Treatment FAQ

what foods to eat for chronic fatigue syndrome treatment

by Dr. Sterling Stamm III Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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What to Eat
  • Fruits (any, especially berries)
  • Vegetables (any, especially leafy greens and orange-colored options)
  • Dried beans or legumes.
  • Whole or cracked grains.
  • Fish and seafood.
  • Whole soy foods (e.g., tofu or tempeh)
  • Fermented dairy (e.g., yogurt or kefir)
  • Healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.
Jul 29, 2021

Medication

Natural Treatment Options for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  • Essential Fatty Acids. ...
  • Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid. ...
  • Coenzyme Q10. ...
  • Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NADH) NADH is a naturally occurring molecule formed from vitamin B3 (niacin) that plays an essential role in cellular energy production.

More items...

Therapy

base meals on potatoes, bread, rice, pasta or other starchy carbohydrates – choose wholegrain versions where possible have some dairy, or dairy alternatives such as soya drinks – choose lower-fat and lower-sugar options eat some beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other protein – including 2 portions of fish every week, 1 of which should be oily

Self-care

What Supplements for CFS Should You Try?

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Some studies indicate that ME/CFS patients tend to have a deficiency in intracellular levels of acylcarnitine.
  • Antioxidants. Antioxidants protect your cells from free radical damage. ...
  • CoQ10/Ubiquinol. ...
  • Essential Fatty Acids. ...
  • Folic Acid. ...
  • Magnesium Malate. ...

Nutrition

List Of Foods That Fight Fatigue – The Best Foods

  1. Oatmeal. Oatmeal is considered as a super food that supports digestive health and maintains healthy blood sugar levels.
  2. Nuts And Seeds. Nuts and seeds are ideal foods that fight fatigue that I would like to reveal in this entire article today and want you and my other ...
  3. Sweet Potatoes. ...
  4. Spinach. ...
  5. Coconut. ...
  6. Bananas. ...
  7. Melons. ...
  8. Dark Chocolate. ...
  9. Cacao. ...
  10. Salmon. ...

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What is the best natural remedy for chronic fatigue?

What foods should I eat to help with fatigue?

What are the best energy supplements for chronic fatigue?

What is the best diet for fatigue?

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What foods make fatigue worse?

Examples of foods that could increase fatigue throughout the day include:sugary foods, including syrup and honey.white bread.baked goods.high caffeine drinks.heavily processed foods, such as potato chips.

Can diet help chronic fatigue syndrome?

A diet rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, avoiding saturated fats and refined carbohydrates—like the Mediterranean Diet—is reported by many people with ME/CFS to be helpful. Eat several small meals throughout the day. For example, three meals and three snacks might help keep energy levels up.

What foods should I avoid with chronic fatigue syndrome?

Ditch inflammatory foods Since inflammation appears to play a role in chronic fatigue, Montoya recommends trying an anti-inflammatory diet or adding anti-inflammatory foodslike fish and olive oil. Try to limit inflammatory foods like sugar, fried foods, and processed meat.

What should I eat if I have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Can diet help with ME/CFS?Base your meals on potatoes, bread, rice, pasta or other starchy carbohydrates, as they are a good source of energy. ... Beans, pulses, fish, eggs and meat are a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. ... Milk, cheese and yoghurt are a source of protein and some vitamins.More items...

What vitamins help chronic fatigue?

Studies have suggested that coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)—common antioxidant dietary supplements with known cardioprotective effects—might relieve symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).

Can eggs cause fatigue?

Eggs make you tired because they are high in tryptophan, which is an amino acid that produces hormones such as serotonin and melatonin. Both of these hormones tell your body to relax and that it's time to sleep. Also, eggs are high in protein, and protein can take longer to digest, making you feel lethargic.

Is coffee good for chronic fatigue?

As a stimulant, caffeine, found in coffee, works on the central nervous system (CNS) to temporarily decrease the feeling of fatigue and create a feeling of alertness.

Can bananas cause fatigue?

9. Bananas. While bananas are highly nutritious, especially post-workout, their levels of tryptophan, potassium and magnesium all work together to relax our muscles and reduce anxiety. These results are beneficial for our wellbeing, but it can make us feel a bit tired if eaten in excess.

Is fasting good for chronic fatigue?

Health effects[edit | edit source] There is no evidence on the benefits or harms of fasting for ME and CFS patients. However, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting possible health benefits of water-only fasting to the microbiome, mitochondria and the immune system, and as a cancer adjuvant.

