Fatigue

June 23, 2003

Energy-Enhancing Foods

Diet plays a major role in creating or relieving

the symptoms of fatigue. I’ve found that if women ignore the importance

of nutrition, they have a great deal of difficulty getting entirely

well. To be completely successful, you’ll need to learn how to Eat

Right for Your pH Type because your body’s acid/alkaline balance

is critical to restoring your energy level.

Get started by eating a high-protein breakfast

and lunch to increase productivity and energy throughout the day.

Then, to slow down in the evening and insure a better night’s sleep,

eat a lighter meal with more carbohydrates. The carbohydrates help

produce serotonin, which has a relaxing effect.

Plus, you’ll want to try adding some of these energy-enhancing

foods to your diet:

Sodium bicarbonate. This powerful alkalizing

agent gets rid of acid build-up in your body caused by aging, poor

diet, stress, and exposure to pollutants—restoring your energy

and stamina. Try 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate, plus

100-200 mg of potassium in tablet form, or 1/2 teaspoon of

potassium bicarbonate, plus 1/8 teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate.

Taken 45 minutes to 1 hour after a large or heavy meal will help

in digestion.

Starches. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and

yams are well-tolerated and provide an additional source of easy-to-digest

protein. They also contain vitamin A, boosting your resistance if

you’re prone to infections and allergies.

Legumes. Beans and peas are excellent sources

of energy-building calcium, magnesium, and potassium. They’re also

high in iron, zinc, and B vitamins. The high complex carbohydrate

and protein content helps regulate blood sugar levels — stabilizing

mood swings, anxiety, and energy levels.

Whole grains. Instead of wheat and gluten-containing

grains, try buckwheat, quinoa, and amaranth.

Seeds and Nuts. Seeds and nuts are an excellent

source of the two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid and linolenic

acid, as well as essential minerals and vitamins to alleviate fatigue.

Vegetables. Many vegetables are high in

calcium, magnesium, and potassium-important minerals that improve

stamina, endurance, and vitality.

Fruits. Fruits are an excellent source of

vitamin C, which is important for healthy blood vessels and blood

circulation throughout the body, as well as for antistress and immune

stimulant properties. Try raisins, blackberries, and bananas—excellent

sources of calcium, magnesium, and/or potassium.

Meat, poultry and fish. If you do want to

eat meat, your best choice is fish. The linolenic acid in fish,

helps relax tense muscles, a major cause of fatigue in women. Fish

is also an excellent source of minerals, especially iodine and potassium.

If you do include meat in your diet, eat only small amounts, 3 ounces

or less per day.

Note: You may need to add additional foods to the list above if

you suffer from severe anemia.