Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition a feeling of stubborn exhaustion that sleep or rest does not always cure. There are many reasons for it, including stress, anemia, and insomnia. It is treatable, but should be treated sooner, as the long-term effects can be chronic illness or disability.
As the actual underlying cause of chronic fatigue syndrome itself is not completely understood, treatments often focus on symptom relief. The most important way to treat chronic fatigue syndrome is by making simple lifestyle changes. Keep reading to find out the best ways to deal with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Eating Habits
If you are in the habit of eating big meals and having large gaps between them, then this schedule could be contributing to fatigue. Going more than three hours without food can cause you to overeat at the next meal and usually eat too fast, resulting in metabolism and the digestive system being overworked. Therefore, more energy and blood flow will divert to these processes instead of to the brain. Blood sugar levels will also drop in the long periods when food is not being consumed. In order to avoid low energy, a good idea is to eat smaller meals more frequently, keeping your energy at a more constant level.
Exercise
It is generally recommended that adults do at least half an hour of exercise a day, and this will help boost energy and promote an overall sense of well-being. The endorphins and adrenaline released during physical activity give a natural energy lift, reducing the instances of tiredness in the future. It is important to make the most of the periods when you are not sleepy, as getting the motivation to exercise while in the grip of fatigue can feel impossible. If you do not currently exercise a lot, it is important to build up gradually in order to avoid overexertion, which can worsen chronic fatigue syndrome.
Sleeping
Insomnia or unrefreshing sleep can exacerbate the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, so dealing with sleep problems at the root cause should help your body feel more energized. Valerian is a natural herb that is known to naturally promote sleep. The improved sleep is a result of the relaxant effects of the herb. As with any medication or supplement, this should only be a short-term measure, and it must not be taken if you are using other medications, especially sleeping pills.
Since chronic fatigue syndrome has negative effects on all areas of life, it is important to deal with it swiftly and effectively. The self-help remedies in the article have been shown to be effective in many people, but there are many others that could be helpful. Read about a daily routine to avoid fatigue.
Sources
- Love, S. & Lindsey, K. (2003). Dr. Susan Love's Menopause & Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press.
- Menopause Centre Australia. (2013). Fatigue. Retrieved September 26, 2014, from http://menopausecentre.com.au/Symptoms-Fatigue-menopause
- National Health Service UK. (2013). Self-help tips to fight fatigue. Retrieved September 26, 2014, from http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/tiredness-and-fatigue/Pages/self-help-energy-tips.aspx