This page explains our medical stance and how Stems From The Gut approaches fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, chronic primary pain and overlapping gut issues.
We blend lived experience with evidence-informed research on the gut–brain–immune axis, sleep and circadian rhythms, menopause and the microbiome. Everything here is designed to be readable if you’re exhausted and foggy, not just on “good days”.
Who we are
Stems From The Gut grew out of a long, messy journey with fibromyalgia, chronic pain and gut problems.
We know what it’s like to feel fobbed off, bounced between appointments and told to “just exercise more” when your body is already running on fumes. This site, and the Stems From The Gut fibromyalgia book, were created to offer:
- validation that what you’re feeling is real
- clearer explanations of the gut–brain connection
- practical, gentle ideas you can explore at your own pace
We’re not here to sell miracle cures or quick fixes. We’re here to translate the science into something you can actually use in real life.
Our medical stance
We are not a replacement for your GP, rheumatologist, pain clinic, gastroenterologist or any other healthcare professional.
Our content aims to be aligned with current UK guidance, especially:
- NICE NG206 on ME/CFS
- NICE NG193 on chronic primary pain
That means in practice we:
- do not recommend graded exercise therapy (GET) or rigid “step-up” exercise plans for people with post-exertional malaise / post-exertional symptom exacerbation (PEM/PESE)
- emphasise pacing and staying within your energy envelope
- highlight sleep support, nervous-system regulation and gentle movement within your limits
- are cautious about pain medicines, and always encourage shared decision-making with your prescribing doctor
How we talk about the gut, microbiome and diet
We’re excited about gut and microbiome science, but we’re also realistic.
Current research suggests that dysbiosis, gut-barrier changes and reduced short-chain fatty acids are associated with conditions like fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, chronic primary pain and Long Covid. Association is not the same as a proven cure.
So on this site we:
- treat gut and microbiome approaches as adjuncts, not primary treatments
- focus on whole-diet patterns, gentle tweaks and what’s practical in real life
- avoid “heal your gut and cure pain” language
- are honest when the evidence is early, mixed or very low-certainty
If something is experimental, we’ll say so. If we don’t know yet, we’ll say that too.
Important disclaimer
Nothing on this website is personal medical advice.
- It does not replace an individual assessment with a GP, specialist or other regulated healthcare professional.
- We can’t diagnose, recommend or change your medications, or advise you to start or stop any treatment.
- Any changes you make to your diet, pacing, movement, sleep or medication should be discussed with your healthcare team, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, underweight, have other long-term conditions, or are taking prescribed drugs.
When to talk to your GP or seek urgent help
Please contact your GP, specialist or NHS 111 if:
- your pain, fatigue or other symptoms change suddenly or dramatically
- you notice new neurological symptoms (for example weakness, visual changes, new numbness or tingling)
- you are losing weight without trying, or have ongoing fevers, night sweats or bowel changes
Call 999 or go to A&E if you have:
- chest pain, severe shortness of breath or symptoms of a stroke
- thoughts of harming yourself or feeling you can’t keep yourself safe
You deserve proper assessment and support; you never have to “tough it out” alone.
Helpful external resources
We encourage you to use us alongside trusted organisations such as:
- NHS – information on fibromyalgia, chronic pain and related conditions
- Versus Arthritis – guidance on fibromyalgia and musculoskeletal pain
- Fibromyalgia Action UK (FMA UK) – patient information and support
We’ll link to these and other reputable sources at the end of many articles so you can check the wider context for yourself