How to take a nutritional approach to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Although there is no known cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), certain nutrients in foods may help. Doctors stress the importance of a well-balanced diet and here are some tips on achieving a diet ideal for those coping with chronic fatigue syndrome.

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.

One study indicates that low blood pressure may contribute to the fatigue experienced by CFS patients.

• Usually, blood pressure rises slightly during periods of stress or physical activity. But in some people, blood pressure remains constant or goes down, resulting in fatigue. These people may be salt-resistant and need a higher salt intake to raise blood pressure.
• Researchers have noted that many CFS pa­tients have low-salt diets, which may explain their hypotension and fatigue.
• Symptoms be­came less severe when the patients increased their intake of salty foods.

Some alternative practitioners advocate injections of vitamin B12, along with supplements of vitamins A and C, iron and zinc, to treat CFS. But a balanced diet is preferable to taking supplements.

• Another approach that appears hopeful is for patients to take a combination of evening primrose oil and fish oil; in one study, 85 percent reported some improvement after 15 weeks.
• Caution is needed when taking herbal remedies — many contain potentially harmful stimulants.
• Magnesium is associated with the contraction and relaxation of muscles. Getting more of the mineral may help alleviate muscle tenderness in people with CFS.Good food sources include sunflower seeds, avocados and amaranth.

These vegetables are especially helpful in improving blood flow.

• After chopping garlic, let it rest for 10 minutes prior to cooking it. This will allow the allicin and its potent derivatives to be activated and unleash the full nutritional power of garlic.

Avoid alcohol.

• Alcohol lowers immunity, so should be avoided, and caffeinated drinks should be used in moderation to minimize sleep problems.