ME/CFS
Myalgic encephalomyelitis, also called chronic fatigue syndrome or ME/CFS is a complex disorder which is poorly understood and under researched.
ME/CFS can range from mild to highly debilitating. It is characterised by extreme fatigue, cognitive dysfunction and post-exertional malaise (PEM) as a defining feature. This means that supporting symptom improvement must be balanced with risks for PEM and worsening the condition.
Key Facts
- ME/CFS is highly complex and there is no treatment. Postural orthostatic intolerance (POTS), mast cell activation (MCAS) and small fibre neuropathy (SFN) are commonly present
- There are a number of key pathways which may be modulated by nutrition and specialised supplements to reduce symptoms. Depending on symptoms, it may help to focus first on one of these – mitochondrial energy production, inflammation and gut health, the cholinergic system and neurotransmitters, or promoting healthy blood flow
- Diet can play a role in managing symptoms and may include a low histamine diet, an anti-inflammatory diet, lower carb/ no sugar diet or avoidance of food triggers such as gluten
- Testing levels of nutrients can help with targeted supplementation. Some of our tests can be carried out at home for those who cannot travel
- Sleep, hormones, adrenal health and thyroid function are all contributing factors to consider
Best Test Options
Advanced Immune Test
Autoimmune Screen Blood Test
Functional Nutritional Profile Blood Test
Amino Acid Profile Blood Test
Whole Blood Nutrient Panel – At Home
Gut Health & Microbiome – GI Ecologix
Organic Acids Test – At Home
Viral Screen – At Home
Patient Story
History
Karen and her daughter Maeve attended remote consultations with our clinic. Maeve had been suffering from ME/CFS for 3 years and was finding it very difficult to attend school due to her extreme fatigue. Maeve had digestive issues and hormonal imbalances which made her fatigue worse in the run up to her period.
Tests
Maeve carried out a gut microbiome analysis which identified very low levels of key beneficial bacteria and high levels of unhelpful bacteria which may have been contributing to her digestive discomfort. Importantly she had low digestive enzyme production which would mean digesting and absorbing her nutrients was more difficult.
Maeve also carried out a DUTCH Comprehensive Hormone test which identified low progesterone, B vitamin deficiencies and low morning cortisol.
Plan
Maeve adopted a ‘easy to digest’ meal plan initially, to take the pressure off her digestion and improve absorption. She added a digestive enzyme supplement. She also adapted her eating plan to eat smaller well-balanced meals more often to support her energy and reduce stress on her body.
Maeve started on probiotics, a multivitamin and a herbal supplement specifically to support hormonal balance and restore B vitamins, essential for stress, hormonal balance and energy.
Outcome
Maeve’s eating plan helped her to get through her school day a little easier. She managed to sit her annual exams which she was delighted with. Her hormonal symptoms improved such that her symptom exacerbation and PEM was lessened each month. Her digestion still needed support and she continued with digestive enzyme support and a high level of probiotics.
“We are really grateful for your guidance. Maeve has been doing better and we hope she will go to college next year.”
