Chronic Fatigue

Home | Contact Us | Table of Contents | Colds, Flu, Vaccines

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Fibromyalgia are conditions of growing prevalence that arise as a direct result of loss of mitochondria (the energy production part of the body’s cells). Antibiotics and free radicals are the main culprit. When tiredness is the main complaint the diagnosis is chronic fatigue syndrome. When muscle and trigger point pain is present the condition is called Fibromyalgia. However many of the same symptoms are present in both illnesses.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue is estimated to affect over 250,000 individuals nationwide. The latest Center for Disease Control and Prevention definition holds that a patient must be suffering from unexplained, persistent or relapsing fatigue that is of new or definite onset, which is not the result of excess physical activity, not substantially relieved by rest, and has resulted in significant decline in previous levels of activity.

That being said the most common symptoms of chronic fatigue are:

1. Short term memory or concentration problems that interfere with work, education, school or social activities

2. Sore lymph nodes in the neck or armpits

3. Muscle and joint pain

4. Headaches

5. Waking unrefreshed from sleep

6. Malaise lasting a day or more after physical exercise

If a person suffers from four or more of the above symptoms they are usually diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). If they also suffer from multiple trigger point pain the diagnosis is Fibromyalgia. The trigger point areas are found at the major joint sites of the body: hips, neck, knees, etc. The primary compliant of people with CFS and Fibromyalgia is a profound loss of energy. Both conditions share a common theme of poor mitochondria function. Mitochondria are the sites within the cells where metabolic energy is produced. It is interesting to note that through the overuse of antibiotics, mitochondria are destroyed. Several nutritional experts are of the opinion that exposure to toxic substances and/or infection also leads to a “poisoning” of the mitochondria. Some recent studies have supported this idea.

The traditional medical system treats chronic fatigue primarily symptomatically, i.e.: sleeping pills, analgesics, antidepressants, stimulants, etc. This approach leaves a lot to be desired. Hence, more and more people are seeking a holistic approach to their illnesses. The underlying factors must be addressed if improvement over the long term is sought. This is why Dr. Bonnet designs a specific treatment program for every patient, since CFS sufferers have a diverse range of symptoms and etiologies.

There are many underlying factors that contribute to CFS symptoms. Common conditions like low thyroid function and anemia are part of the differential diagnosis. This means a comparison of symptoms between two or more similar diseases must be made to make the proper diagnosis. A combination of blood work and symptoms are crucial to this process. A simple test such as measuring the morning basal axillary (underarm) temperature for ten days can be very helpful for determining proper thyroid function when blood work is inconclusive.

People suffering from chronic fatigue will frequently have a number of co-factors, which are conditions that occur together. Candidiasis is the overgrowth of a yeast in the mucosal membranes resulting from the overuse of antibiotics, hormones and steroids, as well as a diet that is overly abundant in refined carbohydrates and sugar is a frequent co-factor. Food allergies can lead to candida overgrowth and various nutritional deficiencies. Through allergy testing and nutritional counseling food allergies and candida overgrowth can be brought under control.

The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) has been linked to chronic fatigue for quite a few years. EBV is the virus that causes mononucleosis. By the age of 40 over 95% of the world’s population has been exposed to EBV. Many people get a mild form of mononucleosis and dismiss it as a bad cold or flu. When levels of physical and mental stress are excessive the immune system becomes compromised and this can result in a reactivated EBV infection. Quality rest and enhanced nutritional support can re-establish immune function and improve energy.

Heavy metal toxicity can lead to many damaging effects, which result in fatigue. Heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic are stored in vital systems of the body such as the liver, kidneys and bone. They can also damage the central nervous system and the brain. Heavy metals suppress the immune system. Hair analysis is the most cost effective screening tool. Follow up blood work can provide additional information and rule out external contamination of the hair. Treatment with specific supplements and chelating agents helps the body detoxify the toxic elements.

Chemical sensitivity is a common complaint among CFS suffers. Chemicals in the form of household cleaners, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides as well as preservatives, colorings and additives in foods are placing a huge burden on the body. Because these compounds are ubiquitous limiting exposure isn’t always possible. Nutrients can enhance immune function as well as enhance detoxification mechanisms.

Improving the quality of rest is vital to overall energy and muscle recovery. Stress reduction and a well-designed exercise program will enhance sleep quality. Exercise is best done in the morning since it is energizing. It is also important to avoid caffeine and stimulant based medications that might interfere with sleep patterns.

Nutritional supplementation

Nutritional supplements are important for improving cellular energy production. In essence when the mitochondria are “resuscitated” a significant improvement of CFS symptoms are noted. The following list covers some of the most important supplements that are utilized for CFS: vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, essential fatty acids, malic acid, L-Carnitine and CoQ10. Immune supporting supplements like Monolaurin, L-Lysine, Garlic and Echinacea are all very helpful.

Diet

Dietary changes are frequently the most difficult to begin. The foods we eat not only provide macro and micronutrients (such as protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals) but also pleasure and enjoyment. An overly restrictive diet will oftentimes cause a “pleasure deficiency.” This is not the path to optimum wellness!

Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind when planning your diet:

1. Consume frequent, small meals (4 to 6 versus 3 “square” meals).

2. Consume high fiber foods such as whole grains, beans, legumes, vegetables and fruits. Optimal vegetable servings are 3 to 5 daily. (1 serving = 1 cup cooked or 2 cups raw)

3. Consume foods low on the Glycemic Index (GI). The GI rates many foods and their effect on blood sugar levels. (A separate handout provides information on the specifics of the GI). Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and diabetes are common conditions that can contribute to low energy levels. Using the GI along with specific nutrients helps the body re-establish insulin sensitivity. When the cells of the body don’t respond to the hormone insulin a tremendous amount of stress is placed on the body.

4. Reduce refined food consumption, i.e. candy, cookies, cake, chips, etc.

5. Learn to substitute high sugar foods and beverages with lower sugar alternatives. For example, choose sparkling water or dilute fruit juices over sodas.

6. Use unrefined oils for salads and cooking such as: olive or sesame. Stay away from hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated fats and oils like margarine that contain toxic trans-fatty acids.

7. Eat modest amounts of protein from animal sources such as meat, poultry, and eggs. Eat 1 or 2 servings a week of omega-3 rich, cold water fish like salmon, mackerel and herring.

Exercise

Many people would be quick to think that persons with CFS should not exercise. This is a misconception; in fact, exercise can significantly improve energy and mood level. At the same time CFS suffers should be careful not to overexercise. Since recuperation time is long it is important to focus on a less strenuous exercise program such as walking, bike riding, yoga and Tia Chi. Weight training and jogging is contraindicated for persons with CFS. More intense exercise can be added very gradually so as to prevent a relapse in symptoms. Supplementation with vitamin C, vitamin E, grape seed extract, CoQ10 and L-Carnitine 20 minutes before exercise has been shown to be helpful at enhancing energy and recovery.

Summary

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a complex condition that responds very effectively to the holistic approach that Dr. Bonnet takes with all his patients. Through nutritional supplements and homeopathy significant progress can be achieved. Along with natural medicines a properly designed diet and exercise program will also help a CFS sufferer to get back on the path to optimal wellness. Patience and perseverance are required along the way, but through a “healing partnership” the best rewards are ahead.

The Healing Partnership web site is designed for educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or prescribe but rather to provide material to help the reader better cooperate with his or her doctor in the natural goal of building health.

The Healing Partnership does not endorse any form of medical treatment. In times of serious illness, it is suggested that one obtain the professional advise of one's doctor.