Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disease, which is characterized by very heavy tiredness, which lasts for over six months. The factors that can cause the condition are complex and it is impossible to be diagnosed in laboratories. Be that as it may, some scientists believe that the syndrome can be caused by an imbalance of the adrenal gland or inflammation in the body. If chronic fatigue is not treated in a timely manner, it can have the following consequences: decreased endurance, memory and concentration. 

Symptoms of chronic fatigue 

Even though the term “chronic fatigue” is very descriptive of this negative diagnose, it does not picture the whole truth. Chronic fatigue often unleashes unexpectedly, with symptoms similar to a cold. However, unlike cold, if fatigue is not treated, it can last for the rest of your life. Apart from excess tiredness, the syndrome is characterized by:

• Joint pain
• Muscle pain
• Poor concentration
• Loss of memory
• Inflammation of the lymph nodes
• Headache
• Chills
• Night sweats
• Digestive disorder 

Causes of chronic fatigue syndrome 

To date there is very little information about the chronic fatigue and the reasons for it is still unclear. According to some preliminary findings, fatigue is caused by several main factors, including: hormonal disbalance, immune response disturbance, viral infections, chronic hypotension, dietary deficiencies.

In addition, researches show that the chronic fatigue syndrome can be linked to oxidative stress, celiac disease and food intolerance or food allergy. 

Steps for overcoming chronic fatigue syndrome 

Conventional methods for treatment of the syndrome typically focus on the symptoms and do not concentrate enough on the root of the condition. People suffering from the disease are often given antidepressants or sedatives. In many cases the side effects of these medications are far worse than the symptoms of chronic fatigue. 

Instead, B – complex, alternative health practices, a well – balanced dietary regimen, rich in potassium and magnesium and exclusion of allergenic foods are recommended. 

Step 1: Exclude food that you have intolerance or allergy to

More and more researches point to the relationship between food allergies and intolerance to some products and chronic fatigue syndrome. Allergies to certain foods (gluten, lactose, casein, peanuts, milk and dairy products, soy, crustaceans, yeast, etc.), pollens, metals and chemicals in the environment can all be leading to the increasing number of cases of chronic fatigue.

According to a study, fibromyalgia (chronic pain, tension and fatigue in muscles, tendons and joints, without inflammation) is closely linked to chronic fatigue. Scientists came to the conclusion that fibromyalgia is caused by poor digestion and sensitivity to certain foods and significantly intensifies chronic fatigue symptoms. 

Step 2: Increase intake of vitamin B

Researches focus on the benefits of vitamin B6, riboflavin and thiamine. Scientists believe that B6 (pyridoxine) is of particular importance for treatment of chronic fatigue. Natural sources of vitamin B6 are: salmon, bananas, organic beef, sweet potatoes, turkey, hazelnuts, garlic and cooked spinach. Vitamin B6 helps treatment and soothing of chronic fatigue symptoms and supports the work of the immune system. B6 assists the activity of white blood cells, which enhances the body’s immune response to infections and stimulates self – healing. 

Vitamin B12 increases energy, reduces depression, prevents neurological degeneration and protects against cancer. B12 is important for mood improvement, stimulation of cognitive functions and increased performance. Food rich in B12 are: organic cattle liver, sardines, tuna, fresh cheese, cottage cheese, lamb, raw milk, eggs, wild salmon. If you are following a diet that excludes the latter foods, you can provide your body with the necessary vitamins with the help of dietary supplements. Your organism needs such supplements because they support metabolism, hormone synthesis and increase energy levels in the body. 

Acti B12 is an excellent product that can help you boost levels of vitamin B12 in the blood. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is vital for a number of processes, taking place in the cells of the body. It is important for fatigue reduction, the normal functioning of the immune system and for balancing the work of the nervous system. 

Step 3: Increase intake of magnesium and potassium

According to some researches, reduced levels of magnesium not only affect the number of red blood cells in the organism, but also provoke chronic fatigue syndrome. If you want to protect yourself from this disease, it is a good idea to add the following foods to your menu: spinach, kale, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, kefir, almonds, black beans, avocado, figs, dark chocolate, bananas. Magnesium helps to overcome chronic fatigue, maintains nerve functions, regulates blood sugar levels and blood pressure. 

Potassium is responsible for the electrolyte balance in the body. Food rich in potassium are: avocado, spinach, sweet potatoes, coconut water, kefir, yogurt, white beans, bananas, pumpkin, dried apricots, mushrooms. Symptoms of potassium deficiency coincide with those of chronic fatigue syndrome: fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms. Consuming foods or supplements, rich in potassium, can relieve the latter symptoms. 

Step 4: Provide yourself with time for rest and relaxation 

Chronic fatigue syndrome causes physical, as well as mental problems. People suffering from exhaustion, reduced brain activity, chronic muscle and joint pain, stress and even guilt, often experience substantial health damage. Long – term stress control and relaxation are the building blocks of overcoming this condition. It might seem impossible at first, but you should really try to do everything in your power to handle stress in a healthy manner and give yourself a break from all that puts pressure on you.

Step 5:  Reduce intake of stimulants 

Caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products should be avoided as they can further intensify anxiety. Furthermore, you should strive to exercise at least four hours before going to bed. Intense workouts and exercise cause adrenalin spikes and could lead to restless sleep.