Many doctors recommend that patients of chronic fatigue syndrome take a variety of nutritional supplements to strengthen their bodies and help improve the functioning of their immune system. For some people this may mean making a great deal of dietary modification while for others it may simply mean adding in a magnesium supplement to be taken once or twice per day. Eating well should be a top priority for every CFS patient and this means consuming the right foods that will provide you with an adequate supply of vitamins, minerals and nutrients. When you are suffering under a great deal of stress nutritional supplements are even more important for the health of the CFS patient.

Vitamin C is so important when stress is hovering nearby and potatoes are an excellent source of this vitamin as they are full of phytonutrients. Phytonutrients help to keep the immune system on track and they also are good at fighting free radical damage in the body. Baked potato skins in particular are full of dietary fiber. It is dietary fiber that helps to encourage a smoothly run digestive system and keeps such problems as stomach discomfort and constipation at bay. Other excellent sources of vitamin C include cabbage, cantaloupe, sweet peppers, strawberries and citrus fruits such as apples and oranges.

The mineral calcium plays an important role in regulating the rhythm of the heart and it also helps with the functioning of muscles and nerves. The body has a difficult time absorbing calcium when it is fighting stress. To rid yourself of this concern it is advisable to decrease the amount of caffeine you consume on a regular basis as well as to eat smaller and more frequent meals. Excellent sources of calcium include dairy products, almonds, broccoli, leafy green vegetables, tofu, kidney beans and sardines.

Magnesium goes hand in hand with calcium so make sure you get enough of both, especially when you are stressed. The mineral magnesium is responsible for calming and relaxing both muscles and nerves and it makes a peaceful night's sleep a great deal more possible. Magnesium helps to relieve tension in the muscles as well as migraine headaches, depression and nausea. Excellent sources of magnesium include bananas, black beans, spinach, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, figs, squash, soybeans and chard.

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that encourages the proper functioning of the heart and circulatory system and it also reduces high blood pressure. Omega-3 is also good at alleviating extreme tiredness, poor concentration and depression, things that can all occur as a result of stress. The best sources of omega-3 are salmon, tuna, halibut, herring, mackerel, flaxseeds, nuts, and dark leafy green vegetables such as Bok Choy. It is important to keep in mind that there is mercury in fish so keep your levels of fish consumption in moderation. Canned tuna tends to have low levels of mercury in it and light tuna consists of a lesser amount of mercury than does white albacore tuna. Canned salmon is fine but it too has traces of mercury in it. Be smart about your supplements as well as your choice of foods but do not become too strict with yourself or you will never stick with your chosen diet. 

Tags: chronic fatigue syndrome, nutritional supplements, omega 3