Trace elements may play a role in fibromyalgia
Higher copper and iron levels could affect the risk of fibromyalgia.
In a study published in Scientific Reports, investigators assessed the genetic data of over 400,000 individuals with or without fibromyalgia to determine the relationship between the levels of 15 trace elements and the risk of the disease.
The investigators found that higher levels of copper were associated with a nearly 10% increased risk of developing fibromyalgia, whereas higher levels of iron were associated with more than a 55% reduced risk of fibromyalgia. They detailed that excessive accumulation of copper in the soft tissues of the body could cause harm. For instance, cuprous ions may cause the production of highly reactive free radicals — leading to lipid peroxidation, damage to cellular membranes and function, inflammatory responses and hypersensitivity to pain.
Conversely, iron demonstrated a protective effect, since iron has proved to be critical for normal functioning of the immune system. Iron deficiency has been linked to lower pain thresholds, sensitivity to pain, impaired immune cell functions and poorer overall immune defense capabilities.
Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms through which trace elements may alter the risk of fibromyalgia.
Read more: Scientific Reports
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