There's nothing strange about feeling mentally or physically exhausted on days where you put in extra effort to get through your daily routine. However, if your feelings of fatigue last for longer than 6 months at a time, or they don't improve with bed rest and can get worse after physical or mental exertion, then you may be struggling from a disorder called chronic fatigue syndrome. Chronic fatigue syndrome comes with a range of symptoms ranging from headaches, to severe muscle pains and insomnia.
There are no cures currently available for chronic fatigue syndrome, but many experts agree that the right lifestyle and dietary changes can help. Here, we'll look at 9 healthy foods to help fight chronic fatigue syndrome.
1.) Grains
Carbohydrates are one of the main sources of energy in the body. Whole grains can keep the digestive system working properly, and brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal are some of the healthiest products on the market. That's why grains are first on our list of 9 healthy foods to help fight chronic fatigue syndrome.
2.) Proteins
The best proteins for people with chronic fatigue syndrome usually include fish, meat, and eggs. Because animal proteins offer the highest number of essential amino acids, they have the best impact on your feelings of fatigue.
3.) Fats
Fats, like extra-virgin olive oil, can help to improve your heart function and assist with your cognitive health. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in omega 3, which improves memory and decreases cell death, making it essential to our list of 9 healthy foods that help fight chronic fatigue syndrome.
4.) Green Vegetables
All green vegetables are particularly beneficial for people suffering from the disorder. Researchers believe that patients have elevated levels of metHb, which is an indicator of oxidative stress. This shows that antioxidant treatment might help to reduce free radical damage in patients.
5.) D-Ribose
Research suggests that D-ribose, a type of five-carbon sugar taken from natural sources, can improve cellular energy synthesis in skeletal muscles and the heart. It also improves sleep, mental clarity, energy, and well-being in patients. D-Ribose can be found in almonds, chicken meat, and cheddar cheese.
6.) Green Tea
Green tea can help to limit oxidative stress. Green tea extract and catechin taken for a period of seven days can restore the glutathione levels in the brains of people suffering from the symptoms of fatigue.
7.) Blueberries
Blueberries have the highest antioxidant content of any fruit available today. Blueberries can help to protect the brain, and stop the red blood cells from suffering from any additional oxidative damage. They're a great addition to our list of 9 healthy foods to help fight chronic fatigue syndrome.
8.) Whey Protein
People with chronic fatigue syndrome often have weakened immune systems, which can mean that they're more vulnerable to illness and disease. Whey protein powders can help to boost the levels of glutathione.
9.) Turmeric
Finally, various researchers believe that the curcumin in turmeric can be effective at limiting the pain and fatigue-based discomfort caused by the disease. However, research studies are still being conducted.