Beyond exhaustion

Everyone feels tired once in awhile, but those with chronic fatigue syndrome feel exhausted all the time. Here’s what happens.

By Yuri Elkaim, BPHE, CK, RHN

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) occurs in more than 420,000 Canadians. Although it was believed that women experience CFS more often than men, a study by the University of Sydney revealed that it has nothing to do with age, gender, personality traits or mental health.

Symptoms range from mild fevers to joint pain, but fatigue is the most prevalent symptom of CFS. Triggers of CFS may include persistent viral infections; excessive stress; low adrenal function; a weakened immune system; a pre-existing physical condition (such as cardiovascular disease, multiple sclerosis or diabetes); depression; and/or impaired liver function.

Is it manageable? There’s no cure, however, nutritional measures may be considered. According to Dr. Linda Page, balancing your pH may help overcome yeast overgrowth, which is believed to play a role in chronic fatigue. So try eating more alkaline - forming foods , such as vegetables, beans and nuts. Page reports that alkalizing foods in combination with exercise and deep breathing can bring the body more oxygen, which leads to an increased amount of energy.

Also think about vitamin C supplements. For those with chronic fatigue caused by infections, allergies or stress, vitamin C can aid in healthy adrenal hormone production (which inevitably helps us deal with stress). Health Canada recommends vitamin C at a minimum of 6mg to a maximum 2,000mg per day.

Active living Modest exercise can restore some energy loss. Do note that overexertion in a workout can worsen CFS symptoms, so take your time as you get used to an exercise regime. To understand when your body gets tired, keep a workout journal - write down what you did, how long you did it for and how you felt afterwards. For an easy, calming workout, give tai chi a try. This Chinese practice is a low-impact series of postures or movements performed in a calming, graceful manner.

References
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Basic Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. May 9, 2006.
Stadler-Mitrea, L. Pathology and Nutrition: A Guide for Professionals. CSNN Publishing. 2005.