The underlying drivers of fatigue

Only 3% of fatigued patients demonstrate diagnosed pathology as the cause. As disease is so often not one of the causes of fatigue, our natural health Practitioners can help to alleviate this symptom by looking at other potential drivers – nutrition, mitochondrial health, detoxification, thyroid, stress and immune support. By targeting these functional drivers of fatigue, our practitioners can help to optimise energy levels and improve the quality of life of these patients.

Mitochondrial Health
90% of cellular energy is generated in the mitochondria. Mitochondria are known as the ‘cellular powerhouse’. These organells are the major site of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, via the metabolic pathways of the Krebs Cycle (also known as the Citric Acid Cycle), the Electron Transport Chain and Oxidative Phosphorylation. All cell function and physiology depends on efficient production of ATP by these metabolic pathways.

Adequate Nutrition
Low dietary intake of iron, carnitine, lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, magnesium and B vitamins can all contribute to reduced energy production.

Thyroid Function
The thyroid sets the pace for the body’s metabolic rate and is closely related to energy production. Supporting normal, healthy thyroid function in your patients is important in maintaining optimal health. There are many factors that can affect thyroid health and these should be identified and addressed individually. We will test your thyroid function if necessary.

Detoxification
Toxicity from the external environment and lifestyle factors can contribute to fatigue. For example, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) causes the ecology of the small intestine to be overrun with external ‘bad’ bacteria which can contribute to leaky gut and associated symptoms, including fatigue. Detoxification programs and antimicrobial formulas can help to ameliorate this and improve energy levels. Increased oxidative stress caused by toxicity can also reduce mitochondrial function, impairing ATP production.

Stress Management
Overaction of the adrenal glands may result in fatigue and deplete magnesium levels. Stress management and magnesium supplementation play an important role in improving energy as magnesium is required for cellular energy production. How stressed are you? Is this playing a role in your fatigue? Lets have a look at your Adrenal Function.

Immune support
In those patients who are experiencing prolonged fatigue, it is important for us to assess and support immune function. Chronic or recurring infections can cause fatigue, possibly due to the inflammatory affects on the mitochondria in these patients.

If you are experiencing fatigue, let us look for an answer for you. We will investigate and treat any of the underlying causes of fatigue that may be preventing you from bursting with energy! Book your appointment here.