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The Alternative Medicine Section |
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The Alternative Medicine Section |
Alternative Medicine and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Part 3Vitamin C, one of the top antioxidants, helps neutralize free radicals in the body before they can damage other healthy cells; the immune system needs a lot of this vitamin to function properly. Vitamin C also helps the body absorb the iron needed to produce healthy red blood cells, which supply oxygen to all parts the body. Boosting vitamin C levels can help increase cellular metabolism, and help those with chronic fatigue to feel more energetic.Other supplements that have been shown to help strengthen the immune system include vitamin E, the trace mineral selenium, and beta-carotene, a carotene found naturally in many fruits and vegetables that is converted to vitamin A in the body (vitamin A has been shown to be particularly effective at guarding against viral and respiratory infections). Coenzyme Q10, a substance manufactured in the body that reacts with enzymes to help cells convert protein, fat, and carbohydrates to energy, has also been reported to significantly boost immune system function. Not only can coenzyme Q10 supplements help the body produce energy more efficiently, but studies have also shown that this substance offers even more protection from free-radical damage than vitamin C. Over 95 percent of those with chronic fatigue suffer from some form of mineral imbalance, particularly with respect to their magnesium levels. Magnesium helps muscles relax, reduces the incidence of migraine headaches, and contributes to the production of cellular energy; people with CFS may find that taking extra doses of this mineral helps relieve both muscle aches and fatigue. Magnesium also increases the effects of calcium, and these two minerals have been found to decrease the mood swings, depression, and painful cramping associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Many women suffering from chronic fatigue also suffer from severe PMS symptoms, so getting enough magnesium and calcium in the diet may be of great benefit. Most doctors and nutritionists recommend taking calcium and magnesium together at a ratio of 2 parts calcium to 1 part magnesium—these minerals work best when adequate supplies of both are available to the body. Some people with CFS have reported improvement in their symptoms as a result of taking certain herbal supplements. Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), supports both adrenal and immune system function. In one study, people taking Siberian ginseng showed an increase in both T-lymphocyte and natural killer cell levels, two types of immune system cells that are typically low in CFS sufferers. Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia, E. purpurea, E. pallida) is also an effective immune system enhancer, although some people have reported allergic reactions to this substance. People with CFS, who may have increased allergic reactions to foreign substances, should use this particular herb with caution. CFS patients may also benefit from herbal supplements traditionally used to fight viral infection. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), which have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years for treatment of a variety of illnesses, may provide CFS patients with increased antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial protection. In addition, reishi may help to calm anxiety and treat insomnia, and help those with chronic fatigue get the restful sleep they need to restore their severely depleted energy levels. Another herb with reported antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties is licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Licorice has been shown to increase levels of cortisol, an adrenal hormone that helps the body cope with stress, which is typically in short supply in most chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers. Topical extracts containing licorice extract and peppermint may offer pain relief to aching muscles and joints. However, it is important to note that oral supplements containing licorice are not recommended for long-term use, and should be avoided entirely by those with high blood pressure or heart or liver disease. Those that cannot take licorice may want to try taking supplements containing lemon balm (Melisssa officinalis), another herb that has been found to inhibit the action of several viruses, including the herpes simplex virus. For treatment of anxiety, depression, and insomnia, CFS sufferers may find some relief by taking supplements that are thought to have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, such as St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) and valerian (Valeriana officinalis). St. John’s wort is often recommended for treatment of mild to moderate depression, and has also been shown to help improve appetite, reduce inflammation, and increase energy levels in some individuals; while valerian is proven to induce sleep as effectively as some pharmaceutical drugs, without harmful side effects such as chemical dependency and morning lethargy often associated with these medications. Although there is currently no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome, there is some comfort in the fact that this illness is finally getting the serious attention it deserves—since 1995 the CDC has listed CFS on its list of “Priority 1 New and Reemerging Infectious Diseases.” In addition, symptoms of CFS tend to become less severe over time, and in rare instances go away completely on their own. However, until researchers discover a definitive cause or cure for this debilitating condition, patients with chronic fatigue syndrome may find that a medical regimen that includes nutritional or herbal supplements can help them to better cope with their symptoms, significantly improving their quality of life in the process. Return to Alternative Medicine and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Part 1 Destinations: Home page Antioxidants Herbs Vitamins Supplements Articles News Minerals Amino Acids Diets Skin Care Antiaging Health Foods Random Notes Health Nutrients |
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