Vitamins for Chronic Fatigue

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Chronic fatigue, often known as the chronic fatigue syndrome, is a complicated disorder. Nutritional supplements, containing vitamins, prove to be important in treating this condition. Here, we have listed down the vitamins that play a vital role in the treatment of chronic fatigue.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a mystifying disorder, as it has several underlying causes. The fatigue can be mental or physical. Patients suffering from this syndrome do not find relief even after adequate sleep and rest. There can be several causes of this syndrome, and some of the known causes are listed here:

Viral infections, and infections caused due to a dysfunctional immune system Anemia or iron deficiency (usually, as a result of heavy bleeding) Depression and other psychological factors Hormonal changes Chronic, mild, or low blood pressure Medical history of allergies and Candida infections Genetic factors

The primary causes are not yet determined. However, recent researches have proved that this syndrome can be effectively treated using nutritional supplements. A balanced, healthy diet is needed for combating the fatigue syndrome. More curative results are observed in patients, who took nutritional supplements containing vitamins, along with a healthy diet.

Consulting a doctor, is extremely important when taking these supplements. The various vitamins included in these supplements can be explained as follows:

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin, and important anti-stress nutrient. It helps in maintaining the health of the skin and mucous membranes that line the lungs, mouth, digestive tract, cervix, and the bladder.

The skin and membrane tissues are taken care of, by vitamin A, thus, making it difficult for viruses and infections to affect them. It also facilitates the activity of T-cells. The T-cells help in improving the immune system and combating diseases.

Normal production of red blood cells is ensured, thus helping to cure anemia. Healthy functioning of the immune system is maintained by a gland in the lungs, called the thymus. The working of thymus is regulated using vitamin A. Beta carotene is a pro-vitamin and a precursor of Vitamin A.

It is water soluble, and is generally found in fresh fruits and vegetables. In chronic fatigue syndrome, pro-vitamins, like the beta carotene, work only in the preliminary stages. However, it is a strong antioxidant, and acts as a scavenger for the free radicals, strengthening the immune system.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B complex refers to the 12 types of vitamin B, responsible for the appropriate working of the metabolic functions in the human body. Vitamin B is a water soluble vitamin, and is easily lost when unhealthy food and beverages are consumed. Vitamin B regulates activities, like glucose metabolism and activity of estrogen hormone.

Folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 are the three essential vitamin B complexes. Fish, meat, and dairy products are the rich sources of vitamin B12. Vitamin B6 is essential in building an immune system, which can fight the Candida fungi, bacteria, and viruses.

The fatigue, mood swings, water retention, and food carvings related to the pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) in women, can be reduced by taking vitamin B6 as a supplement. Vegetable and fish oils are abundant in vitamin B6. Whole grains must be incorporated in daily diet to fulfill the requirements of all the B complexes.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin and it plays an important role in conserving the immune system. It C helps in fighting various viruses and infections, and maintains the white blood cells and necessary antibody production in the body. Vitamin C deficient people have elevated levels of histamine and are more susceptible to allergic attacks.

Anemia can be cured with vitamin C, as it helps in the absorption of iron from food in the digestive system. Anemia in women, is usually caused due to heavy menstrual bleeding during teenage, and also during menopausal period.

Bioflavonoids, along with vitamin C, help in reducing anemic conditions in women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding. They are the chemicals that cause pigmentation in plants and fruits.

Grape skin, blackberries, and cherries contain bioflavonoids in good amounts.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and has anti-histaminic properties. A healthy immune system can combat various diseases caused by infections, viruses, and bacteria. Anti-histaminic property of vitamin E provides screening for allergic attacks.

Chronic fatigue syndrome in women, caused due to menstruation, is treated using vitamin E supplements. Women, who cannot tolerate estrogen that is externally consumed, are advised to take vitamin E supplements. Wheat germ, fruits, seeds, vegetables, and nuts have an abundant source of vitamin E.

Vitamins necessary for the treatment of given condition, can be ingested through a balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables. Vitamin supplements also provide the necessary amount of these nutrients.

However, the supplements should be taken only with the approval of your health care provider. Some important self-care measures include, regular exercise, stress-free mind, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep and rest.