Stress and Fatigue - CFS and ME Flashcards
Q: What do the terms CFS and ME stand for?
A: CFS = Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; ME = Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.
Q: How are CFS and ME different?
A: While often used interchangeably, ME is sometimes defined as CFS with inflammation.
Q: What are common symptoms of CFS and ME?
A: Long-term physical and cognitive fatigue, post-exertional malaise, muscle and joint pain, unrefreshing sleep, flu-like symptoms (e.g., sore throat, tender lymph nodes), and mood disturbances.
Q: What is recognised as a key player in CFS and ME?
A: Mitochondrial dysfunction.
Q: What are some proposed aetiologies of CFS and ME?
A:
Infectious organisms: EBV, human herpes virus-6, Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme’s).
Immunological factors: Increased cytokines, NK cell abnormalities, decreased CD8 suppressor cells.
Abnormal HPAA functioning: Hypocortisolism.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress: Decreased GPO, SOD, and low melatonin.
Q: What do serotonin studies suggest about CFS and ME?
A: Increased 5-HT autoimmune activity activates inflammatory pathways, reduces serotonin levels, and promotes stress-related responses.
Q: How is gut health implicated in CFS and ME?
A:
Gut-brain communication breakdown.
GI symptoms are common.
Findings include increased clostridium and ruminococcus, decreased faecalibacterium, and metabolic endotoxaemia.
Q: How do microbes causing dysbiosis contribute to CFS and ME?
A: They alter the immune system, dysregulate mitochondrial function, and increase neurotoxic byproducts like ammonia and D-lactic acid.
Q: What should be avoided in a natural approach to CFS and ME?
A:
Caffeine: Strains adrenal glands, exacerbating fatigue.
Sugar: Destabilises blood glucose and suppresses immunity.
Artificial sweeteners: Can worsen neurological symptoms.
Alcohol: Worsens symptoms and depletes nutrients.
Q: What foods and nutrients should be included for CFS and ME management?
A:
Essential fatty acids (e.g., omega-3, EPA, DHA).
High-quality protein.
Individualised immune support (e.g., vitamin C, anti-microbials).
GI support (e.g., digestive bitters, probiotics).
Q: How does nutritional ketosis benefit CFS and ME?
A:
Supports mitochondrial function by shifting the body’s primary fuel source to ketones.
Reduces oxidative stress and increases mitochondrial resilience (mitohormesis).
Q: What is a typical macronutrient ratio for a ketogenic diet in CFS and ME?
A: 75% fat, 20% protein, and 5% carbohydrates.
Q: How does liquorice support individuals with CFS and ME?
A:
Restores adrenal cortex function and supports cortisol production.
Reduces fatigue and inflammation.
Q: What is the role of astragalus in managing CFS and ME?
A:
Acts as an adaptogen and immune regulator.
Reduces abnormal cytokine production and promotes immune balance.
