What Are The Natural Ways To Fight Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is medical condition characterized by extreme fatigue after physical or mental exertion which is unrelated to any underlying condition. There is a bad phase with low energy, relapses and periods of remission. During the low energy phase, even just taking a shower or brushing one’s teeth becomes a difficult task. CFS is classified as a disorder, not a true disease as there is no known cause and cure for it.
Other common symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are headache, muscle and joint pains, sore throat, incomplete or unrefreshing sleep, lack of concentration, impaired memory, tender lymph nodes, weight changes, feeling cold, tooth and jaw pain, mood imbalance, depression and anxiety and in some cases increased allergies.
According to some, Chronic Fatigue is a result of thyroid dysfunction, hormone imbalance, viral infection while some relate it to immune system dysfunction. It is also related to digestive dysfunction. Factors leading to CFS are mainly unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, toxic environment and microbes.
There are some natural ways to fight chronic fatigue syndrome. These include:
Exercise and Yoga
Little stretching and light exercise help in reducing fatigue to a great extent. Regular walking keeps one active and strong. Exercise should not be done in one stretch, it should be broken into segments with breaks in between. Wall pushups, hand stretches, sitting and standing, picking objects are all light exercises that can be done by the patient. Practicing restorative yoga is a great way to circulate blood flow to the areas of the body where flow is restricted. It helps in stretching ligaments and generates endorphins, thus relaxes the body and mind.
Sleep
The patients with CFS suffers from insomnia. Getting adequate sleep gives more energy and muscle strength to the patient. Sleeps always helps in boosting the energy levels and healing the muscles overnight.
Nutrition
A well balanced diet supplies the body with proper nutrients that are necessary for healing and promotes the growth of normal microbes in the gut. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be a part of daily diet. It is recommended to avoid sugar, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and caffeine to keep energy levels in control. One should eat several small meals throughout the day to keep up the energy levels. A diet rich in polyunsaturated fats and mono unsaturated fats is recommended. Freshly prepared food is the best.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is very important for healthy cellular functions. Water is the best option, followed by fruit juices, lemon water, teas flavored with honey.
There are some natural herbs and supplements that help in boosting immunity, restore cellular function, that posses anti-microbial properties and also act as anti-depressant. Some of the beneficial herbs to fight CFS are listed below:
Valerian Root
This naturally occurring plant has the power to act as an anti-depressant. It can be taken as a supplement or boiled as a tea. It works in improving the mood swings and helps the patient sleep better.
Licorice Extract
Licorice is an anti-inflammatory herb which can be taken by CFS patients to deal with chronic pains. It also helps to combat low blood pressure that leads to dizziness in the patients.
Siberian Ginseng
Ginseng herb helps in increasing energy and combating fatigue. Siberian Ginseng is very useful in elderly patients as it helps them with declining memory.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo is a great herb to help with improving cognitive function which includes concentration and memory enhancement. It is an excellent antioxidant and also helps in improving the blood flow to the brain. Ginkgo supplements are easily available in stores.
Melatonin
Melatonin is the hormone that is naturally produced by the body to help sleep better. Melatonin supplements are readily available in the stores. All supplements should be taken after consulting a doctor as overdose can be dangerous in some cases.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a compound involved in
Some herbs called adaptogens (immune modulating) helps in balancing the hormones and neurotransmitters in the body. Thus, they help in overcoming stress and improving stamina of the patient. These include reishi, cordyceps, rhodiola and rehmannia.
According to Ayurveda, the only way to fight CFS is by improving digestion and eliminating toxins out of the body. The imbalance of Vata dosha is the main cause of CFS. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Amla, Bala, Triphala, are very helpful in treating the condition. Some herbs that calm the nervous system and promotes a good night sleep are bacopa, passionflower, and motherwort.
It is advised for CFS patient to take at least 5 grams of Ribose (as a supplement) to help with Chronic Fatigue symptoms. Taking D-ribose helps in alleviating pain, and overcoming sleep problems.
It is also recommended to increase the intake of Vitamin D (either by exposing oneself to the sunlight or by taking Vitamin D supplements daily). Vitamin D deficiency often leads to pain and fatigue.
Increase the intake of Omega 3 fatty acids to fight inflammation, and support a healthy heart and cognitive functions. Viruses reduce the ability of cells to make essential fatty acids, so supplementing with them correct the disorder. Probiotics are also good for CFS patients. Flax oil and fish oil are best ways to get the fatty acids.
Getting Acupuncture, body massages, reiki and polarity therapies, saunas etc. are also some ways to overcome chronic fatigue.
Dealing with a condition such as chronic fatigue syndrome can be very challenging. It seems like life has been drained out from the body. The condition takes a toll on personal relationships and keep one away from active social life. This condition should be taken seriously. Healing takes time, from months to years. It requires lots of patience to overcome the problem.