What are some good foods to eat when you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Healthy grains include brown rice, barley, quinoa, and oatmeal. However, if eating excess carbohydrates is not desired, choosing to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet would be an acceptable substitute. Fruits and vegetables have the advantage of having essential minerals that can help those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

What are some good foods to eat to help with fatigue?

Contain a high amount of carbohydrates—the main energy source of the body. Including whole grains in your diet will also help regulate the digestive system, allowing it to maintain good working order. Healthy grains include brown rice, barley, quinoa, and oatmeal. However, if eating excess carbohydrates is not desired, choosing to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet would be an acceptable substitute. Fruits and vegetables have the advantage of having essential minerals that can help those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

What is the name of the disorder that is characterized by extreme fatigue not attributed to any underlying condition?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disorder that is characterized by extreme fatigue not attributed to any underlying condition. The fatigue experienced by those affected is often worsened with additional physical or mental activity and is not improved with rest. CFS also goes by the name myalgic encephalomyelitis ...

How does chronic fatigue affect people?

People may find benefits from using antidepressants or psychological counseling. The food you eat may also impact symptoms of fatigue, with a chronic fatigue diet possibly giving you the relief you seek. The following are some of ...

What foods cause inflammation?

Some of these inflammatory-inducing foods include fried foods, processed meats, and high sugar products.

How to help CFS?

Having a meal plan and preparing your meals ahead of time can make it easier to eat food that improves CFS symptoms. By having a plan in place, you can ensure meals are ready to go when you need them . The thought of cooking food is often one of the biggest hurdles when you have chronic fatigue, but with a little preparation, you can give yourself the best chance to stay energized.

What percentage of CFS patients have irritable bowel syndrome?

By doing this, many CFS patients have discovered that their symptoms are associated with irritable bowel syndrome—a condition that 35 to 90 percent of CFS patients also have.

Why is it important to watch what you eat when you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Because although some foods are generally healthy, they have a way to worsen your symptoms and make the condition even worse for you.

How to reduce chronic fatigue syndrome?

10 best Foods to reduce Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Diet) A balanced diet is the main source of energy that is much needed to a person who is already feeling weak and tired. Studies showed that eating small frequent meals assist CFS patients as it fuels them up throughout the day without over-indulging them. The truth is eating larger amounts can ...

Why is white rice considered a sugary food?

These are like sugary foods because the building blocks of starches or carbohydrates are sugars which has a tendency of spiking your sugar levels temporarily just to crush it in a short while. Moreover, there is less fiber in white rice and pasta which means consuming a lot of these will surely affect your digestive system.

Why is sugar bad for CFS?

Sugar uses a lot of nutrients because it need to be processed by your body. Also, inflammation is promoted by the use of sugar which is what CFS patients avoid. Thus, patients with chronic fatigue syndrome should avoid adding sugar in their food and stick to sweet food like fruits and some sweet vegetables.

What are the best sources of protein for IBS?

the good sources of animal protein are; meat, chicken, fish, eggs and milk.

What is the best vegetable for fatigue?

This plant is packed with micronutrients particularly vitamins like; vitamins K, C, A. 2. Coconut Milk. These are rich in electrolytes, nutrients and minerals and are good in treating fatigue.

Is flaxseed good for you?

These are known to improve chronic fatigue. Flaxseed are a good addition as they are rich in fibers which is very beneficial for weight management by preventing constipation and also making you feel fuller for longer. Consuming a good amount of these will sure keep your glucose level on the norm.

What foods can help with fatigue?

Making grains at home can help control what goes in them. Prepare brown rice or quinoa with steamed vegetables for an added boost of antioxidants that will not be overly taxing on the digestive system, which can cause fatigue. Oatmeal is a great breakfast option. Pair it with no-sugar-added peanut butter and fruit.

What to eat for a tired stomach?

Prepare brown rice or quinoa with steamed vegetables for an added boost of antioxidants that will not be overly taxing on the digestive system, which can cause fatigue. Oatmeal is a great breakfast option. Pair it with no-sugar-added peanut butter and fruit.

Why is flaxseed oil good for you?

Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed to improve blood circulation and improve cognitive function. Chronic fatigue syndrome is often associated with depression and lack of concentration. Omega-3 fatty acids help with concentration and mood. Individuals can swap out vegetable oil for flaxseed oil during home cooking.

What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?

Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are memory loss, chronic fatigue, and disrupted sleep. Headaches, unexplained muscle pain, and viral infections are also associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Many foods can serve as an alternative treatment to help reduce levels of exhaustion. Get to know the best ones for this now.

Why do chickpeas cause fatigue?

