Vitamins for Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a mystifying disorder as this syndrome has several causes. The fatigue can be mental or physical. Patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome do not find a relief from fatigue even after adequate sleep and rest. There may be several causes of chronic fatigue syndrome and some of the known causes are listed below:

• Viral infections and infections caused due to a dysfunctional immune system.
• Anemia or iron deficiency (usually, as a result of heavy bleeding).
• Depression and other psychological factors.
• Hormonal changes.
• Chronic, mild or low blood pressure
• Medical history of allergies and Candida infections.
• Genetic factors.

The primary causes of chronic fatigue are not yet determined. However, recent researches have proved that the chronic fatigue syndrome can be effectively treated using nutritional supplements. A balanced healthy diet is important for combating the chronic fatigue syndrome. More curative results are observed in patients including these nutritional supplements containing vitamins, with the healthy diet. Consulting a doctor, is of utmost importance when taking these supplements. The various vitamins included in these nutritional supplements can be explained as follows:

Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin and an important anti-stress vitamin. Vitamin A helps in maintaining the health of the skin and mucous membranes that line the lungs, mouth, digestive tract, cervix and bladder. The skin and membrane tissues are maintained healthy by vitamin A, thus, making it difficult for viruses and infections to affect them. It also facilitates the activity of T-cells. The T-cells help in improving the immune system and combating diseases. Normal production of red blood cells is ensured, thus helping to cure patients of anemia. Healthy immune functioning is maintained by a gland in the lungs, called the thymus. The working of thymus is regulated using vitamin A. Beta carotene is a pro-vitamin and a precursor of Vitamin A. Beta carotene is water soluble and is generally found in fresh fruits and vegetables. In chronic fatigue syndrome, pro-vitamins like the beta carotene work only in the preliminary stages. However, beta carotene is a strong antioxidant and acts as a scavenger for the free radicals, strengthening the immune system.

Vitamin B
Vitamin B complex refers to the twelve vitamin B types, responsible for the appropriate working of the metabolic functions in the human body. Vitamin B is a water soluble vitamin and is easily lost when unhealthy foods and beverages are consumed. Vitamin B regulates activities like glucose metabolism and activity of estrogen hormone. Folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are the three essential vitamin B complexes. Fish, meat and dairy products are the rich sources of vitamin B12. Vitamin B6 is essential in building an immune system which can fight the Candida, bacteria and viruses. The fatigue, mood swings, water retention and food carvings related to the pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) in women, can be reduced by taking vitamin B6 as a supplement. Prostaglandin is a hormone secreted by the human body and the regulation of physiological functions of the body is also done by the vitamin B6. Vegetable and fish oils are abundant in vitamin B6. Whole grains must be incorporated in daily diet to fulfill the requirements of all the B complexes.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin and plays an important role in conserving the immune system. Vitamin C helps in fighting various viruses and infections and maintains the white blood cells and necessary antibody production in the body. Vitamin C deficient people have elevated levels of histamine and are more susceptible to allergic attacks. Anemia can be cured with vitamin C as it helps in the absorption of iron from food in the digestive system. Anemia is seen in women, caused due to heavy menstrual bleeding during teenage and menopausal period. Bioflavonoids, along with vitamin C, help to reduce anemic conditions in women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding. Bioflavonoids are the chemicals that give pigmentation to plants and fruits. Grape skins, blackberries and cherries contain bioflavonoids in good amounts.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E enhances the anti-body effect of the immune system and has antihistaminic properties. An healthy immune system can combat various diseases caused by the infections, viruses and bacteria. Antihistaminic property of vitamin E provides screening for allergic attacks. Chronic fatigue syndrome in women due to depression and fatigue as a result of the menstrual activity is treated using vitamin E supplements. Women who cannot tolerate estrogen that is externally consumed, are also advised to take vitamin E supplements. Wheat germ, fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts have an abundant source of vitamin E.

Vitamins for chronic fatigue syndrome are usually incorporated in the daily diet by including fruits and vegetables. Vitamin supplements also provide the necessary vitamins, but the supplements are to be taken only with medical observation. Some important self care tips include exercising regularly, leading a stress-free life, eating healthy diet and taking adequate rest and sleep.