Main environmental triggers of CFS:

CFS/ME may result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors. Our practitioners will aim to identify what issues you may be affected with. The following considerations are made regarding the possible root causes:

  1. Infections:

    • Viral infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus, HHV-6, or COVID-19).

    • Bacterial infections (e.g., Lyme disease, mycoplasma).

    • Infections can act as a trigger or worsen existing symptoms.

  2. Toxins and Chemicals:

    • Exposure to heavy metals (e.g., mercury, lead).

    • Environmental pollutants (e.g., pesticides, industrial chemicals).

    • Mold and mycotoxins in damp environments.

  3. Dietary Factors:

    • Poor nutrition or diets lacking essential nutrients.

    • Food sensitivities or allergies (e.g., gluten, dairy).

    • Consumption of processed foods or excessive sugar.

  4. Stress and Trauma:

    • Physical trauma (e.g., injury, surgery).

    • Emotional or psychological stress (e.g., grief, anxiety).

    • Chronic stress may dysregulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

  5. Gut Health Imbalances:

    • Dysbiosis or poor gut microbiota diversity.

    • Leaky gut syndrome leading to systemic inflammation.

  6. Immune Dysregulation:

    • Overactive or weakened immune system responses.

    • Chronic low-grade inflammation or autoimmune processes.

  7. Sleep and Lifestyle Factors:

    • Chronic sleep deprivation or irregular sleep patterns.

    • Sedentary lifestyle or overexertion without adequate recovery.

  8. Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR):

    • Some individuals report sensitivity to EMR from electronic devices.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Functional Nutrition

Key Functional Nutrition Strategies:

  1. Individualised Assessment: Identify and address root causes such as food sensitivities, infections, or nutrient deficiencies.

  2. Personalised Diet Plan: Focus on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory, and gut-healing foods.

  3. Lifestyle Interventions: Incorporate stress management, physical activity, and adequate sleep.

  4. Ongoing Monitoring: Adjust interventions based on symptom progression and laboratory results.

By addressing the underlying triggers of CFS and providing the body with the tools it needs to heal, functional nutrition can significantly improve energy levels, reduce symptoms, and enhance overall well-being.

Frequently asked questions by our clients

  • CFS is often associated with impaired mitochondrial function, the energy powerhouses of cells. Functional nutrition supports energy production by:

    • Key Nutrients: Coenzyme Q10, magnesium, B vitamins (especially B12), and carnitine.

    • Antioxidants: Alpha-lipoic acid, N-acetylcysteine, and glutathione to reduce oxidative stress.

    • Foods: Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, and whole grains.

  • Energy crashes and fatigue can be exacerbated by blood sugar imbalances.

    • Focus on Low-Glycemic Foods: Non-starchy vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins.

    • Avoid Refined Sugars and Carbs: These can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes.

    • Timing of Meals: Balanced, regular meals to maintain steady energy levels.

  • Gut dysfunction, including leaky gut syndrome and dysbiosis, is common in CFS and contributes to systemic inflammation.

    Systemic inflammation is a hallmark of CFS and contributes to fatigue and pain.

If you’d like to know more, please get in touch or book in a free call with Lorene by clicking the link below.