Diet to Control Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia

By Mishaun Taylor

People who suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia are constantly searching for new protocols to help ease their suffering. However, there is one easy way to help control pain; adopting a new diet to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia symptoms.

Many doctors disagree on what should constitute a diet to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia symptoms. Most doctors recommend a low fat diet supplemented with a wide variety of vegetables. Some studies have suggested that green, yellow, and orange vegetables are best. It is also recommended that patients consume mostly cooked vegetables in order to avoid digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

The majority of doctors recommend that patients who are following a diet in order to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia symptoms should be careful regarding the fruit they consume. Patients with these disorders also suffer from hypoglycemia. Therefore, these patients should consume fruits that are lower in sugar in order to avoid insulin spikes.

Most doctors also advise patients to stick to lean meats, such as chicken, turkey, and fish. Individuals who are following a diet to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia symptoms should avoid red meat. Red meat is difficult to digest and can cause both gastrointestinal and systematic symptoms like joint pain.

Because many people who suffer from chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia also suffer from hypoglycemia, patients must carefully monitor their intake of carbohydrates. It is best to choose complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates in order to prevent irregular blood sugar levels. These swings can negatively impact mood and energy levels, which are already compromised by these disorders.

Because of the complex needs and symptoms of both disorders, there are many foods that a patient should avoid when on a diet to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia. These foods include:

• Sugar
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• MSG
• Sugar substitutes, such as aspartame and saccharin
• Yeast
• Bad fat
• Dairy products
• Wheat
• Oats
• Barley
• Rye
• Cereals
• Pasta

Although not a food, doctors do recommend that patients on a diet to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia symptoms avoid the use of tobacco.

There are many aspects to consider when establishing a new diet. When you are considering a diet to control chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia symptoms, it is important to talk with a physician and/or a nutritionist in order to create the diet that best meets your needs.