July 2001
By Dr Peter Berkin

Chronic fatigue syndrome or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is diagnosed when an individual feels tired most of the time, the tiredness usually being worsened by exertion. Because the syndrome sometimes seems to follow a viral infection it is also sometimes called Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome. Other symptoms such as generalised muscle pains, difficulty in mental concentration and painful lymph glands are common. These symptoms should have lasted at least six months and other conditions excluded before a firm diagnosis can be made. Unfortunately there are no specific tests for the illness.

Our understanding of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has grown immensely over the past few years yet we still do not know any single cause for the onset of this debilitating condition. Conventional medicine offers little in the way of effective treatment. However recent research seems to suggest that a Bio-psycho-physiological approach is the way forward.

Put simply this is a holistic means of looking at the social environment, the psychological make-up and the physical nature of the individual. What some might call a mind/body approach. Nutrition and Management of Chronic Fatigue/M.E./ Post Viral Fatigue

An integrated approach to CFS offers the sufferer the best chance of positive change. The Nutritionist holds an important key in the management of CFS as research has shown a close correlation between food allergy/intolerance and the condition. A nutritional approach includes the identification of possible reactions to foods, and a change to the diet so that these foods are avoided, and incoming nutrition maximised.

In addition, other factors are often involved, which can vary in each individual case. These can include impairment to the liver detoxification process and the presence of Candidiasis, a yeast infection affecting a large percentage of the population. Both of these factors can be causal or maintaining factors in CFS and require dietary modification. In clinical trials, supplementation with magnesium, potassium and organic sulphur (MSM) has been proven to be of great benefit to sufferers, so these are recommended as part of a nutritional approach alongside other supplements that may be indicated, particularly chromium, which will help stabilise blood sugar and regulate energy levels. The diet needs to provide optimum levels of nutrition, but even then, the requirements for nutrients in a chronically ill person may well exceed levels obtainable from dietary sources alone.

Hypno-Cognitive Therapy in the Management of Chronic Fatigue

Recent research results suggest that stress is a major contributory factor in the onset and maintenance of chronic fatigue. We also know that stress is caused when the individuals inner self-concept or personal domain is threatened. This can be a physical threat or indeed a threat against personal values and rules of life. Cognitive Therapy is a proven means of realigning unhelpful thinking based on outmoded values and personal domain rules.

The addition of hypnosis and the resulting relaxing properties allows the client to experience inner states of calm that provide much needed release from chronic stress. Within therapy such issues as unrealistic expectations and the undervaluing ones own capabilities are addressed. The process of addressing these issues effectively helps to reduce the contributory factors that may be limiting or delaying recovery from chronic fatigue.

Hypno-Cognitive Therapy is a safe non-intrusive way of finding new beginnings in the process of recovery from chronic fatigue. This form of psychotherapy can be effectively combined with nutritional changes as well as relaxation therapies such as reflexology and massage.