- May 15, 2023

Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Despite our best efforts to find balance in this fast-paced environment, many individuals still struggle with feelings of exhaustion and fatigue. For some of us, all we need is sufficient rest and maintaining a good work-life balance to overcome the struggle. However, there are some people who experience persistent tiredness that cannot be explained or treated through traditional means. There could be a number of reasons why you are feeling constantly exhausted. One possibility is a condition called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). Don't let the medical jargon scare you - understanding the root cause of your fatigue is the first step towards finding relief and returning to your normal state of energy and well-being.

So, what is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?

CFS/ME is a chronic condition that affects the nervous, immune, and energy production systems of the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 24 million people worldwide may have CFS/ME [1]. The syndrome is characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, along with other symptoms such as cognitive dysfunction, muscle pain, and sleep disturbance.

Signs & Symptoms of CFS/ME:

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. CFS/ME is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that other conditions with similar symptoms must be ruled out before a diagnosis can be made. Your doctor may recommend you to undergo blood test, imaging test and other diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions.

How to live with CFS/ME?

While living with CFS/ME can be challenging, there are lifestyle changes you can make to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some tips:

Pace yourself: It is important to avoid overexertion and to pace yourself throughout the day to conserve energy, taking breaks in between to recharge your energy.
Get good sleep: Good sleep is crucial for people with CFS/ME. Establish a regular sleep routine, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and create a comfortable sleep environment.
Manage stress: Stress can worsen the symptoms of CFS/ME. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to help manage stress.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help support your overall health and energy levels. Avoid processed food and eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Consider CoQ10 supplements: A study suggests that supplementing with CoQ10 may help improve CFS/ME symptoms by restoring the low CoQ10 levels [2].

How CoQ10 could assist in the condition?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural antioxidant that every cell in your body needs to produce energy, especially in organs like the heart, liver, muscles, and kidneys. There have been several studies suggesting that CoQ10 may help reduce fatigue, but a recent meta-analysis conducted by Frontiers of Pharmacology provides stronger evidence that shows CoQ10 is an effective and safe supplement for reducing fatigue symptoms.

In the recent meta-analysis conducted by Frontiers of Pharmacology, researchers analyzed 13 randomized controlled trials with over 1,000 participants. Based on the result, it was found that CoQ10 could significantly reduce fatigue score compared to the placebo group. Additionally, the study found that the greater the daily dose and treatment duration of CoQ10 supplementation, the greater the reduction in fatigue score [3].

While more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and efficacy of CoQ10 for CFS/ME patients, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to seek help in identifying the right amount of CoQ10 dosage to manage CFS/ME symptoms.