Fibromyalgia Risk Linked to Trace Elements (Micronutrients)
Our Fibromyalgia Doctors at the London Fibro Clinic would like to inform sufferers about a potential causal link: “A recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports, shows a surprising link between trace elements and fibromyalgia risk, thereby revealing that copper may increase susceptibility to fibromyalgia while iron could offer protection” [1]
Here at the London Fibromyalgia Clinic, our expert team of highly experienced Fibro Specialists are dedicated to empowering our patients to get back to optimum functioning by providing them with a Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan which incorporates both conventional and the latest cutting-edge state-of-the-art treatments. To that end, our Fibro Consultants are always abreast of the latest research from top institutes across the world. And when appropriate our Fibro Doctors take reputable studies which have been published in medical journals, in to account. – This is all part of the London Fibro Clinic’s drive to lead the way in putting an end to the suffering of countless Fibromyalgia patients. We want to see our patients (most of whom have been let down by the NHS due to inexperienced GPs who have not had the years of necessary additional training and clinical expertise in pain conditions and pain medication and treatments), start enjoying every aspects of their lives again.
Taking a Look at the Latest Fibromyalgia Research
A number of studies imply that: “trace elements, essential minerals involved in biological processes, may play a role in fibromyalgia development. Elements such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and copper are crucial for functions such as oxygen transport, nerve signalling, and immune regulation, and deficiencies or excesses in these elements have been linked to various health issues” [1], these include long-term pain conditions [1].
The aforementioned study which was published in Scientific Reports, involved scientists from the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine taking an in-depth look at the potential link between fibromyalgia risk and 15 trace elements (micronutrients), by analysing data from the GWAS (the genome-wide association study) [1].
The researchers utilised a method of genetic epidemiology (the study of how frequently diseases occur in different groups of people and why it happens). This was carried out in order to help the scientists ascertain any causal links between diseases and biological factors. To that end, they examined the connection between trace elements and fibromyalgia [1].
Understanding the Link With Fibromyalgia & Trace Elements
Did you know that micronutrients (trace elements) play crucial roles in our bodies? They are responsible for a number of biological processes including:
- Enzyme catalysis,
- Energy metabolism
- Immune function, and
- Neurotransmission [2]
For example: “iron is a critical component in the synthesis of haemoglobin, which is essential for oxygen transport; zinc acts as a cofactor for multiple enzymes and is involved in regulating immune functions; magnesium is vital for cell signalling and muscle contraction; and copper is involved in the absorption and utilization of iron” [2]. Indeed, subnormal metabolism of such micronutrients has been connected to certain diseases including neurological issues. So you can see the link with fibromyalgia symptoms.
Evidence From Fibro Research
Some research indicates that micronutrient metabolism abnormalities could be linked to the development and progression of fibromyalgia. “Iron deficiency has been linked to fatigue and cognitive impairments in FM patients; zinc deficiency is associated with inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, both relevant to the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia; and magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle pain and increased neural excitability, aligning with fibro’s symptomatic pain” [2].
References
[1]. Sidharthan, C. (2025). “Study reveals copper may raise fibromyalgia risk, iron could offer relief.” Medical News Net. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250203/Study-reveals-copper-may-raise-fibromyalgia-risk-iron-could-offer-relief.aspx#:~:text=Elevated%20copper%20levels%20were%20associated,copper%20levels%20and%20fibromyalgia%20risk.
[2]. Zeng, W., Hu, M., Ma, L., Huang, F., & Jiang, Z. (2025). Copper and iron as unique trace elements linked to fibromyalgia risk.Scientific Reports, 15(1), 1-12. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-86447-4
