by Elizabeth Hartland
Chronic fatigue syndrome (also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis [ME], chronic mononucleosis-like syndrome, or chronic Epstein Barr Virus [EBV]) is the name given to a condition in which the host suffers from repeated and recurrent episodes of infection and fatigue.
The syndrome is known to persist for months or even years. Current diagnostic criteria for the confirmation of the condition includes exclusion of other possible disease states, elevated levels of antibodies to the EBV and recurrent episodes of fatigue, sore throats, fever, lymph node swelling, muscle pain, intestinal discomfort, depression, dizziness, mood swings and overreaction to temperature extremes.
Although the cause of the condition is unknown, infection with the EBV is suspected to be the most likely cause. EBV is a member of the herpes group of viruses, which infects the host and results in lifelong infections.
Like the herpes simplex types 1 and 2, the EBV may be latent for many years, kept in check by a normal immune response. However, if the immune system becomes compromised in any way, host resistance declines, enabling the virus to become active.
Factors which can compromise the immune system include nutritional deficiencies, a diet high in sugars, saturated fats and stimulants, stress, smoking, pollution, anaemia, hypothyroidism, poor adrenal function, intestinal infection, sleep problems, toxic overload and allergies.
Unless the factors contributing to a weakened immune system are addressed, there is a likelihood of continuous reactivation of the virus.
This in itself further weakens the immune system, leaving the host open to other conditions such as food intolerance, auto immune diseases and candidiasis.
It is common for those with chronic fatigue syndrome to exhibit symptoms associated with these conditions.
A newly discovered category of viruses may also be the cause
There is a newly discovered category of viruses variously designated by virologists as ‘submicroscopic hijackers’ or ‘pieces of bad news wrapped in protein’. These organisms belong to the viral family known as the retroviruses.
They exhibit persistent pathologies manifesting as debilitating fatigue and flu-like symptoms. Such organisms are now suspected to be partially responsible for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Using their own special enzymes, these retroviruses appear to have the ability to splice themselves permanently into the chromosomes of human cells and turn their back upon the cells (that is what makes them ‘retro’ or ‘reversing’).
Toxins that they create disrupt the infected cells and promote disease symptoms. It appears that there may even be other viral sources of chronic fatigue syndrome besides Epstein-Barr Virus and retrovirus.
They could include cytomegalovirus, human herpes virus 5 and more. Many of these types of infectious viruses already reside in most people but are held at bay by their immune systems.
However, victims of chronic fatigue are shown to possess abnormal immune systems that fail to clear the body of invading viruses or prevent reactivation of latent ones.
The question is whether chronic fatigue syndrome patients are showing the cause or effect of their affliction. Whatever the situation, elimination of these microbes, together with an immune boosting strategy, is of utmost importance in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Diet and lifestyle recommendations
For each individual there is likely to be a combination of many factors that may be contributing to the condition. In such circumstances the best course of action for an individual suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome would be to have a consultation with a qualified nutrition consultant where a full assessment can be made.
In addition to the individual recommendations that would be provided at such a consultation, some basic diet and lifestyle recommendations that may be discussed could include:
• To identify and remove any factors that may suppress the immune function i.e. stress, food intolerance, excess caffeine and/or alcohol.
• To follow a diet that will promote optimal immune function consisting mostly of organic vegetables and fruits, whole grains, seeds, nuts, deep-water fish, pulses, legumes and plenty of fluids like water and herb teas.
• To drink teas brewed from the herbs dandelion, echinacea, goldenseal, cats claw and pau d’arco which are particularly good for the immune system.
• To avoid sugars, saturated fats, stimulants, additives and preservatives.
• To stop smoking and include relaxation exercises in your daily routine every day.
• To relax in a warm bath with essential oils such as lavender and camomile.
• To try skin brushing which helps to stimulate the circulation of lymph around the body. This helps to clear waste and supports immune function.
A supplementation programme to include various herbs and nutrients may also be advised.
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Elizabeth Hartland has a Bachelor of Science Degree in nutrition, together with a Diploma from the Institute of Nutritional Therapy. She is married with two young children and has a passion for good nutrition and helping others to find better health. 282 427 652
