Diet Therapy - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency may also be a problem for CFS patients. Magnesium and malic acid assist in initiating the Krebs cycle, a series of biochemical reactions that transform nutrients into energy. In a recent study, twenty people with CFS were compared with twenty healthy volunteers. The blood magnesium content of the CFS patients was found to be significantly lower. In another study, thirty-two patients with CFS were given intramuscular injections of magnesium. Eighty percent of those receiving the magnesium had reduced symptoms and improved energy while less than 20 percent of those on placebo injections reported improvement. Take a combination formula that supplies 100 milligrams of magnesium and 300 milligrams of malic acid three times daily, twenty minutes before each meal, for six to eight weeks.

Vitamin B-12

A New Zealand study found that injection of vitamin B 12 in CFS patients helped normalize imbalances in their red blood cells.

The B vitamins, especially pantothenic acid, B2 and B6, are depleted in stressful situations. They lend the nerves support and help build reserves. Fortified yeast supplements are excellent sources of B vitamins and provide the body with extra energy.

Evening primrose oil has proven helpful when taken over several months. The gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in evening primrose oil is anti-inflammatory, reducing the aches and pains and other symptoms associated with the disease.

Vitamin C is excellent for the immune system and helps to fend off colds and flus, common to chronic fatigue sufferers.

Vitamin A is essential for the production of antibodies necessary to fight viral infections.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, ensuring that vitamin A is not destroyed by oxygen, and improving the supply of oxygen to the cells.

Chlorella is a replenishing supplement. It contains high amounts of chlorophyll, which detoxifies and helps destroy viruses. Blue-green algae, another green food, focuses on strengthening the immune system.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and other friendly bacteria are necessary for a healthy immune system and are often lacking in those with chronic fatigue, especially if antibiotics have been taken.

Bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapple, and proteolytic enzymes help reduce inflammation. Take 500 milligrams of either of these enzymes twice a day, between meals.

Digestive Enzyme Supplement: The digestion and assimilation of nutrients are often compromised in people with chronic fatigue syndrome.  Take a full-spectrum digestive-enzyme supplement containing 5,000 international units of lipase, 2,500 international units of amylase, 300 international units of protease, plus 500 to 1,000 milligrams of pancreatin, with each meal.

Note: Long-term supplementation with pancreatin is not advised, as it can cause your pancreas to reduce its own production of this important enzyme. Overuse also has the potential to cause nausea or diarrhea  . After two months on pancreatin, discontinue use and monitor your reaction. If you find that your problems recur, discuss pancreatin supplementation with your health-care provider.