Having to leave work due to fatigue is a reality for many people with chronic diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS). In fact, it ranks as the top complaint for patients with MS and those who suffer traumatic brain injury. Traditional treatments to alleviate fatigue often provide only slight relief. However, patients may find benefits through adopting dietary and lifestyle changes that can improve quality of life and reduce the need for medications.
As a clinical professor of medicine and someone who suffered an intense decline from MS, I decided to focus on the research that would lead me to make vital changes in my personal dietary and lifestyle habits. These changes ultimately allowed me to transform my life, increasing my energy, stabilizing my mood, and reducing my pain to eliminate my chronic fatigue in less than six months. Now, I teach others how to adopt these lifestyle shifts in order to regain control over their lives.
Combating Fatigue through Diet
By improving the quality of a patient’s diet, it is possible to see a significant improvement in the severity of their fatigue. Certain steps must be taken to ensure the patient is consuming an adequate and appropriate variety of nutrients.
- Increase Vegetables and Berries: It is crucial for patients to consume between six and nine cups of vegetables and berries every day. This means getting a balanced combination of leafy greens, sulfur-rich vegetables, and deeply colored fruits and vegetables. The additional vitamins and minerals promote overall improved health, providing the body with the right tools to combat fatigue.
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Eliminate Gluten and Casein: Removing gluten-containing grains and casein (a type of dairy protein) from the diet is an essential step in improving fatigue symptoms. Removing these elements allows for better digestion and can lead to improved brain function and overall health.
Incorporating Physical Activity
Physical activity plays a vital role in battling the symptoms of fatigue. Each patient should work closely with a physical therapist to create an exercise program tailored to their specific needs and limitations. Programs should include stretching, balance training, and strength training.
By working regularly with a physical therapist, patients can develop essential motor functions that can aid in reducing the severity of fatigue symptoms. This will allow them a greater level of day-to-day activity, resulting in an improved quality of life.
Using Holistic Methods for Autoimmune Conditions
Examining a person’s entire ecosystem is an effective method for addressing autoimmune conditions and other associated health issues. By implementing dietary and lifestyle changes, it is possible to find relief from the symptoms of chronic diseases and even regression of disability. The Therapeutic Lifestyle Clinic at the University of Iowa has seen incredible success with this approach, helping patients improve their health and revitalize their lives.
To learn more about incorporating dietary and lifestyle changes to improve energy, stabilize mood, enhance motor function, and reduce pain, visit www.terrywahls.com. To start incorporating these changes and learn more about the underlying scientific concepts, check out my book The Wahls Protocol and begin your journey to improved health.
