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CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME.JPG

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

FOODS THAT HARM

  • Alcohol

    FOODS THAT HEAL

  • Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grain cereals
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Fish
  • Nuts
  • Oysters
  • Eggs
  • Melons
  • Kiwis
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Salty foods (only for those with low blood pressure)

    FOODS TO LIMIT

  • Caffeinated drinks

    WHO’S AFFECTED

  • About 1
    5 million North Americans
  • Most common in women and minorities, especially Latinos
  • People in their 40s and 50s, in most cases
  • All races and ethnic groups are affected
    A mysterious illness once known as “the yuppie flu,” chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) often has flulike symptoms and no proven cure
    It is marked by persistent, debilitating fatigue, as well as other baffling symptoms that include headaches, muscle aches and weakness, tender lymph nodes, sore throat, joint pain, sleep that doesn’t lead to feeling refreshed, difficulty concentrating, post exercise exhaustion that lasts for 24 hours, and short-term memory problems
    There may also be a chronic or recurring low-grade fever
    There is no laboratory test for CFS, so a doctor must systematically rule out all other medical causes that produce similar symptoms
    In many cases, CFS develops in the aftermath of a viral illness, such as mononucleosis or the flu
    Other possible contributing factors include prolonged stress, hormonal imbalance, low blood pressure (hypotension),

    Allergies

    , immune system disorders, and psychological problems
    Most CFS patients eventually recover, but it may take a year or more

    Nutrition Connection

    Although there is no known cure for CFS, certain nutrients in foods may help
    Doctors stress the importance of a well-balanced diet
    Here’s how: Eliminate food

    Allergies


    Seek the guidance of a registered dietitian who can help you meet your nutritional needs while eliminating potential food

    Allergies


    Start with ample starches
    Fruits and vegetables help to provide the carbohydrates the body needs for energy
    They also supply the vitamins needed to resist infection
    Eat to strengthen your immune system
    Foods rich in zinc—such as seafood (especially oysters), meat, poultry, eggs, milk, beans, nuts, and whole grains—as well as foods rich in vitamin C —such as citrus fruits, berries, melons, kiwis, broccoli, and cauliflower—may help keep the immune system working properly
    A robust immune system can help ward off certain viruses, such as flu and colds that may possibly precede the onset of CFS
    Consume more essential fatty acids
    Some of the symptoms of CFS include swollen glands and inflammation of the joints, which may be relieved temporarily by foods rich in essential fatty acids
    These include fish, nuts, seeds, flaxseed and flaxseed oil, canola oil, wheat germ, and leafy green vegetables
    Get more magnesium
    Magnesium is associated with the contraction and relaxation of muscles
    Ingesting foods with the mineral may help alleviate muscle tenderness in people with CFS
    Good sources include sunflower seeds, legumes, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables
    Avoid alcohol
    Alcohol lowers immunity
    Limit caffeine
    Caffeinated drinks should be used in moderation to minimize sleep problems
    Get enough salt
    If low blood pressure is part of your diagnosis, you may benefit from a higher salt intake

    Beyond the Diet

    The rate of recovery varies greatly per individual, but some lifestyle changes and these general guidelines may help a person with CFS cope with the condition: Keep a detailed diary
    Track progress, and note symptoms, foods, and activities that affect your body
    Avoid napping during the day
    Napping may exacerbate sleep problems
    Instead, get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night
    Seek counseling
    Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to help CFS patients gain a better sense of control
    Reduce stress
    Avoid overexertion or psychological stress, which may worsen symptoms
    20% or fewer of those with chronic fatigue syndrome have been diagnosed
    Ask your doctor about exercise
    Studies have shown that 75% of CFS patients who were able to exercise reported less fatigue and better daily functioning and fitness after a year
    Talk to your doctor about medication
    Although no medication cures CFS, some help treat symptoms
    Aspirin and other painkillers may alleviate headaches, joint pain, and muscle soreness, and antidepressant drugs help some patients
    • Importance of well balance diet