Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a medical condition that plagues the sufferer with extreme exhaustion no matter how much rest he gets. CFS is often accompanied by muscle aches and pains, headaches, low grade fever, chills, mood changes and the inability to focus or concentrate. CFS could last weeks, months or years, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. There is no known cure but there are some treatment options available. Aside from medication, some vitamins have been found helpful in easing CFS symptoms.
Vitamin A
Chronic fatigue syndrome may be triggered by a virus. Since one of vitamin A's main functions is to increase T-cells, cells that fight off disease, taking vitamin A may help offset CFS symptoms and strengthen the immune system. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, vitamin A may also help chronic fatigue syndrome by ensuring proper production of red blood cells. If red blood cells are low, anemia may occur, which can cause severe fatigue. Vitamin A can be found in various foods such as cantaloupe, carrots, mangoes, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, kale and collard greens. It can also be taken as a supplement but due to toxicity, it is recommended that the individual consult a physician before using it.
Vitamin C
Since vitamin C is a natural immune booster and has the ability to fight off infections that may cause fatigue, CFS sufferers may want to incorporate some daily vitamin C. Vitamin C is also necessary for the production of adrenal gland hormones. For individuals who are under a lot of emotional and physical stress, a trigger for chronic fatigue syndrome, it is imperative to keep the adrenal glands healthy. Healthy adrenal gland equals less fatigue and exhaustion, says the website Healthy.net. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends at least 500mg of vitamin C daily if you have CFS but it is advised that you consult a doctor to make sure it is the right amount for you. If taking a vitamin C supplement does not agree with you, this vitamin is also abundant in fresh fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, cantaloupe, papaya, mango, pineapple, watermelon, tomatoes, green and red peppers, broccoli, turnip greens and other leafy greens, sweet and white potatoes, cauliflower, cabbage and winter squash.
B Vitamins
Vitamin B deficiencies may also cause fatigue. Using a vitamin B complex supplement may help chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers. However, it appears vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 deficiencies have the most detrimental effects on CFS because they can cause severe anemia. According to the University of Michigan Health System, taking 2,500 to 5,000mcg of vitamin B12 in the form of injections every two or three days for several weeks may resolve chronic fatigue syndrome. It is also recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center to take an additional 100mg of vitamin B6 along with a B complex. Since both vitamins B12 and B6 are important to red blood cell production, they can offset anemia, one reason for extreme exhaustion. B vitamins also enhance the immune system and help with the production of T-cells, making sure the body fights off diseases and viruses that would trigger CFS. Aside from supplementation, B vitamins can be found in foods such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs, dairy, leafy green vegetables, beans and peas.
