Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain

Biography

Biography: Garth L Nicolson

Abstract

Loss of function in mitochondria, the key cell organelle responsible for most cellular energy production, can result in cell death, excess fatigue, pain and other symptoms that are common problems in almost if not every chronic disease. At the molecular level reductions in mitochondrial function occur when there is loss of mitochondrial maintenance of inner membrane trans-membrane potential due to oxidative damage by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), resulting in reduced efficiency of the electron transport chain and less generation of ATP. Membrane Lipid Replacement (MLR) using an all-natural nutritional supplement mixture containing membrane glycerolphospholipids can be used to repair mitochondrial inner membranes, improve mitochondrial function, reverse ROS damage and increase the efficiency of the electron transport chain. Recent clinical trials with CFS/ME and FM patients have shown the benefits of MLR in enhancing mitochondrial function, reducing fatigue and improving mood and cognition. Mitochondrial function and inner membrane trans-membrane potential have been enhanced by 25-35%, resulting in decreases in fatigue by 35-45% in clinical trials. We have also been using MLR to help reduce pain in FM patients and return blood lipids and homocysteine levels to their normal range. MLR helps reduce, mobilize and remove cholesterol, which may contribute to pain in FM by impairing microcirculation and contributing to tissue ischemia.