Jul 13, 2024
A review published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases on January 27, 2024, titled, “Implication of intestinal microbiota in the etiopathogenesis of fibromyalgia: A systematic review”, explains that the gut microbiota can cause the development of fibromyalgia syndrome.
The gut microbiota is the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that live in our digestive tract, mainly in the intestines. These microorganisms play a crucial role in helping us digest food, produce certain vitamins, and support our immune system.
The review found differences in the intestinal microbiota in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome compared to patients without fibromyalgia. Patients with fibromyalgia were found to have higher levels of bacteria from the groups Clostridium, Bacteroides, Coprococcus, and Ruminococcus, but lower levels of Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Eubacterium, Lachnospiraceae, and Firmicutes.
These different bacteria levels caused altered levels of short chain fatty acids and lipopolysaccharides which are thought to be implicated in the disease pathogenesis of fibromyalgia syndrome. The altered microbiota in fibromyalgia is thought to affect through the gut-brain axis the levels of glutamate, gaba, serotonin, and tryptophan; these neurotransmitters can influence pain levels in fibromyalgia patients.
Also the altered gut microbiota can increase the permeability of the intestinal lining (leaky gut). Per the review, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which is a cause of increased intestinal permeability, is present in 78% of patients with fibromyalgia who have gastrointestinal symptoms.
My take: This is a very interesting review which gives insight into the potential causes and treatments for fibromyalgia syndrome. There are tests available through certain specialized labs which can test a person’s gut microbiome and evaluate for SIBO. Based on these results, personalized treatments could be recommended to potentially influence both the development and symptoms of fibromyalgia. Individuals with a family history of fibromyalgia could benefit from these tests to explore dietary and supplement strategies that might help prevent or alleviate the condition.
In my practice, I have witnessed firsthand how optimizing the gut microbiome can significantly boost energy levels, alleviate pain, and enhance overall well-being for my patients.
Adam S. Barron, M.D.
Reference: Int J Rheum Dis. 2024 Jan;27(1):e15021. doi: 10.1111/1756-185X.15021.
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