Food for Thought

In this article we discuss the effect some foods can have on sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This is Part 10 of a series of articles we have been featuring over the last few months relating to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Many sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) appear to experience a variety of food sensitivities and intolerances.

The immune system seems to become so overloaded and depleted from viral infections, overuse of antibiotics, stress, vaccinations, food allergies and exposure to toxic chemicals etc. that the body can no longer fight off these parasites and as a result, completely shuts down.

This is how I realised my immune system needed help when I was diagnosed with CFS. I needed to strengthen my immunity by firstly taking the load off my immune system. I started reading "The Liver Cleansing Diet" by Dr Sandra Cabot. It all made complete sense, the liver and the immune system are dependent on each other and are related organs. So, to take the load off the immune system I needed to cleanse the liver. It wasn't as though I was following a "strict diet"; it was more a case of eating healthier, more frequently and consuming more fresh fruit and vegetables. The book also taught me a lot about other varieties of foods and how to use them in different combinations; and the recipes are absolutely delicious.

After reading up on a wide range of foods, the best foods to help boost your immune system include apples, lemons, raspberries, cranberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants, guavas, papayas, mangoes, kiwi fruit, broccoli, kale, pak choi, cauliflower, bean sprouts and eggs. These foods are rich in Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent disease. Vitamin C is also a great source of fibre as is potassium.

Foods which can be great in assisting with CFS are prunes, dates, beetroot, bananas, parsnips, broccoli, bean sprouts and potatoes because of their nutritious value and their ability to build up resistance and increase energy levels.

Starchy foods such as potatoes and pasta are also vital for energy. Carbohydrates are stored in the liver and in the muscles, which is then broken down into glucose during activity. This provides an instant energy boost.

Since becoming ill with CFS I find that my body is now intolerant to many types of foods. Foods such as dairy products, processed foods, spicy foods, yeast products, and fried foods I now have to avoid, as they seem to aggravate my symptoms. I also need to keep away from alcohol, caffeine, and sugary substances, as these seem to really drain my energy. Unfortunately it is quite common for many with CFS to have to avoid these types of foods.

I had always enjoyed eating red meat up until my naturopath at the time told me that my liver was under a lot of strain dealing with CFS. I was told that by eating red meat I was putting even more pressure on my liver. So I cut out red meat completely. I thought I was doing my body a favour and giving my liver a rest but I seemed to lose weight, which I couldn't afford to do and I didn't really seem any better off. It was my family and friends who recently advised me to start introducing red meat back into my diet again. Meat is vital in building up the muscle tissues and is an excellent source of protein, rich in vitamins, B6, B12, iron, zinc, selenium and fatty acids. I never had been a huge meat eater but I do believe it has made a difference, and I now include it in my diet.

Many people with CFS experiment with eliminating different types of foods in their diet if they suspect an allergy. An allergy is an abnormal response from the immune system from substances such as food, dust, mould and pollens. Symptoms may include fatigue, vomiting, diarrhoea, rashes, dizziness, heart palpitations and bowl problems.

Allergies can be tested by a radioallergosorbent test, which is known as the (RAST test), this measures the amount of IgE antibodies to particular foods. If a high response is given then an allergen is usually present.

The traditional allergy test is done by the skin prick test; this is where a small amount of the allergen is inserted under the skin. If an allergen is present the area will become inflamed.

Energy is provided to us through food. Skipping meals can cause a deficiency of vital nutrients so it is important to have a nutritious well balanced diet. I try to aim for a range of the five basic food groups daily and eat everything in moderation. I believe that food plays a vital role in aiding with CFS by eating plenty of fruit, vegetables and carbohydrates. Drinking plenty of water is also important to flush the toxins away. By eating healthier you will feel better and hopefully your energy levels will increase too!

- S.C.