Surprisingly, those with multiple sclerosis and women over the age of 50 share a similar problem. It's common knowledge that metabolism slows significantly for women over 50, leaving us feeling tired. Similarly, those with MS suffer from severe fatigue. As an MS sufferer and having passed the half-century mark, I know fatigue with a slowing metabolism firsthand. Fried after five, I know well.
Since
fatigue and loss of energy are common for both groups, it seems logical that
foods recommended for those with MS would also benefit women over 50. Through trial and error during my many years
with MS, constant research, and with advice from my doctors, I have come up
with a diet that works well for me. I
believe it can help others as well.
What foods speed up metabolism and relieve fatigue?
Eating
the typical three full meals each day slows our metabolism to a crawl. During the time it takes to process the meal,
we may feel tired. Then, we get a burst
of energy, but it wanes in between meals.
So, what can we do about it? We
can break this cycle with protein-rich food and healthy snacks heavy on B vitamins,
and magnesium.
Give me a "B"!
Foods
high in B vitamins assist the body to perform as it should. This is especially true for the central
nervous system, which is of concern for those with MS. In fact, when I was first diagnosed with MS,
I was so fatigued I had vitamin B shots once a week. Now, I just fortify myself with foods rich in
it, like broccoli, asparagus, roasted soy nuts, and melon.
Magnesium rhymes with gymnasium and more.
When
my doctor suggested increasing my magnesium intake years ago, I had no idea why. As I found out, this mineral is essential for
many of our body's daily operations, one of which is maintaining our energy
level. In fact, when my levels are low,
I crash. Thankfully, many of my favorite
foods contain a healthy dose of the stuff, such as edamame, green leafy vegetables,
nuts, peanut butter, and whole grains.
Fish, especially halibut, is swimming in it. So, on the plate it goes.
Fight back with protein!
Since
protein is a part of our cellular makeup and is used to build and maintain
tissue cells, it is essential to include healthy sources in our diet. It breaks down slowly and the effects last
much longer compared to other foods, which makes it an excellent energy
source. Healthy sources of protein such
as chicken and salmon fill my dinner plate.
Whereas oatmeal adorned with cinnamon and blueberries is my favorite
breakfast, offering me protein, vitamin B, and vitamin C.
Don't forget the healthy snacks!
We
can snack our way to a healthy body and a boosted metabolism. Nevertheless, we should do it correctly,
remembering to include foods with protein, B vitamins, and magnesium. In addition, we need to remember that these
are snacks, not meals, which makes portion control imperative.
For snacks, I dip the above-mentioned veggies in a small amount of hummus,
which is high in protein. My favorites
also include peanut butter on a slice of apple, grapes, hard-boiled egg, and whole-wheat
toast with cinnamon.
Is that all?
Beyond the foods mentioned, it is best for both MS sufferers and women over fifty to drink plenty of water and green tea and get plenty of rest.
Please
Read
Exercises
Every Woman Over 60 Should Include in Her Daily Routine
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