Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can last for years, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities. Many people who have it find themselves struggling to perform at work or in school or even socialize with others because of the negative impact it has on self-esteem. Fortunately, there are supplements and vitamins that can help manage the symptoms effectively. If you or someone you know is dealing with CFS, this blog post will prove invaluable. It sheds light on everything worth knowing about the condition and lists the best vitamins and supplements that provide the best results.
What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex and long-lasting disorder that causes chronic muscle pain, headaches, impaired memory or concentration, and trouble sleeping for at least 6 months without any particular cause. Also known as systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID), the disorder causes extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve even with rest or sleep.
CFS is a serious medical condition, and it can have an impact on mental and physical health and ultimately the smooth running of day-to-day activities if left untreated. Understanding its symptoms and causes can help determine the best treatment approach [1].
Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
While fatigue (both mental and physical) is a hallmark symptom of CFS, there are a variety of other symptoms people with the disorder may experience. The most common ones include:
- unrefreshing sleep;
- muscle or joint pain;
- problems with memory or thinking skills;
- drowsiness that worsens while switching from a sitting or lying position to standing.
In some cases, people with the disorder may experience headaches, mood changes, sore throats, cognitive difficulties, and increased sensitivity to light, sound, smells, food, and medications. At this point, it is worth noting that the symptoms may vary from individual to individual. Also, the severity may vary from day to day [2].
Although researchers are yet to ascertain the exact cause of CFS, it’s widely believed that hormonal imbalances, viral infection, immune system dysfunction, and certain other factors have a role to play. Diagnosing the disorder can be quite tricky, as there are no specific tests available for it. However, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has laid down guidelines. It requires doctors to consider diagnosing CFS if the patient experiences unwarranted fatigue that started recently, has lasted a long time, or keeps recurring and impedes regular activity over time [3]. The institute also outlines a number of symptoms, including unrefreshing sleep, muscle pain, palpitations, etc., to help determine the causes and diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
CFS has no known cure. However, there are various treatment options that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life of people living with it. Some of them are given below.
Therapy
Therapy from healthcare experts can help CFS patients handle depression and related symptoms that are often associated with it. It plays an important role in helping to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder. For example, it helps patients learn to cope with some disruptive symptoms and eliminate negative thoughts and behavior that can trigger a vicious cycle of fatigue and disability. The forms of therapy may include graded exercise therapy (GET), occupational therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
GET typically involves gradually increasing the levels of physical activity to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. Occupational therapy involves helping CFS patients engage in meaningful activities and developing strategies that may help them manage the daily challenges caused by the disorder. CBT is a talk therapy structured to help patients to get rid of negative thoughts and behavior and improve skills that will help them manage their symptoms. Therapy is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to help speed up recovery.
Medications
While there are no specific medications approved to treat SEID, some prescription drugs or over-the-counter meds can help improve some of the associated symptoms. For example, antidepressants may be prescribed to address depression, anxiety, and related symptoms [1]. On the other hand, wakefulness-promoting meds such as Modalert (modafinil) may be used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness.
It is worth noting that vitamins and supplements are also commonly used, as they provide nutritional support and can address deficiencies that may fuel CFS symptoms. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplement.
What Vitamins and Minerals Are Necessary for Chronic Fatigue?
Certain nutrients play a crucial role in promoting wakefulness, boosting energy levels, and improving overall well-being. Here are minerals and the best vitamins for chronic fatigue.
Vitamin D
While vitamin D is essential for overall health, it is also important in the fight against CFS. Research has shown a strong link between the deficiency of this nutrient and chronic fatigue. In one study conducted, 77.2% of the participants (CFS patients) were found to have the disorder. However, after increasing their body levels of vitamin D, their symptoms improved [4]. This goes to show that consuming foods rich in vitamin D (egg yolks, fatty fish, etc.), taking supplements that contain it, or getting adequate sun exposure will help greatly.
B Vitamins
B vitamins, which include folate, B6, and B12, play an important role in the production of energy at a cellular level. This helps in the conversion of food into energy, as well as maintaining the proper functioning of the nervous system. Some great sources of B vitamins include legumes, leafy greens, whole grains, fortified cereals, and lean meats. Taking supplements to augment the food source may be helpful, but it should be done with guidance from a healthcare expert.
Coenzyme Q10
Much like B vitamins, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) equally plays a vital role in the cellular production of energy and the strengthening of the immune system. It is a naturally occurring antioxidant, and it helps convert food into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is what energy source the body runs on. This antioxidant can be gotten from meat, fatty fish like trout, mackerel, etc., and nuts, among others [5][6].
