Diet for Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue is a health condition characterized by increased fatigue that worsens with physical activities. In contrary to the normal tiredness, chronic fatigue remains even after rest or sleep. The severity of chronic fatigue depends on the duration of the symptoms. Some of the common signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue are fatigue, enlarged and painful lymph nodes, loss of concentration, muscle pain, body ache, sleep problem and extreme exhaustion.

The symptoms of chronic fatigue are collectively referred to as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The exact cause of chronic fatigue is not known. It may be caused due to psychological stress, depression, weakened immune system, hormonal changes and viral infections. It is advisable to consult a qualified physician if the symptoms of chronic fatigue are severe and persistent.

Treatment of Chronic Fatigue

Since the symptoms of chronic fatigue are vague, it has not been identified as a medical condition previously. In recent times, the number of people reported with chronic fatigue is very high. Since then, medical interventions are used for the treatment of this chronic condition. The treatment options implemented for chronic fatigue are based on the manifested symptoms. Various treatment options include a combination of mild exercise, relieving pain, behavior therapy, managing depression and nervous system problems. In addition to therapeutic treatment options for chronic fatigue, there are certain effective home remedies including a proper diet plan.

Dietary Guidelines for Chronic Fatigue

The main theory that holds importance of diet in the treatment of chronic fatigue is that nutritional deficiencies worsen the symptoms of this chronic condition. Hence, including a well-balanced diet with healthy foods is an important part in the modern treatment option for chronic fatigue. Speaking about the proper diet for chronic fatigue, it should contain healthy food items in order to restore energy and stimulate the immune system. Doing so helps in preventing dietary complications that are commonly observed among people with chronic fatigue.

Complex Carbohydrates
Diet for people with chronic fatigue should contain an adequate amount of foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates. Some of the foods rich in complex carbohydrates are whole grains, barley, corn, cornmeal and oatmeal. Such food items provide vitamins, minerals and fibers along with carbohydrates.

Proteins
Seeds, nuts and soy products contain a high amount of protein. Proteins are essential nutrients responsible for activating antibodies, enzymes and hormones. Some researchers claim that providing the body with sufficient amount of protein helps in relieving pain and stiffness.

Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are the rich sources of antioxidants, vitamins, fibers and other essential nutrients. Including fruits and vegetables in the diet helps in restoring the dysfunctional immune system.

Water Cure
One of the most effective natural treatment of chronic fatigue is drinking ample amounts of water daily. Water helps in keeping the body hydrated, thus reducing the chances of dehydration. It is also the best fluid to detox the body cells and tissues.

Nutrient Supplements
For managing nutritional deficiencies, certain supplements can be administered along with a balanced diet. Consult with the concerned physician regarding the appropriate nutritional supplements and dosages.

Allergic Foods
A person suffering from chronic fatigue should avoid all known foods that cause food allergies. Otherwise, the autoimmune responses of the body may worsen the fatigue condition.

Sugar and Sweets
A patient of chronic fatigue should avoid foods that contain high sugar level. Such sweet foods tend to fluctuate the blood sugar level of the body, which in turn lead to increased fatigue symptoms. Natural sweetener like honey can be used, as it is easy to digest without adverse health effects.

Processed Foods
Last but not the least, one should not include processed foods in the diet plan. All processed foods are low in calorie content and high in fats. In addition, they usually contain preservatives that are harmful to health.

For the patients of chronic fatigue with candidiasis, it is advisable to avoid foods that trigger the fungal infection such as milk products, caffeine, alcohol and refined carbohydrates. The pathophysiology of chronic fatigue is not clearly understood as yet. Some medical researchers opined that chronic fatigue condition is caused due to the inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Nevertheless, there are no sufficient clinical trials that prove that inflammation occurs in the brain and spinal cord.