Home Remedies to deal with Chronic Fatigue: Foods and Natural Treatment

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a poorly understood condition characterized by persistent tiredness, along with flu-like systems. Estimates suggest that approximately 3 in every 100 adults suffer from this condition in varying degree of severity. In most cases, this disabling disorder is associated with an attenuated and frail immune system. There are a host of home remedies and diet suggestions that can help in effective and natural management of this condition.

Chronic Fatigue is
common disorder

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

It is a medical condition that is characterized by profound and constant tiredness and exhaustion. CFS is more likely to affect women than men. The individual feels exhausted and extremely weak and may also suffer from depression. The condition can affect individuals of any age, however the condition is more frequently observed among middle age and elderly individuals.

While the exact cause of fatigue is not known, doctors say that a weak and impaired immune mechanism triggers its development. Those suffering from the disorder may also have auto-immune diseases such as lupus or thyroid dysfunction; and suffer from allergies.

Furthermore, infectious agents like the Epstein Barr virus and Candida yeast have been incriminated in some cases.

Some theories also suggest that low blood pressure, abnormal levels of some hormones and inflammation of the brain may cause 5his condition. Nonetheless, there is nothing conclusive so far.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Presenting features of this syndrome complex are:

• Constant or recurring weariness and exhaustion, lasting for 6 months and more; not better by rest.
• Difficulty in sleeping and insomina are common symptoms
• Difficulty in concentrating and carrying out day to day tasks
• Diminished memory
•  Frequent and recurrent Headaches
• Low grade fever, sore throat and body pain
• Melancholia and depression

Home Remedies to Treat Chronic Fatigue

The chief objective of the management plan is to restore the healthy working of the immune and defense mechanisms of the body. The following natural remedies and supplements have been recommended to treat this syndrome complex:

Echinacea is a natural herb
to fight fatigue

• Echinacea: Echinacea has powerful immunity enhancing effects; doctors recommend 200 mg of the herb, twice daily to pep up the immune system.
• Ginseng: Ginseng is a widely used Chinese herb that enhances the longevity and quality of life. It helps the body fight a whole range of illnesses. The herb stimulates the production of killer T cells of the immune system that annihilate harmful bacteria and viruses. Ginseng is a potent herb that will help overcome tiredness and exhaustion and balance the release of stress hormones within the body. 100 mg twice daily is recommended.
• Pantothenic acid supplementation: pantothenic acid or vitamin B5 helps bolster the adrenal glands which release hormone cortisol. Cortisol combats stress and augments energy levels. A supplement of 500 mg everyday is advocated.

Natural Treatment and Foods to manage Fatigue

Here are some dietary and lifestyle suggestions that can be useful in treatment of this syndrome complex,

• Foods that are rich in vitamin C: increase your intake of vitamin C rich foods. Vitamin C is an immune system fortifier. It perks up the functioning of the immune mechanism appreciably and fights of infections and free radicals, thus shielding the body from harm. Oranges, lemons,  bell peppers, papayas, chilies, mangoes and tomatoes are packed with the vitamin.
• Carotenoid rich foods: Carotenoid is the red, yellow and orange pigment that is found in most fruits and vegetables. It is a powerful disease-fighter and a potent anti oxidant. It scavenges free radical and destroys them. Carotenoids help to enhance immunity significantly. Food sources are: carrots, tomatoes, papayas, watermelon and guavas.
• Magnesium rich foods: Magnesium helps fight weakness, battles stress and decreases body pain effectively. Incorporate plenty of: leafy vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains; they supply the body with loads of this vital mineral.