Chronic fatigue" and chronic fatigue syndrome are two very different issues. 1 in 1000 people would be affected. The WHO has officially recognized Chronic Fatigue Syndrome since 1992. Discover the details of this syndrome as well as ways of thinking about how to accompany it naturally thanks to naturopathy.

IOM diagnostic criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome

(Institute of medicine of the national academies) updated in 2015 

The diagnosis is usually made in the internal medicine department at the hospital.

The following three symptoms are mandatory:
1. Fatiguefor at least 6 months, intense, new or of definite onset, not resulting from continuous overexertion and not improved by rest, with substantial reduction or impairment in the level of personal, occupational or social activities previously performed.
2. Malaise post effort
3. Non-restorative sleep.

And at least one of the following two events:
1. Cognitive impairment
or
2. Orthostatic Intolerance

"To date, there are no biological or organic markers that identify this syndrome. It is a difficult diagnosis that requires exclusion of other diseases responsible for chronic fatigue (e.g., cancer, endocrine diseases, systemic inflammatory diseases, psychiatric diseases, autoimmune diseases...)" (source: French association of chronic fatigue syndrome)

However, it appears that this syndrome is the result of a viral or bacterial infection. 

Conventional treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome.

There is no universal treatment. Physicians then propose targeted drug solutions for each patient. 

Other syndromes associated with chronic fatigue syndrome

Other functional somatic syndromes may be associated with or overlap with CFS. It is important to differentiate them from CFSin order to better treat them:

- Fibromyalgia
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Multiple chemical hypersensitivity syndrome
- Irritable bladder syndrome
- ...

Chronic fatigue syndrome: avenues for naturopathic support

Naturopathy cannot replace a medical treatment prescribed by a doctor. On the other hand, it fits perfectly into a complementary to conventional care in progress or to come. 

The natural health coaching is global and personalized. The tips that are presented are basic values that need to be adapted according to each individual's issues. They remain, however, avenues of thought suggesting hope in improving your overall condition.

Food: your body's fuel.

• Focus on a hypotoxic diet, of organic quality so as not to further exhaust the body in eliminating toxins. 
• Avoid endocrine disruptors: pesticides, hormonal contraceptives, plastic bottled water, non-organic cosmetics, storing and/or reheating food in plastic boxes...
• Focus on a vegetarian-leaning diet. Fruits and vegetables should be raw or undercooked. Limit red meat and dairy products. 
• Beware ofrefined products: white sugar, white flour etc... which have a high glycemic index and have no nutritional value. In addition, they are irritating to the intestinal walls which limits the assimilation of nutrients and are pro-inflammatory. Replace them with gluten-free wholemeal flours and natural sugars (honey, agave syrup, coconut sugar) which are rich in minerals and trace elements.

A quality microbiota for optimal nutrient assimilation

• Do a probiotic cure to reseed gut flora.
• Integrate prebiotics to maintain the microbiota and develop it: fiber-rich diet, kombucha, kefir, lacto-fermented vegetables (sauerkraut)...
• Ban all foods irritating the intestinal mucosa: sugar, gluten, lactose, additives, alcohol, fried foods... 

Spirulina cure to fill deficiencies and restore energy

The spirulina is a spiral algae. It contains a tremendous amount of vitamins, trace elements and bio-assimilable minerals (great source of Iron) as well as quality proteins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It helps to revive the various organic functions and support them. 

Cassis Ribes Nigrum in gemmotherapy to boost adrenals

Afterovertaxing the adrenals to fight emotional or physical stress (bacterial or viral infection), they eventually become fatigued. The blackcurrant bud helps to boost the activity of the adrenal glands, particularly the natural production of cortisol. It acts as a real boost for the body. 

Plant Alternatives: ginger, ginseng, eleutherococcus

These plants are stimulants of the central nervous system and promote blood production. They are also immunostimulant, tonic and are particularly effective in shortening recovery time (accelerated recovery time).

To help you manage your emotions.

• Bach Flower Remedies, Australian Bush
• Mindfulness meditation, relaxation, sophrology...