What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also know as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a severely debilitating disease that affects multiple systems in the body, yet lacks a definitive diagnostic marker or treatment.
While research points to neurological, immune, infectious, muscular, and hormonal abnormalities, the exact cause and underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
In recent years, the gut microbiome has gained significant attention for its potential role in influencing both health and disease, including conditions like depression and ME/CFS.
The Gut-Brain Connection
There are an increasing number of scientific studies demonstrating what many of us already know: there is a strong connection between our gut and our brains.
Recent research from the University of Missouri School of Medicine has identified a connection between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
The study found that found that patients who had IBS, more than 38-percent had anxiety, and more than 27-percent had depression
The authors highlight the importance for healthcare providers to assess and address psychiatric conditions in IBS patients to enhance their overall well-being and quality of life.
And this study hypothesised that lifelong antibiotic use may promote an intestinal microbiota composition that could increase the risk for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Key proposed mechanisms include gut dysbiosis, disrupted gut-brain axis function, increased intestinal permeability (aka Leaky Gut Syndrome), amongst other mechanisms.
Dr. Yezaz Ghouri, senior author and assistant professor of clinical medicine and gastroenterology, explains: "The mesentery membrane that holds the intestines together has one of the largest collections of nerve cells in the body. When those nerves start firing impulses, that can lead to the state of nervousness in and around the GI tract, resulting in IBS symptoms. The resulting decline in patient quality of life can lead to poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking."
Can Leaky Gut cause Chronic Fatigue?
Research, like this study, suggests that leaky gut may be linked to various autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis, as well as conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, arthritis, allergies, asthma, acne, obesity, and even mental health issues.
Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in your Gut not your Head?
Another NIH study adds to the thousands of scientific studies published over the last 40 years.
Similar to earlier research, it reveals that individuals with ME/CFS exhibit identifiable abnormalities in the brain, immune system, energy metabolism, blood vessels, and gut microbiome.
What Deficiency causes Chronic fatigue?
Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals (e.g. B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, C, D, iron, and magnesium) are often linked to unexplained fatigue.
This further strengthens the idea we should look at gut health, particular from an 'absorption' perspective.
How do I fix my Gut-Brain connection?
How can I support my gut-brain axis at home?
Consider any and all of the suggestions below in consultation with your Healthcare Practitioner.
- Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum: Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum (PHGG) is a water-soluble fibre that acts as a prebiotic in the intestinal tract to help support a healthy intestinal ecosystem.
- Prebiotics and Probiotics: Incorporate foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics or start with a combination gut health supplement: Wonder Foods Gut Health Plus.
- Single Ingredient Foods: Only eat single ingredient foods (meat, eggs, etc.).
- Home-Cooked meals: Home-cooked meals using fruit oils (e.g. olive, avocado, coconut, etc.) or animal fats (e.g. lard, ghee, butter, etc.) and no industrial seed oils (canola, sunflower, etc.).
- Elimination diet: Try an Elimination diet to see what foods affect you the most.
Conclusion
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) remains a complex and elusive condition, yet growing research highlights the significant role that gut health may play in its development and management.
From the gut-brain connection to the impact of leaky gut and nutrient absorption, it’s clear that addressing gut health may be a crucial piece of the puzzle for those suffering from CFS.
Incorporating gut-supporting supplements, such as Wonder Foods Gut Health Plus or Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum (PHGG), and adopting a diet rich in prebiotics, probiotics, and single-ingredient whole foods may offer meaningful relief.
As the understanding of CFS evolves, paying attention to both gut health and overall nutrition is vital for those looking to improve their energy levels and overall well-being.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, supplement, or diet, especially if you have a chronic condition like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). The content provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions.
