6 Foods To Relieve Chronic Fatigue

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is a medical condition in which the patient feels tired physically and mentally. This tiredness might last for 6 months with no signs of improvement, even when the patient is getting ample rest. People suffering with CFS/ME find it difficult to take a shower or even move out of the bed. This condition is very difficult to diagnose as the symptoms are very common and can be similar to a lot of other diseases. The only way for a doctor to diagnose CFS/ME is to rule out diseases that have similar symptoms. Just like there is no specific test to diagnose this disease, there is no specific treatment as well.

What Are The Symptoms Observed In Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

People having this condition may experience either one or more of the below symptoms. They might include:

• Physical tiredness
• Waking up tired after a sleep
• Feeling worse after exercise
• Headache
• Muscle pain and
• Some people might also experience insomnia.

People have also reported loss of memory and focus as symptoms of CFS/ME. Not much research has been done on this condition as it was not considered as a disease by many doctors in the past. Recently, doctors have started recognizing CFS as a medical condition. While research is still underway, it has been noticed that having certain fruits and bringing about some changes in lifestyle can bring relief in symptoms of CFS.

Seasonal and fresh fruits that have high amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, make us feel fresh in the morning. Having fruits that keep us hydrated can also help in getting relief from symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Here are a few fruits that can help:

1. Apples Have Antioxidants Called Flavonoids

Apples have high amounts of fiber in them which makes them a healthy snack to feel energized. A study, in the journal titled ‘Horticulture Research’, shows that apples contain antioxidants called flavonoids which help in reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

2. Avocado Helps Sustain Energy Levels In The Body

Avocados contain good fats that energize the body. They also help produce fat-soluble nutrients and make them available to the human body. Avocados are considered beneficial for health for their overall health values and nutrients. As a study in ‘Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition’, trusted sources’ notes reveal that they contain nutrients, protein, and fiber that may help sustain energy levels throughout the day.

3. Bananas Are The Best Quick Snack To Have

Having a banana gives you energy required for a long bicycle ride. Bananas are not only a good source of natural sugar, but also are rich in Fibers that slow down the digestion process of those sugars. The body gets more and better yet, a sustainable energy when the digestion process of these sugars slows down. It also provides potassium and magnesium which makes you feel full of energy.

Pro Tip: Make sure the banana you consume is ripe, as a ripe banana gives out more nutrients than an unripe banana. When the fruit changes its color from green to yellow, it indicates the fruit is completely ripe and that the starch has been converted into sugars.

4. Berries Have Anti-Ageing And Anti-Oxidant Properties

Berries contain many nutrients and are good source of Minerals, Vitamin C and Folates. They also contain Phenols, which are required to create energy in the body at a cellular level. Berries such as Goji berries and Strawberries; Dark Berries like Blueberries, Raspberries and Blackberries are natural anti-oxidants when compared to the lighter berries. They also give a boost in the energy and satisfy sugar cravings at the same time. Berries have less sugar when compared to other fruits, making them a healthy and snackable option for people with diabetes as well. 

5. Oranges Are Rich In Vitamin C Which Helps Prevent Fatigue

Oranges are widely loved for their taste. Little did we know that they get their taste from the antioxidant commonly known as Vitamin C that is present in them. Vitamin C not only acts as an antioxidant but also helps reduce stress and fatigue in the body. A study in the journal ‘Antioxidants’ reveals that, young people with higher amounts of Vitamin C in their body tend to have a better mood and may experience lesser confusion, anger and depression when compared to others.

6. Watermelon Keeps You Hydrated, Which Improves Mental Alertness

Watermelons contain 92% water which is one of the highest among fruits. They also contain Vitamin C, Vitamin A and many other nutrients that help us stay hydrated. While it is said that dehydration increases feelings of fatigue, having a watermelon helps in staying hydrated and active.

The above fruits help in maintaining energy in the body and help fight symptoms of the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. However, there are certain foods that make you lethargic and worsen the symptoms. It is always recommended to avoid these foods if you have the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Here is a list of such foods:

Limit Caffeine Intake To One Cup Of Coffee A Day

Caffeine can give you an energy boost, but can make your conditions worse, once its effect is over. Drinks having caffeine tend to disrupt your sleep. People suffering with CFS/ME have a tough time in falling asleep, caffeine intake can only worsen the condition to insomnia. It is recommended that people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome avoid caffeine or at least restrict it to one cup a day.

Added Sugar Promotes Inflammation In The Body

Any form of processed sugar is a strict no for anyone. When it comes to people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, added sugar not only promotes inflammation in the body, but also consumes energy and nutrients from the body to process the added sugar. It is natural to have sugar cravings but having a fruit can not only satisfy your sweet tooth, but also gives you energy, the necessary nutrients, vitamins and fiber, in abundance.

Fried Foods Have Harmful Free Radicals

When foods are fried in oil, they are heated to such high temperatures that they produce harmful free radicals. These radicals when consumed, cause inflammation and may trigger symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It is always good to try alternative options of fried foods such as baked or boiled food. You can also steam or roast your food when you are at home to avoid the fried food.

The above-mentioned types of food are a strict no for people suffering with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. While having a good diet is always recommended, including workout and yoga in your lifestyle can help you feel good and fight the symptoms better. Working out for an hour or going for a walk or jog in the open not only boosts your energy levels but also helps you sleep soundly and wake up fresh.