Chickpeas. Dreamstime. Chronic fatigue syndrome may be caused by an underlying disorder such as an undiagnosed disease. Legumes such as chickpeas are high in polyphenols, or plant nutrients with disease-fighting properties. Polyphenols may protect against heart disease and high blood pressure.

What causes chronic fatigue?

The cause is unknown, though theories include hormonal imbalance, improper diet, physiological stress, viral infections, and thyroid problems. Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are memory loss, chronic fatigue, and disrupted sleep. Headaches, unexplained muscle pain, and viral infections are also associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Many foods can serve as an alternative treatment to help reduce levels of exhaustion. Get to know the best ones for this now.

Is kale good for fatigue?

Kale. Chronic fatigue syndrome may be exaggerated by a lack of quality nutrients in the diet. Kale is a well-known superfood, meaning it has more nutrients than most foods. It provides the antioxidants quercetin and kaempferol, vitamins A, C, and K, folate, and even omega-3 fatty acids.

What foods can I eat to reduce fatigue?

Try to limit inflammatory foods like sugar, fried foods, and processed meat.

How to get rid of fatigue?

2. Stay hydrated. While drinking more water isn’t a cure for chronic fatigue, it’s still important. Dehydration is known to make fatigue worse. Staying hydrated is important for improving or maintaining health. 3. Keep a food and symptom journal.

How to get started with a diet plan?

You can get started on your own by paying attention to how particular foods make you feel.

How to keep your energy up when you are tired?

If you’re losing weight or struggling to eat enough throughout the day, Groppo recommends trying smaller meals more frequently or adding small snacks between each meal. Eating more frequently may help keep your energy up. Smaller portions may be easier to tolerate as well.

How to get tired after a crash?

Instead of reaching for foods with refined sugar, Groppo suggests eating naturally sweet foods with a bit of protein to help even out your blood sugar and energy levels.

What percentage of people with irritable bowel syndrome have chronic fatigue?

Since 35 to 90 percent of people with chronic fatigue experience symptoms that are associated with irritable bowel syndrome, it’s important to pay special attention to any stomach upset or distress. 4. Don’t cut it all out.

What to eat when you don't know what to eat?

Don’t know what to eat? Groppo recommends sticking with foods that are “as close to how Mother Nature made it as possible.” Choose popped corn instead of corn flakes or brown rice instead of pasta, for example.

What is the best treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome?

A high nutrient diet can play an essential role in the process of chronic fatigue syndrome treatment, but you will get the best therapeutic results if you add natural vitamin and mineral supplements to boost the level of these essential nutrients.

What is the best vitamin for fatigue?

Vitamin C is known as an extremely important nutrient for chronic fatigue syndrome treatment. According to a study that was done on 411 dentists and their wives, scientists found an obvious relationship between the presence of fatigue & lack of vitamin C. Scientists indicated that vitamin C can support the immune function, and prevent fatigue caused by infections. Besides, this vitamin can stimulate the production of interferon (known as a chemical found to stop the spread of viruses in human body). In addition, vitamin C is necessary for white blood cells & their antibody production. It also helps the body fight bacterial & fungal infections. Furthermore, this vitamin is an important anti-stress vitamin that is needed for the production of adequate adrenal gland hormones. Women with healthy adrenal function can have ability to prevent fatigue & exhaustion when they are under emotional or physical stress.

What is the best source of potassium?

A study indicated that older people with a deficiency of this mineral had weaker grip strength. Potassium plays many important roles in our body. For example, it helps regulate the transfer of necessary nutrients into cells and it can work with sodium to keep up the body's water balance. The best sources of potassium are beans & peas, fruits, vegetables, seeds & nuts, starches & whole grains.

What herbs are good for women with depression?

Herbs such as oat straw, ginkgo biloba, ginger, garlic, dandelion root, licorice root, and Siberian ginseng are good for women with fatigue and depression. These herbs may have a stimulatory effect, and help improve energy & vitality. Almost women who apply these herbs can note improved physical & mental capabilities, and an increased ability to deal with stress.

How long does it take to get rid of CFS?

Once you begin an elimination diet, you should give it at least 5 days. When you notice positive changes in your symptoms, which last for about 2 days, you can be ready to begin adding foods back in. In case you do not notice positive changes, you should give it another 5 days. If you still do not see any difference, you should give up. Here is a list of foods to eat and avoid:

How to increase serotonin levels?

If you want to raise your serotonin levels through foods, you can try eating dark chocolate in small amounts, complex carbohydrates (such as starchy foods, grains and beans) and carbohydrate-rich foods (eating before bed).