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that aids in muscle relaxation, energy production, nerve function, and some other vital biochemical reactions in the body. Some research suggests a link between magnesium deficiency and chronic fatigue syndrome [7]. Major sources of this mineral include whole grains, dark leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and seeds. In the case of serious deficiency, supplements can be taken to top up. However, it is important to use them only with the guidance of a doctor or healthcare provider.
The Best Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue in 2023
There are quite a number of energy supplements that claim to be effective, but as you’d expect, not all of them really work. If you’re looking for the best ones to combat the symptoms of CFS and boost your energy levels without unnecessary side effects, here are the top products to consider in 2023.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola rosea is a popular and commonly used adaptogenic herb with powerful anti-stress & anti-fatigue properties and energy-boosting capabilities. It is also known to enhance both physical and mental performance and improve overall well-being when used correctly.
Ashwagandha
Also known as winter cherry, this medicinal herb is native to certain parts of the Middle East, Africa, and India, where it has been used for many years to reduce stress and elevate mood. Research has shown that ashwagandha may enhance cognitive abilities, reduce stress levels, and improve the mood of most people who take it [8]. The compound is also known to boost vitality, promote resilience, and boost overall physical and mental well-being.
Modalert
Modalert is a brand name for modafinil, the “world’s first safe ‘smart drug,’” as stated by researchers at Oxford and Harvard universities. It belongs to a class of drugs called wakefulness-promoting medications and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat narcolepsy and certain other sleep disorders. Modalert can help tackle excessive daytime sleepiness, improve mood, and, if used properly, improve sleep quality.
Many users have said that it helped them effectively eliminate excessive daytime drowsiness, boost energy levels, and ultimately improve their overall well-being. If you’re not sure where to buy Modalert 200 mg or any other modafinil-based drug, be sure to source it from a reputable vendor, e.g. ModafinilXL, that has a proven track record of satisfying customers.
Modalert is safe. It has relatively few side effects and an incredibly low potential to cause dependence. However, as with all other medications, it remains important to consult a doctor before taking it.
Everest Gummies
Everest gummies are multivitamin gummies specially formulated to provide essential nutrients that boost energy levels and improve the overall well-being of its users. The gummies come packed with a fine blend of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that help combat extreme fatigue and promote vitality.
Elm & Rye Caffeine Supplements
Elm & Rye caffeine supplements are natural supplements designed to increase alertness and combat fatigue. These products serve as a convenient way to boost energy levels, especially in situations of extreme tiredness or low energy.
ProHealth Energy NADH
ProHealth Energy NADH is a nutritional supplement developed specifically to boost energy production, sharpen mental focus, and support overall vitality. It contains a blend of all the important vitamins and minerals mentioned earlier, including CoQ10, magnesium, and B vitamins.
While these products all work effectively, always remember that it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement or medication. This will help you ensure that it is safe and suits your specific needs.
Conclusion
When it comes to combating chronic fatigue syndrome, incorporating vitamins and minerals into your diet is a great place to start. However, taking the best ones available can help speed things up while preventing unnecessary side effects. If you’re looking for something you can take frequently to constantly boost your energy levels, ashwagandha, Elm & Rye caffeine supplements, Everest gummies, or ProHealth Energy NADH are capable. However, if you’re interested in a product that will eliminate excessive daytime sleepiness, increase alertness and focus, and boost your energy levels, then Modalert may be the right product for you. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking any supplement or medication. Also, remember that supplements or drugs can never replace proper stress management, getting quality sleep, and overall self-care.
References
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | Diagnosis & Treatment. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Uchealth.org.
- Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). By Mayo Clinic Staff. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Mayoclinic.org.
- Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Nhs.uk.
- Is Your Chronic Fatigue Linked with Low Vitamin D? By Tanya Lee. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Citynaturopathic.ca.
- Coenzyme Q10: The Essential Nutrient. By Rajiv Saini. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
- 6 Foods High in CoQ10. Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors. Medically reviewed by Mahammad Juber, MD. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Webmd.com.
- Red Blood Cell Magnesium and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. By I. M. Cox, M. J. Campbell, and D. Dowson. Published: March 1991. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
- Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognitive Functions in Healthy, Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. By Kumarpillai Gopukumar, Shefali Thanawala, et al. Published: November 30, 2021. Retrieved: June 18, 2023. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
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