Amino Acids Low in Fibromyalgia

In this study, researchers measured the level of 20 amino acids (critical components of proteins). They found that overall levels of amino acids were lower in fibromyalgia and that seven amino acids were especially low, including taurine, alanine, tyrosine, valine, methionine, phenylalanine, and threonine.

The pattern of amino acid deficiency was especially suggestive of a problem with the sympathetic (adrenaline) nervous system, which tends to be overactive and then exhausts in patients with CFS and fibromyalgia.

Amino acids are critical for many functions, especially the production of key brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. I recommend supplementation with all of the amino acids as opposed to using a single one by itself, as these supplies overall nutritional support and are less likely to cause a relative deficiency of other amino acids. Although some excellent physicians use amino acid testing, I'm still not convinced of its necessity or validity, and prefer to simply have people with fibromyalgia eat a high-protein diet and supplement with amino acids. A good multivitamin powder should include a decent amount of amino acids. Eggs are also an excellent protein source.

Altered Amino Acid Homeostasis in Subjects Affected by Fibromyalgia

Bazzichi L, Palego L, Giannaccini G, Rossi A, De Feo F, Giacomelli C, Betti L, Giusti L, Bombardieri S, Lucacchini A.

Objectives

To evaluate plasma amino acids (AA) concentrations in patients affected by fibromyalgia (FM) and to study the relationships between their levels and FM clinical parameters.

Design and Methods

20 AA were assessed in 34 FM patients and in 18 healthy volunteers by means of a modified version of the Waters picotag method.

Results

Significant lower plasma taurine, alanine, tyrosine (Tyr), valine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine concentrations and sum of essential AAs were observed in FM patients vs healthy controls (P<0.05). Tyr CAAs ratio and the sum of AAs competing with tryptophan for brain uptake resulted significantly reduced in FM (p<0.05). Significant correlation were found between FM clinical parameters and certain AAs.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a probable defects of gut malabsorption of certain AAs in FM patients. Moreover, given the reduced Tyr CAAs ratio in FM patients, a possible impairment of cathecolaminergic system in the FM syndrome may be suggested.