Limiting or avoiding high-fat foods can help you feel more energized while also reducing some fatigue-related symptoms.
Fatigue is quite common for many people, especially if we lead busy lives and cannot get enough sleep.
For approximately 2.5 million Americans, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) can significantly impact their quality of life. Individuals with this condition often experience severe fatigue, difficulty sleeping, joint pain, trouble concentrating, and swollen lymph nodes.
Sugary foods and drinks are not good for health. (Photo: CNN).
There is limited data shedding light on what individuals with this condition should or should not eat to manage symptoms. Some evidence suggests that probiotics, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), NADH supplements, cacao, and omega-3 fatty acids may play a positive role in managing symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, though more research is needed to confirm these links.
Additionally, consuming whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, is associated with reduced fatigue, which can benefit those affected by this condition (at least in terms of fatigue symptoms).
According to Eat This Not That, there is no specific diet for those suffering from “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome”, but certain foods contribute to the symptoms of this condition.
If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, here are five types of foods to limit or avoid to help you feel more energized.
Fatty Meats
Fatty cuts of meat tend to contain unhealthy fats.
Moreover, observational data published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics (JHND) indicates that consuming unhealthy fats is linked to symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
According to Eat This Not That, lean meats like white chicken, flank steak, and pork loin can provide some benefits.
Eating unhealthy fats is associated with symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. (Photo: Today).
Refined White Bread
Refined white bread tends to be low in fiber or completely devoid of fiber, depending on the brand you choose. Observational data published by JHND suggests that a low-fiber diet is associated with symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Therefore, you should opt for whole grain bread like sandwich bread or whole grain toast to provide more fiber to your body in the morning.
White bread is high in starch but low in fiber. (Photo: Shutterstock).
Candy
Candy primarily consists of sugar and other additives. Consuming sugary foods or unhealthy ingredients can lead to spikes in blood sugar, leaving your body feeling sluggish.
If you need something sweet, dark chocolate may be a better choice, as the polyphenols found in cacao are less associated with symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Sodas High in Fructose
NIH research indicates that consuming high-fructose corn syrup may lead to inflammation.
Since the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome reflect a state of low-grade inflammation, limiting the intake of inflammatory foods, such as sweet sodas, can help individuals feel better while managing this condition.
Sugary drinks pose many health risks. (Photo: Delish).
Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can result in several uncomfortable symptoms, including extreme fatigue and a dry mouth.
Therefore, to limit fatigue, you should avoid alcoholic beverages. Instead, opt for healthy drinks like water, pure fruit juice, or vegetable juice.
