, North Carolina

“I have had rheumatoid arthritis for a couple of years. I have done my homework and tried many different enzyme products. Vitalzym works best. It helps with my pain and stiffness. I use Vitalzym on a regular basis and wouldn’t be without it. I want to spread the word about Vitalzym.”
     - Carol G., Arizona

Read More Customer Testimonials

Vitalzym is the clear choice for anyone
wanting to use systemic enzymes

Get Yours Today!

The production of Melatonin decreases as we get older. A decrease in Melatonin levels can lead to a compromised immune system and an increase in cell disorders, heart dysfunction, and high blood pressure. Many medical researchers believe Melatonin supplementation may help with these types of conditions.

Melatonin also plays a unique roll as a powerful anti-oxidant. Unlike other anti-oxidants, the extremely small size of the Melatonin molecule allows it to penetrate the cell membrane. Research shows that Melatonin may improve brain function and may also be one of the most powerful anti-aging hormones yet discovered. Researchers are also studying its effect on preventing or helping Alzheimer’’s and Parkinson’’s disease.

Furthermore, studies have shown Melatonin to inhibit several types of cell abnormalities. It seems to not only inhibit the start, but also the metastasis of these cell irregularities.

• Sleep Disorders
• Jet Lag
• Fibromyalgia
• Depression
• Superior Anti-Oxidant
• Poor Mood

Fibromyalgia suffers can use melatonin in the form of a cream with the same beneficial effects of an oral form to help with sleep disorders, depression, and mood. Energetic Nutrition offers Melatonin cream and Melatonin sublinguals.  The sublingual form is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessels under the tongue and in the cheeks, bypassing the liver and allowing for quick entry into the system.  The cream is absorbed into the skin and goes to the bloodstream quickly as well. Please visit our website pages on Melatonin for information regarding precautions when taking this supplement.

Gender – Both women and men can be afflicted by fibromyalgia. Many experts believe it could be tied to hormone imbalances, including estrogen dominance. 

Age – Fibromyalgia is most common in people between 20 and 55 years old; however, it can occur in people of all age groups. Women typically develop it during their childbearing years.

Stress – People coming from stressful environments or who are particularly vulnerable to stress (either physiological or psychological) are believed to develop fibromyalgia more frequently that those who experience less stress.  High levels of stress can trigger flare-ups.

Sleep Disorders – Many fibromyalgia sufferers have a long history of sleep problems.  Some experts claim that sleep disorders could be a root cause of fibromyalgia, such as sleep apnea.

Genetics – Research has shown that women closely related to a fibromyalgia sufferer are more likely to develop this condition themselves indicating a genetic predisposition. 

Other chronic-pain conditions – People with lupus, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis (a type of arthritis) are at increased risk for developing fibromyalgia, possibly because their chronic pain causes sensitization of the central nervous system, which is believed to be the cause of fibromyalgia related pain. 

What many people don’t realize is that these symptoms can be directly or indirectly associated with fibromyalgia.  If you suffer from these symptoms, you may have fibromyalgia and not be aware of it.  

 18 Points of Tenderness 

Painful tender points are located at various places on your body and are a common characteristic of fibromyalgia syndrome leading to a diagnosis. Your health care provider will ask about your pain symptoms and then press on a series of anatomically-defined soft tissue body sites called “tender points.”  Eleven of the 18 tender point sites must be painful when pressed in order to receive a medical diagnosis of fibromyalgia.

While any body part can be affected, the most common sites of pain include:

• Neck and Back
• Shoulders and Chest
• Hips and Knees
• Hands and Elbow Regions
• Buttocks and Pelvic Girdle

Pledge to Care

 Energetic Nutrition is a member of the National Fibromyalgia Association. See their website for great information and the opportunity to Pledge to Care:

• Fibromyalgia Information
• Support and Resources
• Magazine
• Community Events

You can also visit our fibromyalgia website page for more information regarding resource links and suggested further reading.  

Dietary Supplements to the Rescue

Even if you are not diagnosed with fibromyalgia, but suffer from the various associated symptoms, you may find relief from natural dietary supplements. Please review this chart, which includes a list of symptoms along with natural dietary supplements that can help provide relief for a variety of symptoms associated with this condition.  Even if you have not been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, yet suffer from any of the symptoms listed, you may benefit from one or more of the products listed. 

Read more about natural supplements for fibromyalgia on our Fibromyalgia website: 

Need help choosing which products are right for you?  We have a nutritionist on staff to help you. See our Contact Us page to contact our nutritionist by telephone, email, or live chat.