Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Characterised by extreme fatigue that does not go away with rest (lasting more than 6 months) and cannot be explained by an underlying medical condition. Chronic fatigue may worsen with physical activity. The cause is largely unknown but according to the Mayo Clinic there are theories connecting it to viral infections and psychological stress. However, some experts believe it’s caused by a combination of factors including adrenal fatigue or system wide inflammation.

There is no one single test that can diagnose this condition, but you may need to have several tests done to rule out other health problems that have similar symptoms.

Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• fatigue

• loss of memory

• unexplained muscle or joint pain

• headaches

• unrefreshing sleep

• extreme exhaustion lasting more than 24 hours following mental or physical exercise

CFS can be a result of strained relationships, stresses within the family or work place. The kind of strains and stresses that go unresolved.

A person suffering from CFS is dealing with a crippling illness, it often starts with flu like symptoms, but unlike the flu CFS can last a lifetime. There can be significant levels of irritability, mood swings, anxiety and panic attacks, even depression. Simply put the emotional and mental side effects of CFS should not be overlooked. Treatment here must include mind, body and spirit.

Unfortunately we still know very little about chronic fatigue, and because of this the cause is still largely unknown. While researchers are still looking for the root cause of CFS there are findings that hormonal imbalances, poor immune system response and viral infections (among some others) are contributing factors.

Chronic fatigue may be linked to celiac disease, food sensitivities or food allergies.

4 Ways to Overcome CFS

while we know that conventional medicine treatments are designed to treat the symptoms and not the underlying cause, often people with CFS are prescribed anti-depressants and sleeping pills. In many cases the side effect from the drugs prescribed will affect the person in worse ways than the condition itself.

As a nutrition coach, in this instance I would recommend the addition of Vitamin B Complex, a diet rich in potassium and magnesium with the elimination of any food allergens.

1. Eliminate Food Allergens

Research is pointing towards a link between food allergies and chronic fatigue syndrome. Allergies to certain foods, pollen and metals (and other environmental chemicals) may be causing a rise in the number of individuals dealing with CFS.

2. Increase Vitamin B Intake

Vitamin B Complex is great to add if you are feeling low on energy, the combination of the B’s all play a vital role in energy metabolism – for this reason alone a regular intake of Vitamin B Complex can be extremely beneficial to anyone suffering with CFS. B6 is a particularly important, found in wild tuna and salmon, bananas, grass-fed beef, sweet potatoes, turkey, hazelnuts, garlic and cooked spinach. B6 helps to prevent and relieve fatigue and supports a healthy immune system.

3. Potassium and Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that is known for its energy support, emotional balance and eases pain. If you have CFS consider a magnesium supplement or magnesium rich foods such as spinach, chard, pumpkin, seeds, yogurt and kefir, almonds, black beans, avocados, figs, dark chocolate (75% or more) and bananas. Adding these foods into your diet can help overcome the effects of CFS.

Potassium is vital for electrolyte balance in the body. Foods like avocados, spinach, sweet potatoes, coconut water, yogurt and kefir, bananas, dried apricots and mushrooms are great to add to your diet. A deficiency in potassium can include CFS symptoms.

4. Lifestyle

CFS is a very difficult condition to work with, for the person suffering, that is. It’s very taxing both physically and mentally. Suffering from persistent exhaustion, reduced brain cognition and chronic muscle and joint pain takes its toll. So you need to establish peace where you can and relax whenever it is possible.

It’s a great idea to commit to one full day of rest, a day when you have no responsibilities or commitments. Give your body and mind a much needed respite – this will help you find stress, anxiety and exhaustion. Also important, during the week if you are having a particularly difficult time, try not to overtax yourself.

Disclaimer – this information is not intended for treatment or prevention of disease, nor as a substitute for medical treatment or medial advice. Please seek a licensed medical practitioner if you believe you are affected by anything mentioned in this post.