Why is protein important for chronic fatigue?

Do you know why adding enough protein into your daily diet is extremely important? The reason is that our bodies need protein for growth & maintenance. Protein intake is one of the good solutions for chronic fatigue syndrome treatment. Protein is responsible directly for around 20% of the material in our tissues and cells. Protein also is necessary for antibodies, hormones and enzymes, which keep our body going. Some animal-based proteins including milk, fish, poultry, eggs and meat will give you the essential amino acids your body requires to build protein. A lot of experts say that the tissue abnormalities, which can go along with chronic fatigue syndrome may get worse or even may be caused by an inadequate protein. In addition, experts say that eating enough of protein can help you relieve stiffness & pain.

Why is it important to maintain a healthy diet for chronic fatigue syndrome?

These patients need to maintain as wholesome a diet as possible, simply to help their ailing bodies to heal. Problems caused by disruptions in cell metabolism, malabsorption, and food sensitivities make it all the more important for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Myalgic Encephalomyelitis patients to maintain an appropriate diet – that is, following a diet that will maximize the nutrients available to a healing body while minimizing any harmful effects that specific foods or food additives may produce .

How to help ME/CFS patients?

Eat sensibly. Patients with ME/CFS need to consume a healthy, balanced supply of nutrients to provide the basic raw materials required to make them well. For those whose choices are not already restricted by food sensitivities, maintaining a broad, varied diet will provide the best basis for improvement.

How many people are better after eating a modified diet?

Dr. Robert H. Loblay and Dr. Anne R. Swain, two clinicians working on ME/CFS research in Australia, discovered that about one-third of their patients considered themselves “much better” after eliminating offending foods from their diets. These patients reported significant improvement in specific symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, malaise, depression, and irritability after adopting a modified diet. Treatment surveys conducted by a DePaul University research team and by Dr. Fred Friedberg also confirm that about one-third of patients who adopt anti-allergy diets experience moderate to major improvement in ME/CFS symptoms.

What are the symptoms of ME/CFS?

About two-thirds of ME/CFS patients have gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn, gas, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and cramps. In many cases, these symptoms are caused by food sensitivities. Others may have concurrent conditions such as interstitial cystitis or migraine headaches that require certain dietary constraints.

Why should you avoid eating nuts?

NUTS. Nuts should be avoided because they contain large amounts of arginine, the amino acid needed for herpesviruses to replicate.

What to do if you have ME/CFS?

Listen to your body. This is the most important rule for people with ME/CFS. If a particular food item makes you feel worse, don’t eat it, even if it is supposed to be “good for you.”. Even “good” foods, such as salad, broccoli, nuts, fruit, and spinach can do harm if you cannot digest them. Your body will, in most cases, give you clear signs ...

Can ME/CFS patients eat meat?

This question has no simple answers. ME/CFS patients react to foods with the same frustrating inconsistency as they do to medications. Whereas one person can maintain a vegetarian diet, another needs to eat meat at every meal. Some feel significantly better after cutting back on carbohydrates and eliminating fruit. Because each person’s digestive system reflects one’s own unique case of ME/CFS – complicated by allergies, food sensitivities, bladder sensitivities, blood sugar problems – there is no single “best diet” for patients.

What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?

To meet the Institute of Medicine's diagnostic criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome, a person would also need to experience at least one of these two symptoms: Difficulties with memory, focus and concentration. Dizziness that worsens with moving from lying down or sitting to standing.

What are the symptoms of fatigue?

Be thorough. While fatigue may be affecting you most, other symptoms — such as memory problems or headaches — also are important to share with your doctor. Key personal information. Recent changes or major stressors in your life can play a very real role in your physical well-being.

How long does fatigue last?

This is called post-exertional malaise and it can last for days or weeks after the exertion.

How to deal with chronic illness?

Counseling. Talking with a counselor can help build coping skills to deal with chronic illness, address limitations at work or school, and improve family dynamics. It can also be helpful for managing depression. Addressing sleep problems. Sleep deprivation can make other symptoms more difficult to deal with.

What is the best medication for fibromyalgia?

Pain. If over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium ( Aleve) don't help enough, prescription drugs sometimes used to treat fibromyalgia might be options for you. These include pregabalin (Lyrica), duloxetine (Cymbalta), amitriptyline or gabapentin (Neurontin).

How to treat sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea can be treated by using a machine that delivers air pressure through a mask while you sleep. Exercise.

Is there a cure for chronic fatigue syndrome?

There is no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome. Treatment focuses on symptom relief. The most disruptive or disabling symptoms should be addressed first.

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