Supplements That May Help CFS
The amounts and types of supplements that are helpful for CFS is an individual matter often determined through trial and error. When possible, its best to work with a nutritionally oriented health professional who can help you develop a personalized supplement program based on your diet, symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. The following are all supplements that have been shown to be of value either in research or in clinical practice for CFS patients.
B vitamin complex: Vitamins B1, B2 and B3 play crucial roles in how the bodys cells produce energy. In addition, vitamin B6, folic acid and B12 prevent the buildup of homocysteine, which is at high levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of CFS and fibromyalgia patients. Suggested dose: 50 mg. B complex daily. NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide): A substance made from vitamin B3, involved in cellular energy production. A recent study showed that 31 percent of CFS patients had their energy improve after four weeks of supplementation. Suggested dose: 10 mg. daily. Alpha-lipoic acid: A vitamin-like substance that helps the body burn glucose for energy and increases cell levels of ATP, the substance that stores and releases energy. L-carnitine: Helps burn fats for energy. In one study, 3 grams of carnitine daily dramatically improved energy levels in people with CFS. Co-enzyme Q-10: Involved in another stage of energy production: CoQ10 helps move energy-containing electrons to promote the production of ATP for energy. Magnesium and malic acid: Two substances that also play roles in energy production. Red blood cell magnesium levels are usually low in CFS patients. One study found that a supplement containing malic acid and magnesium significantly reduced pain in FM patients after seven months. Zinc: An immune booster with anti-viral activity. Tissue mineral analyses reveal that individuals with CFS often have low zinc levels or high levels of copper or heavy metals that are antagonistic to zinc. |