Preliminary evidence that insulin resistance may play a role in fibromyalgia.

People high HbA1c (a biomarker for long-term blood glucose) were significantly more likely to have fibromyalgia even if they did not have type 2 diabetes.

Treatment for high-blood sugar with metformin lowered HbA1c levels and improved pain symptoms in people with high HbA1c.

This preliminary evidence suggests that elevated blood sugar levels long-term may play a role in fibromyalgia pain. It also suggests that lifestyle changes that lower blood glucose levels such as avoiding refined sugars and participating in physical exercise may improve fibromyalgia.