Understand Why You Hurt All Over - the Benefits of Malic Acid

Saturday, April 2nd 2005

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Fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) appears to be triggered by a traumatic event such as an accident or an operation, changes in the weather, over exertion, cold, dampness, a drafty environment, stress, anxiety, depression and hormonal fluctuations.

In the past, FM a mysterious disease characterized by chronic pain and fatigue ranging from mild to severe and including symptoms which could change by the hour, has been poorly understood and commonly misdiagnosed. The condition mainly affects women aged 25 to 50 years (female to male ratio 5:1)

Although difficult to diagnose, its primary symptoms are generalized musculoskeletal pain in at least three specific sites persisting for at least three months and reproducible tenderness in at least six specific points throughout the body. Constant interruption of the deep delta sleep needed for the rest and restoration of the body is also a common symptom for FM sufferers. Also stiff and painful muscles when a person with FM is forced to remain immobile for any amount of time. FM is primarily characterized by musculoskeletal pain while chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by fatigue.

Magnesium supplementation also has shown beneficial impacts on fatigue and pain in FM sufferers. Absorption of magnesium is helped by malic acid.

Chronic fatigue syndrome has also been found to be associated with FM and malic acid may be of use as a general supplement aimed at maintaining an optimal level of energy production.

Of the variety of conventional treatments such as Amitryptyline and Ibuprofin that have been tested on FM patients, none have yielded satisfactory outcomes.

Other considerations

Individualised cardiovascular fitness training along with nutrition support can also improve many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Correct nutrition is also important. The avoidance of high fat foods, caffeine, tobacco and alcohol is important. Include plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains. Relaxation, massage and rest can also help. Overall the clinical thrust is to restore key organ system function.

Most physicians start their patients on malic acid/magnesium hydroxide slowly, working up to between 6 and 12 capsules daily. Malic acid/magnesium hydroxide should be taken with food and water. Although a few people may experience slight gastrointestional problems, reducing the dosage can eliminated these problems. Finally, patients must use Malic Acid for a period to see whether they will benefit from its use.

Research

Magnesium and malic acid help fight fatigue and relax muscles

A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Medicine on the combined effects of magnesium and malic acid on FM patients showed encouraging results. All patients obtained significant relief of pain within 48 hours of treatment and within 4 to 8 weeks had a significant and measurable decrease in the Tender Point Index (located over muscles and tendonous insertions).

Radiance Malic Acid Complex

Contains Malic acid, Boswellia (a natural anti-inflammatory agent that has been shown to reduce joint swelling, increase mobility and decrease morning stiffness, magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6 (an important co-factor in the production of several important neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine) and Chromium and was formulated, researched and developed by Dr. Billie J Sahley Ph.D. at the Pain and Stress Center, San Antonio, Texas to address naturally the chronic inflammation and fatigue issues that many people find challenging.

Reproduced unabridged from the April - June 2005 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for Chronic inflammatory disorders:

Fish Oil 1000 - Omega 3
Magnesium Complex
Malic Acid Complex
MSM
Reflux-free Salmon Oil
StarFlax Oil Blend Capsules
Superior Magnesium
Turmeric
Waihi Bush Organic Blackcurrant StarFlax Oil Blend
Waihi Bush Organic Essential Blend Oil

Related health information can be found here:

Anti Inflammatory
Arthritis & Rheumatism
Carpel Tunnel
Circulatory Problems

Related articles can be found here:

Arthritis studies focus on Boswellia

Boswellia - rediscovering a powerful anti-inflammatory herb

Danger Warning on Pain Medicine

Efamarine - help for joint mobility and the maintenance of immunity

Turmeric - more than culinary

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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