Healing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome With Food

13 Sep Healing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome With Food

About 1.5 million Americans suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and although that number may seem high, it’s still believed that 80% of those suffering are currently undiagnosed. So how can this be, you ask? Well for starters there is no laboratory test for CFS, so a doctor must systematically rule out all other medical causes that produce similar symptoms.  And since the symptoms are almost parallel to flu-like symptoms this makes diagnosing this condition no easy task.

What to look for if you think you have CFS:

• Persistent, debilitating fatigue
• Headaches
• Tender lymph nodes
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches and weakness
• Joint pain
• Difficulty concentrating
• Short-term memory problems
• Recurring low-grade fever

Although there is no known cure for CFS, it is believed that certain nutrient rich foods can help ease the symptoms and possibly even shorten the recovery time.  If you think you suffer from CFS, always consult your physician and try adding in these foods that may help you to heal and stay away from the foods that may cause more harm.

Foods that HEAL:

• Starches for energy – load up on your fruits and vegetables to help your body get the carbohydrates it needs to produce energy. They will also give you the vitamins needed to resist infection.
• Zinc for immune health – Often times the flu and colds can precede the onset of CFS. Keep your immune system healthy by eating oysters, poultry, eggs, milk, beans and nuts.
• Omega 3’s for inflammation – Symptoms of CFS include swollen glands and inflammation of the joints. Add salmon, flaxseed, nuts and seeds to your diet to keep the swelling down.
• Magnesium to relax the muscles – Magnesium helps to relax muscles that are tense or contracted, which can cause tenderness especially in those suffering from CFS. Try eating legumes, whole grains and my favorite…. raw chocolate!

Foods that HARM:

• Alcohol – Alcohol not only lowers the immune system it also causes dehydration, which will make almost all of your symptoms seem worse.
• Caffeine -Drinking too much caffeine throughout the day can interfere with your sleeping pattern at night. Always try to get 7-9 hours of deep sleep every night!