I asked a question a while back to see which multiple sclerosis symptoms most affect our daily lives. Most people complained about their fatigue. Each individual experiences MS differently but the majority of us are united in our fight for energy against fatigue.
So I decided to write a post about foods that we can increase to help with energy and can help you get through the day. We have all heard about what foods are good for you but I am going to do my best to explain what those foods actually do for your body. I will also explain why those nutrients bring energy.
Fiber: Fiber is a complex carbohydrate, so it aids in digestion and helps you stay full so you aren’t reaching for that candy bar. Also when your body breaks down complex carbohydrates like fiber with protein, it increases your blood glucose in a natural way. Natural energy!
Food Source: apples, brown rice, quinoa, blueberries, avocado, soybeans, peas
B Vitamins: B vitamins are also known as “energy vitamins” because there are different forms of vitamin B that are all essential for your body to not only produce energy but to actually break down and use energy.
Food Source: spinach, eggs, bananas, lean meats, broccoli, asparagus, tuna, brussels sprouts
Iron: Iron is actually what carries oxygen through your red blood cells to the rest of the body. And because oxygen is necessary to metabolize energy, iron is going to be important for preventing fatigue.
Food Source: artichokes, red meat, spinach, dried fruits, clams, scallops, dark leafy greens
Magnesium: Magnesium is necessary to for the production of energy molecules in the body. I won’t get go too deep into the scientific explanation but a deficiency in magnesium will definitely play a role in worsening your fatigue.
Food Source: spinach, tofu, soy, scallops, whole wheat bread, halibut, peanuts, almonds
Antioxidants: Antioxidants don’t have a direct connection to your energy level but it has such a strong and preventive impact on you and your body. By eating foods that are rich in antioxidants you are helping your health overall and in doing so helping how well your body functions. An efficient body will be more energized and less impacted by fatigue.
Food Source: berries, beets, artichokes, brussels sprouts, spinach, nuts, pomegranates, peppers
Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are good for your body. Similar to antioxidants, they don’t have a direct connection to how your body produces energy. But there is a proven connection between Omega-3 deficiencies and people suffering from chronic fatigue. These fatty acids also help with brain function and depression as well.
Food Source: salmon, mackerel, arugula, cauliflower, oysters, tuna, flaxseed oil, fish oil, shrimp
Many of these listed food sources are packed with other vitamins and nutrients that are great for a healthy diet. Increasing your physical activity also helps with your metabolism and energy level.
Remember that I mention in my book MS Living Symptom Free, and on my Facebook page, the vitamins and supplements I also take to help me with my fatigue and other symptoms I encounter because of my MS.
Stay strong everyone!