Book excerpt: Presenting practical suggestions for relief of pain based on the results of a research study of metabolism, this book offers hope to fibromyalgia sufferers through suggestions of simple lifestyle changes. Since the specific cause of chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia has not yet been explained, this analysis looks at various metabolic imbalances that often produce pain, methods used for diagnosing fibromyalgia, other symptoms that are associated with chronic pain, and the effects of environmental stress on metabolism. Explanations of how daily nutritional choices affect metabolic health are included, and nutritional supplements and natural health techniques such as homeopathy, exercise, and bodywork are provided.